7-Eleven: expanding at a cost

7-Eleven has announced a Q4 net loss of $11.5 million compared to a gain of $17.1 million for Q4 2001. Despite this, the outlook for the company remains strong for 2003. As it continues to improve efficiency and expand, 7-Eleven must take care not to stretch resources too thinly.

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A tough Christmas beckons for retailers, but the worst may already be over

There is no doubt that 2005 has been a dreadful year on the high street and as the festive season approaches, most retailers are extremely cautious about their prospects. However, while the economic news has been highly discouraging for those retailers awaiting an upturn in their fortunes, according to retail specialists Verdict there may soon be light at the end of the tunnel ...

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A&P: vintage grocer loses its frills

Following A&P's Q2 loss of $144.7 million, the company is turning to budget-conscious shoppers to boost flagging sales. Its new Food Basics 'mini-supermarkets' take their concept from the increasingly popular dollar stores. However, Food Basics will only pose competition for the likes of Wal-Mart if A&P can maintain low prices and consistent product availability.

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Ahold touted as rumored Tesco target

Tesco shares fell three pence to 315p yesterday amid market rumours that the company may make a significant acquisition in Europe. Brokers are reported by The Times to have been unconvinced by suggestions that the retailer will join with Kohlberg Kravis Roberts to bid for Ahold, with others suggesting Carrefour as a more credible target.

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Ahold/Delhaize: a merger of convenience

Dutch retailer Ahold and smaller rival Delhaize are in talks, with a merger between the two seen by many as the most plausible outcome. Ahold's and Delhaize's business operations may well be split along geographical lines, with Ahold running a future European division while Delhaize could affect the turnaround of Ahold's underperforming US arm.

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Ahold/Peapod: bricks, clicks and groceries

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Ahold/Peapod: getting the green into the black

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Ahold: breaking up is hard to do

Against a backdrop of stagnating sales, troubled retailer Ahold has come under pressure from two hedge funds, Centaurus and Paulson. Holding a 6.4% stake in the company, the two shareholders claim that the current share price of E7.33 could rise to E9, if the group were broken up into its separate units - a prospect that now appears increasingly real.

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Ahold: catching up Carrefour

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Ahold: getting a hold on Scandinavia

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