Carrefour Brasil is planning to invest around R$2 billion (€466.5 million) in its operations in the country, with the opening of a number of new stores under different formats.
At least 20 stores operating under the wholesale banner Atacadão, and 30 under the convenience formats Carrefour Market and Carrefour Express will open this year.
The president of the group's Atacadão business, Roberto Müssnich, says that the number of new stores could be greater if opportunities arise, adding that the group is examining the opening of smaller stores in large capitals.
E-Commerce Investment
Carrefour Brasil plans to intensify its investment in food e-commerce, aiming for leadership in this segment. It will also develop new logistics capabilities and expand its ecosystem through partnerships.
Last year, the company tested Scan&Go technology and launched self-checkouts in a number of stores.
Following the rollout of Click & Collect services in all hypermarkets last year, it plans to further develop the service in 2019 with the addition of third-party locations as pick up points and expanding pick-up points to other formats such as Market and Express.
A partnership set up at the end of 2018 with delivery startup Rappi is also attracting new customers and to the group's e-commerce operation. The marketplace has already reached breakeven point, and should turn a profit this year.
Carrefour eBusiness Brasil
The company’s digital transformation gained momentum in 2019 with the creation of the Carrefour eBusiness Brasil (CeBB) platform.
This platform is headed by Paula Cardoso, who will be responsible for implementing initiatives to accelerate the digital transformation of the Carrefour Brasil businesses, including the development of partnerships between startups.
Previously, Carrefour Brasil’s digital initiatives were spread across a number of different departments. This new unit will manage digital initiatives, including start-ups, applications and loyalty programmes, and boost integration between the physical and online channels.
Carrefour Brasil CEO Noël Prioux said that he is optimistic for 2019, forecasting an end of food deflation, an upturn in employment and higher household consumption levels, contributing to further growth and profitability.
© 2019 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Branislav Pekic. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine.
