Albert Heijn losing ground to rivals

Dutch supermarket chain Albert Heijn is suffering under the growth of other chains like Jumbo and Lidl, according to quarter figures from mother company Ahold. Profits at Ahold dropped from €206 to €147 million last quarter while turnover dropped more than four percent to 7.4 billion, the NOS reports. Stores are competing, which means that Albert Heijn is losing out on other chains attracting more shoppers. Jumbo's figures for the half year were published yesterday. Their turnover grew more than the market average, with 3.4 percent to just over €3.76 billion. Ahold chief Dick Boer says that competition is growing fiercer. Albert Heijn's turnover dropped 1.7 percent, especially because shoppers spent less per visit. The World Cup also didn't do much to increase figures. Ahold says that it is increasing investment into the shops to make them more attractive for clients. Ahold is successful online, however. Bol.com and Albert Heijn Online grew in turnover with almost 18.6 percent. Belgium is also a good market for Ahold, where the Albert Heijn stores are growing strongly.