
There will be fewer 365 Discount stores when Salling Group takes over 35 stores from Coop. However, the deal has not been approved by the competition authorities. (Archive photo). Photo: Martin Fyhn Lykke Lladó/Ritzau Scanpix
Salling’s takeover of Coop stores delayed
Over six months ago, Salling Group announced a deal to acquire 35 Coop stores across the country but the process has stalled. The Competition and Consumer Authority’s initiation of a phase 2 investigation, requiring further information, means a decision may only come by May. The deal includes 25 365 Discount stores, five Superbrugsen, three Kvickly, and two incomplete stores. Only five are owned by Coop; the others are on leased premises. Coop’s divestment is part of a cost-saving strategy to shed unprofitable stores, which Salling Group is ready to take over. Most stores will be converted to Netto, with some continuing as Føtex. The transaction’s monetary value hasn’t been disclosed.