Co-op, a convenience retailer based in the UK, has recently launched its first new store of 2025 in Salford Quays. This new Co-op convenience store is situated in commercial retail space on the ground floor of the Anchorage Gateway, Salford Quays. The location is strategically chosen as it is close to the area’s media, education, and cultural hubs. The store offers a wide range of fresh and healthy produce to cater to the needs of the local community. This launch is part of Co-op’s plans to accelerate convenience growth in the region.

In Italy, the retail trade index experienced a decline in November 2024. According to data from ISTAT, the seasonally adjusted retail trade index saw a 0.4% month-on-month decline in value, with volume falling by 0.6% compared to the previous month. This decline reflects the challenges faced by the retail sector in Italy during that period.

Aldi, a leading supermarket chain, is set to open nine new stores in London in 2025 as part of a £650 million investment in Britain. The supermarket aims to bring unbeatable value to more Londoners by expanding its presence in the capital. Four of the locations that will welcome new Aldi stores include Wimbledon, Fulham Broadway, Caterham, and Orpington. This expansion is part of Aldi’s commitment to investing in the UK market and providing quality products to its customers.

In France, the purchase alliance Francap has joined the international purchase alliance EMD for the procurement of private label products. Francap brings in ten retailers with a total of 2,215 outlets, contributing to a combined consumer sales of 3.5 billion euros. This collaboration will enhance the procurement process for private label products and strengthen the presence of Francap in the retail sector.

VegEase, an innovative brand in India, has turned profitable in the fruits and vegetables segment. The brand focuses on delivering fresh and handpicked fruits and vegetables to customers’ doorsteps through an app-based platform. This unique concept is changing the way consumers purchase fruits and vegetables, emphasizing hygiene and care in the process.

Aldi is expanding its presence in Spain by opening 40 new supermarkets in 2025, with a focus on regions like Andalusia, Madrid, Valencia, and Catalonia. The company also plans to consolidate its presence in the Region of Murcia, and the Balearic and Canary Islands. Additionally, Aldi is lowering prices on essential grocery items in Portugal as part of its ‘Low Prices Forever’ campaign.

Switzerland will see the opening of the first permanent railway station branch by Aldi Suisse in the summer of 2026. The store, located at Basel SBB station, will cater to commuters and feature a curated selection of Aldi products, including fresh and organic items. This initiative aims to provide convenience to customers and enhance the shopping experience at the railway station.

In Turkey, there is ongoing conflict between grocery delivery company Getir and its shareholder, Abu Dhabi state investment fund Mubadala, over a restructuring plan. The resolution of this conflict is crucial for the future of Getir and highlights the challenges faced by companies in the retail sector.

Co-op has announced a new £820,000 sustainability fund for British farmers to support sustainable farming efforts. This fund is part of Co-op’s long-term investment in UK agriculture and demonstrates the retailer’s commitment to promoting sustainable practices in the farming industry.

In the US, the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) increased by 0.4% in December 2024, with the index for fruits and vegetables declining by 0.1% over the month. This data reflects the fluctuations in consumer prices in the US market, particularly in the fruits and vegetables sector.

Walmart has named Dave Guggina as the US chief e-commerce officer, replacing Tom Ward. Guggina, who previously served as the Executive Vice President of Supply Chain, will now lead Walmart’s e-commerce operations in the US. Ward will take on the role of chief operating officer of Sam’s Club, Walmart’s warehouse chain.

PepsiCo has completed the acquisition of Siete Foods for $1.2 billion, expanding its portfolio of better-for-you products. Siete Foods, known for its authentic Mexican products, offers a variety of items such as tortillas, sauces, snacks, and cookies at retailers nationwide. This acquisition aligns with PepsiCo’s commitment to providing healthier options to consumers.

In a legal battle, the Federal Trade Commission has sued PepsiCo, alleging price discrimination that raises costs for consumers. The lawsuit claims that PepsiCo provided more favorable prices to a major retail partner, resulting in anti-competitive behavior. PepsiCo denies the allegations and views the lawsuit as politically motivated.

Overall, these developments in the retail sector showcase the dynamic nature of the industry, with companies making strategic investments, expanding their presence in new markets, and addressing sustainability challenges to meet the evolving needs of consumers worldwide.