The Coop Italia merger will create the largest cooperative retail entity in the country. The merged retailers are Coop Adriatica in Bologna, Coop Estense in Modena and Coop Northwest in Reggio Emilia. The new entity would have 4.2bn euros in revenue coming from 334 stores, including 45 hypermarkets.
Meanwhile, Aldi has confirmed that it is currently doing extensive research on the Italian market, but a final decision has not yet been made. Lebensmittel Zeitung reports that Aldi may be focusing initially on the north of the country.
The discounter may consider buying a local retailer, according to the publication. While Aldi typically does not make acquisitions, such a move could significantly shorten the usual lengthy approval procedures and the necessary licenses for retailers.
Discounters don’t have a big share of the Italian retail market, but it has been growing. Lidl Italia, with 570 stores, has posted annual sales growth of 7% over the last five years. The Italian retail market is fragmented, with the top five retailers accounting for only about 20% of sales, while small convenience stores dominate the market.