Action, Normal, Netto, Noz, Lidl, Aldi… Alongside the classic mass retail chains, France has seen the emergence of a number of cheap stores since the early 1990s, imposing the “hard discount” model from the Nordic countries. The principle: sell at low prices, in large quantities, while offering fewer references.
In 1988, there were no such stores in France. Today, there are more than 4,300 stores, spread across the country, which are welcoming more and more loyal customers.
Average basket price up 20%
A success and demand that can be largely explained by inflation. In the last two years alone, the price of the average supermarket basket has increased by 20%.
Read also: MAPS. 1989-2023: discover how hard-discount food became established in France
The French are therefore looking for a good deal. But this price drop has a cost (on health, the planet, work). Journalist Lola Palmier leads the investigation in a documentary broadcast this Tuesday, September 10 on France 5 . From the vast warehouses in Denmark where most of the discounted products come from, to the shopping areas in France and Belgium where they are put on sale.
France 521 h 05.
