Top 7 grocery retail stories from around the world

ShelfLife’s pick of the week’s top global industry stories from around the world, focusing on grocery retail

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25 May 2026

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From retail tech moves to brand shake-ups, supply chain shifts, and in-store innovation, this week’s round-up spotlights the key developments reshaping the grocery industry worldwide.

Whether it’s a strategic pivot by a major retailer or a breakthrough in how food gets from shelf to shopper, these are the stories you can’t afford to miss.

1) Uber deepens Delivery Hero investment

Uber has increased its stake in Delivery Hero to 19.5%, with a further 5.6% held in options, strengthening its position as the company’s largest shareholder.

The move comes amid growing speculation around a potential takeover bid, with reports suggesting Uber is considering raising its offer for the food delivery group.

2) Pick n Pay returns to profit

South African retailer Pick n Pay has returned to a profit before tax and capital items, supported by strong growth at discount chain Boxer and improved margin management across the group, according to CNBC Africa.

Group turnover increased to 120 billion rand, with Boxer sales rising 9.6%, although the core Pick n Pay business remains under pressure amid store closures and an ongoing turnaround programme.

3) Morrisons shuts 100 convenience stores

Morrisons is set to close around 100 loss-making Morrisons Daily convenience stores across the UK, putting hundreds of jobs at risk, the BBC reports.

The retailer said rising costs, including higher National Insurance contributions and wage increases, had worsened trading conditions at many former McColl’s stores acquired in 2022.

4) Just Eat expands into WhatsApp ordering

Just Eat Takeaway has launched what it describes as Europe’s first integrated food and retail ordering journey through WhatsApp, allowing customers to browse and build orders directly within the chat platform before completing payment.

The service, powered by the company’s AI assistant, will initially pilot in Spain and the Netherlands as part of its wider convenience and technology strategy.

5) Kroger sets Q1 earnings call

The Kroger Co. has announced it will host its first quarter 2026 earnings call on 18 June, where management will outline the retailer’s latest financial and operational performance.

The US grocery giant said the webcast will be available through its investor relations platform, with an on-demand replay released later that day.

6) UK retail sales dip

UK retail sales volumes fell 1.3% in April, with weaker fuel and clothing sales linked to cautious consumer spending and variable weather.

Online spending also declined month-on-month, although three-month retail sales remained slightly ahead overall

7) bonÀrea Expands Spanish Store Network

Spanish retailer bonÀrea plans to invest €121m in 2026, including the opening of 20 new stores and further retail expansions across Spain.

The company said the investment will support continued growth in its commercial, industrial and logistics operations.

 

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