Lidl consolidates its position as the leading discount retailer in France with the completion of the acquisition of 19 supermarkets from the Auchan and Casino chains. The transaction, finalized after receiving unconditional approval from the Competition Authority on September 22, represents one of the German brand's most significant external growth moves in the French market.
with over 33.000 square meters of additional surface area and an average of 1.450 m² per store, the integration strengthens Lidl's presence in strategic areas with high potential, leading to over 1.600 the total number of supermarkets in France. The aim is to ensure that every French citizen can reach a Lidl store in less than ten minutes, consolidating the model of proximity and convenience that characterizes the brand.
«This integration is a new milestone in our development in France – declared John Paul Scally, President of Lidl France –. It reflects our desire to invest in the regions, strengthen our proximity to consumers, and support the teams involved in the transition."
Our employees of the 19 stores They will be integrated into Lidl with an integration and training program lasting at least three months, ensuring employment continuity and professional development according to the group's best standards. While waiting for the renovated stores to reopen, the employees will be temporarily placed in the supermarkets closest to their homes.
The operation is accompanied by a extensive renovation and modernization plan, aimed at aligning the new stores with the Lidl concept, with more welcoming spaces and a shopping experience focused on simplicity and comfort. Each store will feature a "hot spot" section with bread, pastries, and snacks, as well as a fruit and vegetable area located at the entrance.
Le service stations present in eight of the sites will remain operational through dealers. Among the sales outlets involved are strategic locations such as Bordeaux, Lyon, Cannes, Paris, Antibes, Grenoble, and Toulon, confirming a strategy aimed at covering both large urban centers and dynamic peripheral areas. With this operation, Lidl reaffirms its strategy of sustained growth and territorial rooting.
