French retailer Auchan has said that it will introduce a number of new store concepts in its domestic market next year as it looks to strengthen the profitability of its core hypermarket division.
According to reports in the French press, the group will launch 'Grand Supermarché' stores with sales areas of around 3,500 square metres, 'concept discount' stores, urban hypermarket concept Auchan City, and premium hypermarket Auchan Gourmand.
Meanwhile, the group has opened its first Raduga-format hypermarket is Russia, located in Penza.
Jean-Pierre Zhermen, head of Auchan Russia, said that the total investment in the Penza outlet came to around €3m, with a similar store slated for Kaluga, to be launched before the end of 2009.
