Delhaize to join European buying group Coopernic

Delhaize Group said Monday that it would join Coopernic, the European buying alliance headed by French retailer E. Leclerc, in January.

Italian retailer Coop Italia is also expected to join the group in October, Delhaize said. Brussels-based Delhaize said the three organizations in Coopernic will share expertise in private brand innovation and development; commercial terms with international suppliers; and synergies in nonfood procurement.

Coopernic in an earlier incarnation fell apart a year ago when German retailer Rewe Group departed, according to reports.