Europe roundup: Results round-up and tech developments

The Spanish regional player Bon Preu, present in Catalonia, continues its success in the region. The retailer announced a growth in sales of 8% in 2025 compared to 2024. Bon Preu has a strong commercial model, during 2025 it invested in further expansion throughout Catalonia, renovation of existing stores to incorporate new services and departments, and strengthening logistics. Its online channel achieved a coverage of six million people, by expanding its collection points across Catalonia to 30. Bon Preu is expected to continue to focus on online growth, hoping to start construction of a logistics warehouse in Montblanc between July and August 2026, for completion in 2028.

Senior Insight Analyst, Lucy Beaumont’s view: Bon Preu continues to innovate in Catalonia, it’s an innovate retailer, who has invested over €1.3 billion over the last 10 years. Throughout this year the retailer has already launch four new stores, two Bon Preu and two Esclat. Bon Preu benefits from its local presence and has created an impressive reputation in the region, checkout our visit to Barcelona.

New hybrid stores open in Geneva and Herisau

Migros is set to open a new store in Geneva on July 2 that will operate on Sundays and public holidays times when it would typically remain closed. The site will run autonomously on these days, with no staff present. Spanning 300 sqm, the store will offer its full range of more than 5,000 everyday consumer products. Customers will be able to access the store using a Cumulus card or a debit or credit card. To support the unmanned operation, a network of sensors and surveillance cameras will provide continuous monitoring, with alerts triggered in the event of any incident. A similar concept is opening on the same day in Herisau, eastern Switzerland. However, its self-service mode will not be restricted to Sundays or public holidays. Instead, customers can access the store via smartphone after 7pm Monday to Saturday.

Insight Analyst, Linda Haden’s view: The opening of Migros’ first hybrid supermarkets builds on its earlier trials of 24/7 “Migros Teo” micro-stores introduced across Switzerland from 2022. Having determined the format works better in rural areas after test runs in Zurich, Migros has evolved the concept into a larger-format solution that better aligns with growing urban consumer expectations for round-the-clock convenience. Crucially, the hybrid model allows Migros to navigate Switzerland’s strict labour laws, which prohibit Sunday retail trading. By offering seamless, tech-driven convenience, Migros positions itself as a leader in Swiss retail, keeping younger, tech-savvy demographics from drifting to competitors. This move also allows Migros to optimise sales per sqm while enhancing their understanding of customer weekend behaviour through technology.

Lidl launches Scan & Go in Switzerland

To mark five years since the launch of the Lidl Plus app, Lidl is rolling our Scan & Go functionality to stores across the country. Following a successful pilot, the technology is already live in over 20 stores across the country, bringing even more convenience to the shopping experience.

Senior Insight Analyst, Michel Pearson’s view: Swiss shoppers are continually seeking convenience in their shopper journey, and many retailers in the market are adapting stores and introducing technology that helps them achieve this. Lidl has been rolling out upgraded self-checkouts in new stores, and offering Scan & Go is another step towards offering an easy and seamless experience to its shoppers.

Jumbo tests agentic AI to transform the online shopper experience

Dutch supermarket retailer Jumbo has launched a pilot of its ‘Agentic Shopping Assistant’ to help online grocery shoppers find inspiration, discover recipes and build shopping baskets through a conversational chat experience. The assistant allows shoppers to specify preferences and dietary requirements, such as organic, vegetarian or gluten-free products, and add recommended items directly to their basket with a single click.

Insight Partner, Dan Butler’s view: this will help to make grocery shopping faster, more personalised and more convenient, helping shoppers discover relevant products while reducing the effort needed to plan meals. The initiative also positions Jumbo to build valuable AI expertise that can be used to improve operational efficiency across stores and distribution centres.

What to read next: Lidl and Kaufland full year results.

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