Carrefour is adapting its operations to changing shopping patterns by investing heavily in smaller urban stores. The French retailer has recognised that today’s consumers prefer convenience, quick access, and local shopping over large, out-of-town hypermarkets.
The company is expanding its Express and Market formats, designed to serve high-density residential areas and business districts. These smaller stores offer a curated selection of essentials while maintaining Carrefour’s signature quality and brand mix.
This strategic move aligns with wider European retail trends. Consumers increasingly make smaller, more frequent purchases, valuing proximity and flexibility. For Carrefour, this shift represents an opportunity to reinforce brand presence while maintaining operational efficiency.
The future of grocery retail may rely less on scale and more on smart localisation — bringing stores to the consumer rather than the consumer to the store.