Amazon has once again been recognized as one of the top employers in the UK for the year 2025. The prestigious Top Employers Institute has certified Amazon as a Top Employer in the UK for the second consecutive year, highlighting the company’s dedication to the development and well-being of its employees across the country. This accolade also marks the third year in a row that Amazon has been acknowledged as one of the Top Employers in Europe. This recognition underscores Amazon’s commitment to providing a positive and rewarding work environment for its employees.
In the UAE, Union Coop has achieved a significant milestone by selling approximately 27,000 tons of fruits and vegetables in 2024. This remarkable achievement, as reported by Mr. Shuaib Al Hammadi, Senior Media Section Manager at Union Coop, represents a substantial increase compared to previous years. Union Coop’s success in sales reflects its strong position in the market and its ability to meet the growing demand for fresh produce in the region.
Portuguese food distribution group Jerónimo Martins has reported record sales in FY 2024, driven primarily by its Polish grocery retailer Biedronka. Jerónimo Martins saw a 9.3% increase in sales, reaching €33.5 billion, a new company record. Biedronka, the key driver of growth, contributed 70.4% to the group’s total revenue with a 9.6% sales increase to €23.6 billion. This impressive performance underscores Jerónimo Martins’ strong market presence and strategic growth initiatives.
In New Zealand, grocery prices rose by 2.7% during 2024, with food price increases partially offset by cheaper fruit and vegetables, which saw an annual decrease of 8%. Lower prices for kūmara, potatoes, and onions contributed to the decline in fruit and vegetable prices. This trend in pricing reflects the dynamic nature of the grocery market and its impact on consumer spending habits.
Meal delivery company Deliveroo in the UK reported robust growth in its final quarter, with gross sales on its platform increasing by 7%. The company’s positive performance was driven by an increase in orders and higher customer spending. Deliveroo expects adjusted core earnings to be towards the upper end of its guidance range and anticipates being free cash flow positive for the year. This success underscores Deliveroo’s position as a key player in the meal delivery industry.
Aldi has announced plans to open two new supermarkets in Ibiza as part of its expansion strategy in the Balearic Islands. With a commitment to growth, Aldi aims to establish five new stores, including the two locations in Ibiza. This expansion reflects Aldi’s ongoing efforts to meet consumer demand and enhance its presence in the region.
Co-op has unveiled an attractive Valentine’s Day Dine in Deal for two, offering members the opportunity to enjoy a main meal, side, and bottle of wine from the retailer’s premium Irresistible range for just £10. This special offer allows customers to save up to £8.85 while indulging in high-quality meal options. Co-op’s Valentine’s Day promotion exemplifies its commitment to providing value and quality to its members.
European discounter Pepco Group reported a decline in sales for its Poundland business in Britain during the Christmas quarter, with underlying revenue falling by 7.3%. This performance highlights the challenges faced by retailers during the holiday season and underscores the need for strategic adjustments to drive growth and profitability.
Italian cooperatives Unicoop Tirreno and Coop Centro Italia are merging to form Unicoop Etruria, a move aimed at creating a more competitive and influential force in the retail market in Central Italy. The merger process has been initiated with approval from both cooperatives’ boards, with member meetings scheduled for February to formalize the changes. Unicoop Etruria will become one of the largest cooperatives in Italy, with over 800,000 members.
Co-op in the UK has launched a search for innovative food and drink suppliers to join its Incubator program, known as The Apiary. This initiative offers exciting new businesses the opportunity to collaborate with Co-op and potentially secure a listing on its shelves. The Apiary program reflects Co-op’s commitment to supporting and nurturing emerging brands in the food and beverage industry.
In the US, Albertsons has announced corporate layoffs in its effort to reduce expenses, with a focus on its corporate and division support workforce. The grocer confirmed that no store-level associates were impacted by the layoffs and stated that some roles would be transferred to individuals in other countries. This strategic move underscores Albertsons’ commitment to optimizing its operations and improving efficiency.
These developments in the retail and grocery industry highlight the dynamic nature of the market and the ongoing efforts of companies to adapt to changing consumer trends and economic conditions. As companies continue to innovate and expand, they are positioning themselves for success in an increasingly competitive landscape.