BELGIUM: Ahold - Delhaize merger could be finalized this month | Progresiv
According to sources close to the deal, the Dutch Ahold and Belgian Delhaize merger could be finalized this month. The deal will not lead to store closures as there is very little geographical overlap between both companies. 
The sources say that its new corporate structure will help save between 300 to 700 million euros on a yearly basis, according to press agency Bloomberg. The cost-saving measures would take place in several branches like its purchase branch, logistics, administration and main offices. No meaningful closures would be required as both companies stay clear of each other geographically, both in the US and in Europe.
The merger would only consist of share exchange, with no money being paid to either party. The current topic is apparently who will be on the board of directors.
On 12 May, Ahold and Delhaize admitted that they were talking, after rumours had surfaced about possible talks. Negotiators on both sides are said to be optimistic about the current state of affairs, but whether the merger will actually happen is still something that remains to be seen. Both Ahold and Delhaize have refrained from any comment on the matter. (www.retaildetail.eu)
