The sale of 101 Colruyt supermarkets in France is entering its decisive phase. The Belgian group has in fact started the final straight line of the sale process, attracting the interest of numerous players in large-scale distribution. Among these, the names of E.Leclerc and Intermarché stand out, which according to sources close to the dossier would be the only two candidates left in the running for the acquisition.
Other operators in the sector have also reportedly analyzed the dossier, but have been excluded from the final stages of the negotiations. The decision could come as early as next week, with an official announcement expected soon.
The operation represents a strategic step for both brands still in the running: for Leclerc, it would mean further strengthening its leading position on the French market; for Intermarché, on the other hand, the acquisition would contribute to consolidating its proximity network. Colruyt, active in France since 1997, has decided to divest its distribution network in the country to focus on its core activities in Belgium and on new projects in selected markets.
