Europe roundup: latest retailer results, sustainability and value

In this instalment, our analysts for Europe offer their take on some of the region’s latest developments and initiatives. Here’s what you need to know about:

• New retail alliances under scrutiny in France

• Carrefour launches tiered pricing

• Coop Switzerland reports strong FY25

• Rossmann sees 8.5% growth in 2025

• Jumbo Supermarkten commits to more sustainable feed across meat supply chains 

New retail alliances under scrutiny in France

The newly formed retail alliances Aura (Intermarché, Auchan, Groupe Casino) and Concordis (Carrefour, Coopérative U, RTG) are being assessed by the French competition authority. The goal will be to consider the economic benefits alongside the competitive harm these may bring. Results on the two, which will be analysed separately, are not planned until the end of the year for Aura, and 2027 for Concordis.

Senior Insight Analyst, Michela Pearson’s view: retail alliances were investigated by the European Commission in 2023, finding that they increase competition and were beneficial in providing better value to shoppers. There is no reason to believe the findings of the French competition authority will differ in this case, with no immediate change in the short term. Aura has also joined purchasing group Everest (which Coopérative U left in 2024). In future, should one or more of the retail alliances become significantly bigger than they are, they may be called to prove again that they are pro-competition and still benefitting shoppers.

Read about European retail alliances in our recent report.

Carrefour launches tiered pricing

In Belgium, Carrefour has introduced a new tiered pricing system that offers shoppers automatic volume-based discounts on 200 essential products. A single product can be purchased at the regular price, with shoppers receiving 5% off the price when they buy two items and 10% off when they buy three or more. Products included in the scheme include both private label and brands such as Materne apricot compote and Coca Cola light. The retailer is also relaunching its Croc’Prix initiative, using a character to highlight low prices and promotions in-store and online.

Senior Insight Analyst, Rachel Sibson’s view: Carrefour’s introduction of tiered pricing is a clear push to strengthen its value position, giving shoppers simple, savings that encourage larger baskets. This comes at a time when price clarity and savings remain top priorities for households, making the offer both timely and easy to communicate. The relaunch of Croc’Prix further amplifies this value message by spotlighting consistently low prices and strong promotions across the store. Together, these moves reinforce Carrefour’s commitment to accessible pricing and sharper in‑store navigation as budgets remain under pressure.

Explore more value-driven inspiration from around the world here.

Coop Switzerland reports strong FY25

The Swiss retailer recorded sales of over CHF 35 billion (EUR 35.7bn), of which 21.1bn (EUR 22.6bn) came from the retail business (up 2.3% year-on-year). Online in particular saw growth of over 10%, highlighting the continuous trend of Swiss shoppers seeking a rapid and convenient shopping experience. Leadership changes are currently taking place, with new heads of trading business unit and head of logistics and production business.

Senior Insight Analyst, Michela Pearson’s view: the retailer is entering 2026 with a robust strategy and plans to maintain its strong market share, continuing to battle against market leader Migros. Its particular focus on value, private label and sustainability and the new leadership team members will help it build on the success seen in recent years. For more details on the strategy, ready the Switzerland Country Presentation.

Rossmann sees 8.5% growth in 2025

German-based health and beauty retailer Rossmann reported a turnover of €16.6 bn in 2025, an 8.5% year-on-year increase. In Germany, Rossmann’s sales increased 6.1% to €10.5 bn. Its international business, which includes operations in Poland, Hungary, Turkey, Spain, Switzerland, Czechia, Albania and Kosovo, saw a 13% increase in sales to €6.1 bn.

Senior Insight Analyst, Rachel Sibson’s view: Rossmann’s impressive 2025 results underline the continued appeal of its value-drive health and beauty offer with strong growth across Germany and expansion in international markets. The retailer plans to invest €613m in 2026 and open 342 new stores. This signals its intent to accelerate this momentum and build its competitive edge against health and beauty competitors and grocery retailers pushing further into health and beauty categories.

Jumbo Supermarkten commits to more sustainable feed across meat supply chains 

Jumbo is rolling out more sustainable feed practices, including sustainably sourced soy, across its pork and chicken supply chains. With this shift, which is expected to cut CO2 emissions by 14% in pork and 35% in chicken, Jumbo becomes the first Dutch retailer to apply a sustainable-feed strategy in both meat categories. The initiative aligns with Jumbo’s 2050 climate neutrality targets and reflects the retailer’s ambition to address Scope 3 emissions through closer collaboration with key suppliers. Overall, it is expected to contribute 2% toward Jumbo’s overall emissions reduction goal.

Supply Chain Analyst, Soline Duriez’s view: reflecting a broader trend of retailers increasingly focusing on tackling Scope 3 emissions, Jumbo’s commitment is a strong step in the right direction. The move aligns with similar sustainability pushes across Europe, signalling that retailers are increasingly willing to adapt their practices to meet long-term climate goals.

 

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