The French Competition Authority has approved Lidl’s acquisition of 19 Auchan Supermarché outlets and 8 adjoining service stations without imposing any conditions.
Lidl, a subsidiary of the German Schwarz Group, operates a chain of supermarkets offering food and everyday consumer products, including cosmetics and cleaning items. The transaction, notified to the Authority on 20 August 2025, involves the takeover of predominantly food retail stores under the Auchan Supermarché brand and associated fuel service stations.
In its review, the Authority assessed whether the acquisition could reduce price competition or consumer choice at the local level. The analysis concluded that the deal is unlikely to harm competition, noting that Lidl will maintain limited market shares in the affected areas and that sufficient alternatives will remain available to consumers. The transaction is also not expected to impact competition in the retail fuel market.
The approval reflects ongoing consolidation in the mass retail sector, while ensuring that competitive dynamics and consumer choice are preserved in local markets.
