17:21 - 25.10.2024

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October 25, Fineko/abc.az. French company Auchan is considering two scenarios for the sale of a subsidiary that operates a chain of stores in Russia.

ABC.AZ reports with reference to Kommersant that the first implies the transfer of the main asset to local management.

The second option involves selling the network to a large retail operator. Lenta, X5 Group and Magnit are considered among potential buyers.

Representatives of Lenta and X5 Group declined to comment, Magnit denied information about negotiations on the acquisition of Auchan's Russian assets.

One of the interlocutors of Kommersant believes that if a retailer operating in Russia becomes the owner of the network, all stores under the Auchan brand will most likely switch to its brand. However, the new owner may have problems with approving the transaction in the Federal Antimonopoly Service (FAS), since according to the new rule, retail chains cannot occupy more than 25% of the market in the regions.

On October 24, French La Lettre and Le Figaro reported, citing their sources, about Auchan's likely departure from Russia, noting that the deal is at the final stage.

According to La Lettre, retail has already found a "local buyer" for its Russian divisions. Le Figaro confirmed this information, adding that Auchan is currently choosing between two potential buyers, whose names have not been disclosed.

Auchan itself declined to comment on "market rumors", without confirming or denying information about a possible deal.