French supermarket group Auchan has entered exclusive negotiations to sell 17 supermarkets to German discounter Lidl, completing the transformation of its 266-store network. The deal covers around 500 employees and could complete in Q1 2027 subject to competition approval. Separately, 164 outlets will operate as Intermarché or Netto franchises, 72 are being sold to Les Mousquetaires and 13 will remain under other Auchan formats. (Auchan)