Dia France’s stores in Paris attract interest from Auchan, Systeme U, and Marks& Spencer
The sale of 12 Paris-located stores operated by food retailer Dia France is understood to have attracted the interest of major food retailers, French daily Le Figaro reported. The unsourced report claimed that UK group Marks & Spencer, via its M&S Food unit, and French groups Auchan and Systeme U are interested in acquiring the business. French retailer Casino is not expected to take part in the auction because the acquisition would raise competition issues, the report added.
The report went on to say that another five stores located in the cities of Lyon, Marseille and Lille could also lead to a fierce battle between bidders.
The French competition authority recently authorised the takeover of Dia France by Carrefour on the condition that the latter divest 50 Dia stores and end franchise contracts with a further six; 12 of the stores to be let go are located in Paris.
Le Figaro