25.01.2026 08:20
Belgium-based supermarket chain Colruyt has decided to withdraw from the French market due to intense competition and rising costs, with the majority of its 105 stores being transferred to rival retail chains. As a result of the sales transactions, it is planned that 2,080 employees will continue their roles under the new store owners.
The Belgium-based supermarket chain Colruyt has decided to withdraw from the French market due to intense competition and rising costs. The company, known for its low-price policy, was unable to achieve sustainable profitability in France, where it entered in 1998.
CEASING OPERATIONS
Colruyt management stated that the challenging market conditions and tough competitive environment were decisive in this decision, thus initiating the process to end the company's 28-year operations in France.
105 STORES TO BE TRANSFERRED TO COMPETITORS
Most of Colruyt's 105 stores located across France will be transferred to rival retail chains. According to the sales plan, 81 stores will go to Intermarché, 14 stores to Leclerc, 3 stores to Carrefour, and 2 stores to Super U. The company announced that it has signed an agreement with social partners that holds a majority stake regarding these sales and that it anticipates compensation above the usual legal limits in the French retail sector. It was reported that the agreement has also been approved by the company's management.
HUNDREDS OF EMPLOYEES WILL CONTINUE AT NEW STORES
As a result of the sales transactions, it is planned that 2,080 employees will continue their roles under the new store owners. However, the inability to find buyers for the headquarters located in Rochefort-sur-Nenon near Dole and some logistics facilities has created a negative outlook in terms of employment. A company spokesperson stated in an interview with Agence France-Presse that this situation would lead to 704 employees becoming unemployed.