Delhaize acquires 325 Belgian stores to ‘re-unite family’

Delhaize has acquired Delfood and its 325 stores from the louis delhaize group. The deal finally unites two different companies that were founded by the Delhaize brothers, but that have always been rivals.

Brand continues separately

The acquisition encompasses all 325 stores supplied by Delfood, both from the louis delhaize chain and those using other brand names, as well as the logistics services and the Belgian headquarters. All operations will continue, and the Louis Delhaize brand will be retained as a separate brand. With this move, Delhaize strengthens its position in the Belgian retail market, particularly in the convenience segment. In 2024, the retailer held a market share of 22.59 %.

“We are confident that we can further develop the potential of louis delhaize stores and independent partner stores, creating growth together with the experienced staff and branches of Delfood. This is also a nod to history, as this agreement reunites two companies with the same name and founded by the same family after more than 150 years”, Delhaize CEO Xavier Piesvaux said. Louis Delhaize was established in 1875 by a brother of Delhaize’s founders, though no actual economic ties existed between the companies until now.

According to Louis Delhaize, selling Delfood to Delhaize is “the best option to secure the company’s future and its staff, ensuring its development.” In recent years, the group has divested nearly all its retail activities: Match, Smatch, and Delitraiteur were sold to Colruyt Group, leaving only seven Belgian Cora hypermarkets remaining.

The transaction is subject to approval by the Belgian Competition Authority. Delhaize aims to complete the acquisition by the end of this year.