Lidl

The major Belgian supermarket chains have lower profit margins than five years ago, and that is before Dutch Jumbo is set to disrupt the market even more. The reason is clear: the competition gets tougher and discounts, meant to lure more customers, cut the profitability.

In Germany, Lidl is attacking its closest competitors in a remarkable advertising campaign. But Netto and Edeka, among others, have their answers ready…

German discounter Aldi has its eyes set on London after a successful test with a proximity store in Balham. Just ten days ago, arch rival Lidl also announced a plan to conquer London.

Lidl is reducing its online product range. In at least two countries, the German discounter is closing its online wine shop. The chain thinks delivery costs for wine are too high, compared to the income it generates.

A trial project in which Belgians can get their Lidl groceries delivered at home by a bike courier, is a great success - the chain says. The project is expanded with more available products and (later) to more cities, but there is a price to pay.

Discount retailer Aldi has adjusted the pricing strategy for its domestic market: the current low fixed prices for certain products will be raised, so that promotions on A-brand products can be expanded.

Lidl's top executive Jesper Hojer will suddenly be replaced by Italian Ignazio Paterno. Hojer only spent two years at the helm of the discount retailer.