While hypermarkets have long dominated the landscape of mass distribution in France, their model now seems to be called into question. According to experts, very large stores of more than 8,000 m² are struggling to retain their customers…

ESTELLE MIDI

05/11/24

We see that consumers are increasingly deserting these large stores. The reason is simple: time spent in stores has become a priority for buyers.

Stores of 20,000 m² or more, considered too large, are gradually losing their appeal. Consumers prefer more compact formats such as mini-markets; where they can do their shopping more quickly while enjoying a much more pleasant shopping space.

Not all hypermarkets are in the same boat…

Mid-sized hypermarkets : between 8,000 m² and 10,000 m², seem better adapted to new expectations. They manage to reconcile the complete food offer with: butcher’s department, fishmonger, fruits & vegetables.

Although very large surfaces are weakened, they still represent 8% of market share. It remains to be seen whether they will be able to adapt in the years to come in the face of growing competition from local formats.