Ahold Delhaize has announced that Delhaize, its business in Belgium, will acquire 324 outlets from the Louis Delhaize Group which are supplied by Delfood.

The move unites two companies that were founded over 150 years ago by two brothers from the same family.

Netherlands-headquartered Ahold Delhaize said that under the agreement it will take over all Louis Delhaize’s points of sale in Belgium as well as those supplied by Delfood logistics services.

Ahold Delhazie said it intends to expand its position in the Belgian retail market, especially in the convenience sector.

The acquisition, which is expected to close by the end of the year, is subject to regulatory to approval from the Belgian Competition Authority (BCA).

The Louis Delhaize brand is part of the transaction and will continue to exist after the acquisition is completed.

Delfood's logistics activities and head office will remain unchanged and will manage Louis Delhaize's activities without change.

“With this acquisition, Delhaize can strengthen its position in the Belgian food retail market and can make its food and fresh expertise available to the Louis Delhaize points of sale,” said Xavier Piesvaux, brand president of Delhaize. “We are convinced that we can further develop the potential of these Louis Delhaize and independent points of sale and together create growth with Delfood’s experienced associates and affiliates.”

He continued: “It is also a nice nod to our history: after more than 150 years of existence, this agreement brings together two companies that bear the same name and originated from the same founding family.”

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