Up-to-date coverage of the latest events in UK retail.

Aldi eyes French discount chain

German discounter Aldi is eyeing a swoop on French discount chain Leader Chain, according to its owner Casino.

Casino made the announcement as markets closed in Europe on Thursday, confirming it was in discussion with the discounter about selling Leader Chain, as the French supermarket continues its disposal programme in order to free up capital. 

The grocer announced in July it would look to free up over €2bn (£1.76bn) in disposals by the first quarter of 2021, following on from shedding more than €2.5bn (£2.2bn) earlier in the year.