Ahold Delhaize, led by CEO Frans Muller, continues to explore acquisition opportunities in the U.S. and European markets. In the Kitty Koelemeijer podcast, he highlights the fragmented American market and sees potential for consolidation there. Ahold Delhaize invests €2 billion annually as part of its Growing Together strategy, which focuses on investments in stores and technology.
Recent activities include the acquisition of Romanian retailer Profi and the complex deal involving Fresh Direct. There are also rumours of ongoing talks with Carrefour. Muller's strategy focuses on increasing market share, volume, and sales by 4% over four years, with an emphasis on expanding private-label products to reach a 45% share.
In the U.S., online sales have reached a penetration rate of 8.8%, but are "still loss-making." Muller underscores the importance of omnichannel profitability as a key driver of customer retention.
Source: Ktty Koelemeijer podcast, Distrifood
