Mega Image plans to open 8 stores in 2009

The operator of Mega Image supermarkets, Belgian group Delhaize, will invest over 8 million euros next year in expanding the Romanian network by 8 stores, to 48, according to company data. The year 2009 will also see the retailer complete the rebranding of the La Fourmi network, which it took over from Greek investment fund Global Finance this year. The last four La Fourmi stores will be rebranded in the first quarter of next year, and turned into Mega Image stores. The retailer’s plans include network expansion to 50 stores by 2010. The company reported sales worth 93.5 million euros last year, up 32% against 2006, amid a network expansion by five stores in Bucharest. This year, Delhaize’s turnover in Romania could amount to 150 million euros due to the five Mega Image stores opened in Bucharest and to the takeover of the 14-supermarket La Fourmi network. The transaction amounted to 18.6 million euros, according to data from the Belgian group.