Point of view: Faced with the weight of manufacturer-distributors, the question of market access for processors arises

The year 2024 was marked by a wave of concentration within the French retail sector, leading it to move closer to the models of Northern Europe. Inflation has strengthened the position of manufacturer-distributor chains with pricing policies. This is further disqualifying market access for pork processors within the industry.

In 2024, more than 90% of purchases of charcuterie and pork meat were made through supermarket channels. However, the year was marked by a large number of mergers, leading to market concentration.

Concentration of food retailing : towards alignment with Northern Europe

Cumulative food inflation, which stood at 22% at the end of 2024 compared with January 2022, has had a profound effect on purchasing behaviour. In 2024, despite inflation slowing to 1.1% year-on-year, food prices remained under pressure. This has led to adjustments in retailers’ pricing strategies and changes in market share. The retail sector has embarked on a phase of consolidation, marked by a number of significant acquisitions. The Carrefour group acquired 175 Cora and Match shops, strengthening its position in north-eastern France. In addition, the takeover of 300 Casino shops by Auchan, Intermarché and Carrefour represents a major step in the reorganisation of the market, with the aim of rationalising and increasing competitiveness. Finally, the Schiever group recently ended its