Alexandre Bompard, CEO, shares that he receives phone calls
Carrefour-Ahold Merger Rumors Resurface Amidst Strategic Shifts
Carrefour, the French retail giant, faced inquiries about potential merger talks with Ahold Delhaize during its annual general meeting. These discussions were initially reported in late-2024, with Ahold Delhaize reaching out for a possible acquisition.
The annual gathering, held at the company's headquarters in Massy on May 28, 2025, saw union delegates express concerns about the group's vulnerability given the current market valuation and industry consolidation trends. The exchange focused on strategic opportunities or alliances, given Carrefour's past recognition as a potential target or ideal partner.
Merger Prospects Remain Dim
Alexandre Bompard, Carrefour's CEO, refrained from providing clarity on negotiations with the Dutch company, citing confidentiality. However, he praised the company's appeal and pointed to increased interest as an indicator of Carrefour's current strength and future potential.
Bompard mentioned several discussions with various parties, demonstrating a renewed interest in Carrefour. Despite not revealing specific parties, he emphasized that the French retailer was now a valuable asset being courted by potential suitors.
Carrefour Stock Struggles
Struggling shareholders have questioned Carrefour's stock market performance, with the shares falling below €15, significantly lower than their millennium peak of €80. Comparisons with industry titan Walmart, whose stock has surged by 291% over the past ten years, have raised unease among investors.
Alexandre Bompard expressed admiration for Walmart's success and highlighted the distance between competitors' stores in the US as a contributing factor. He admitted that Carrefour must perform better to improve its stock price, a sentiment echoed by dissatisfied shareholders.
Carrefour's Strategic Shifts
Despite no official news about a takeover bid, Carrefour plans to revise its strategic assets and explore partnerships or sales to boost its market value. Bompard asserted that Carrefour is currently regaining market share and achieving historic financial performance.
A significant investment plan of €150 million in renovating stores and logistics tools has also been announced. This move comes after the integration of several stores and sales points, aiming to bring the network up to standard.
With trade wars having minimal impact on the retail sector, Bompard suggested a certain level of safety for investors. This reassurance may allay concerns amidst ongoing speculation and uncertainty about Carrefour's future.
Investors and union delegates question Carrefour's strategic moves in the manufacturing industry, especially its financial stability in the retail sector compared to competitors like Walmart. Despite the struggling stock price, Carrefour's CEO, Alexandre Bompard, asserts that the company is actively seeking partnerships or sales within the business sector, aiming to boost its market value through strategic asset revisions and investments in retail stores and logistics tools.
