Top 7 grocery retail stories from around the world
Print26 January 2026
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) Aldi Süd tests wooden store pilot
Aldi Süd is testing a new timber-built supermarket concept in Alzey, Germany as a sustainability-focused pilot for future real estate and store design models, according to CibusLink.
The all-wood store aims to reduce carbon impact and build more efficiently, marking a potential shift toward greener retail construction in the grocery sector.
2) M&S chief technology officer steps down
Marks & Spencer has announced that Josie Smith, chief technology officer, will step down as part of a planned leadership transition, The Grocer has reported.
The move follows a period of strategic tech transformation at the retailer as it adapts to evolving digital and customer-facing demands in grocery and apparel.
3) WH Smith appoints new chairman
WH Smith has named a new chairman as part of a leadership transition at the UK retailer, RTÉ reports.
The appointment follows the departure of the previous chair and aims to support governance and strategic priorities across its retail and travel businesses.
4) Premier Foods reports strong Q3 Christmas trading
Premier Foods has reported a solid trading performance for the 13 weeks to 27 December 2025, with branded revenue up 5.2% and total group sales up 4.1% driven by strong Christmas demand and category growth.
The company now expects full‑year trading profit at the upper end of market expectations, supported by gains in grocery, sweet treats, new categories and international sales growth.
5) Walmart announces key leadership changes
Walmart has announced a series of leadership changes, including new executive appointments across its U.S. and global businesses.
The updates aim to strengthen leadership alignment and drive performance as the retailer navigates evolving market conditions and customer priorities.
6) Lidl Belgium switches all roses to Fairtrade
Lidl Belgium has transitioned all roses sold in its stores to Fairtrade-certified products, strengthening its sustainability and ethical sourcing commitment.
The move means customers automatically support fair wages and improved conditions for growers, while Lidl builds on its wider Fairtrade leadership in the retail sector.
7) Tesco trials new crime reporting tech
Tesco will trial a new crime reporting platform across 40 stores to help deter retail crime and enhance safety for colleagues, customers and communities.
Retailers and police will benefit from a unified system that makes it easier to report, track and resolve security incidents more efficiently and identify repeat offenders.
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