France’s competition authority has approved the sale of 167 Auchan supermarkets and hypermarkets to Intermarché and Netto, allowing one of the biggest supermarket transactions in the country to move forward.
The agreement follows months of discussions after Auchan decided to reduce the number of stores it operates in France. Intermarché, one of the country’s largest supermarket groups, will take over many of the locations, while some stores will operate under the Netto discount banner.
The transfer of the stores will take place gradually during 2026. Some outlets will be renovated and rebranded before reopening under their new names. Customers are expected to see changes over the coming months as the new owners introduce their own product ranges, promotions and store layouts.
The deal will strengthen Intermarché’s position in the French grocery market, giving the retailer a larger network of supermarkets and helping it reach more customers across the country. It will also increase competition with other major retailers, including E.Leclerc, Carrefour, Système U and Lidl.
For Auchan, the sale is part of a wider plan to improve its business by focusing on its strongest stores and investing in areas with the greatest growth potential. Like many European retailers, the company has faced rising operating costs and changing shopping habits in recent years.
The French supermarket sector remains highly competitive, with retailers investing in lower prices, private label products and better customer service. The addition of these stores will give Intermarché more opportunities to grow its market share while expanding its presence in many regions of France.
Industry analysts believe the transaction will reshape the French grocery market and could encourage further consolidation as supermarket groups look for new ways to improve efficiency and remain competitive.