Metro Group has reported a 3.6% sales decrease to €65.5bn (£59bn) in 2009.

EBIT before special items declined 8.9% to €2.02bn (£1.82bn). In Germany, group sales declined 0.6%, while overseas sales declined 5.5%adjusted for negative currency effects, international sales increased 0.7%. In Asia and Africa, sales increased 4.8%.

The group has also announced split roles for the group’s Cash & Carry division, with Joël Saveuse taking charge of Europe/MENA and Frans Muller heading Asia and new markets.