Alliance Boots has struck a deal with Carrefour that will see it develop the grocer’s global beauty operation.

The deal will leverage the global presence of Carrefour and the beauty knowledge of the Boots contract manufacturing (BCM) business to build Carrefour’s beauty category. BCM is part of the Alliance Boots company and shares its manufacturing expertise with several consumer goods companies to develop and manufacture ranges.

The two retailers will also explore healthcare partnership opportunities in emerging countries.

Lars Olofsson, Carrefour chief executive said: “This new partnership with Boots is a major step forward for Carrefour. It will allow us to make a quantum leap in the beauty category. This partnership will significantly enhance Carrefour’s attractiveness in a key category and should be a major contributor to becoming the preferred retailer.”

Alex Gourlay, chief executive, Health & Beauty division, Alliance Boots, said: “We are delighted to have established this partnership in beauty care between Carrefour and our company. As we investigate healthcare possibilities together in emerging markets, we look forward to creating more opportunities for both organisations.”