ZAANDAM, THE NETHERLANDS - Ahold Delhaize is refreshing its store portfolio as it begins the conversion of 38 DEEN locations. The stores were scooped up in a recent acquisition by Ahold banner Albert Heijn, which was completed in partnership with Vomar Voordeelmarkt and DekaMarkt. The stores being converted are located in Noord-Holland, Flevoland, Gelderland, and Overijssel, and will become Albert Heijn locations. The first store will open in Avenhorn on September 22.

“I’m proud of the fact that we were able to achieve this transaction with the three partners so we can serve the DEEN customers in the best possible way together with DekaMarkt, Vomar, and Albert Heijn,” Wouter Kolk, CEO of Ahold Delhaize Europe and Indonesia, said. “Hereby a warm welcome to our new colleagues.”

The intention of DEEN to sell these supermarkets was announced on February 16, 2021, and approved by the Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets on July 9, 2021. A press release explained that financial details have not been released and group financial guidance remains unchanged.

Marit van Egmond, CEO of Albert Heijn, also added a comment on the matter in Ahold’s recent press release.

“Albert Heijn and DEEN are cut from the same cloth,” said van Egmond. “We both have been household names in many Dutch homes for generations–DEEN for 88 and Albert Heijn for almost 135 years. Indeed, it is an honor that we have been mandated to continue operations at the 38 DEEN stores, the flower shop, and the distribution center. This is a major boost to our desire to always be there for our customers, no matter where they need us, including in Noord-Holland where most DEEN stores are located. I look forward to working with our new colleagues.”

How might this acquisition support Ahold’s Stateside plays? Keep an eye out for ANUK as we report.

Ahold Delhaize