European Supermarket Magazine reports that the Belgian retailer Delhaize has unveiled the first 15 stores to be taken over by independent retailers as part of its transition from a company-owned model.

"An important step"

"This is an important step for our supermarket employees, our new independent entrepreneurs, our customers, and our suppliers," Delhaize said in a statement. "Together, we will continue to build a sustainable future for the Delhaize brand."

The Ahold Delhaize-owned retailer stated that all entrepreneurs have a "passion for Delhaize," with five already operating other Delhaize supermarkets, five joining the business for the first time, and five being existing employees of the retailer.

"Premium Transition"

The retailer added that all employees in the involved supermarkets will retain their roles, as well as their current salary and working conditions in accordance with a collective labor agreement.

Additionally, each employee will receive a "transition bonus" of 1,500 EUR, with an extra 100 EUR for each year of seniority.

In March of this year, Delhaize announced plans to transition all 128 Belgian supermarkets currently operated under company management into independently affiliated Delhaize supermarkets.

The company stated that this move would allow it to "better respond to market trends, changing consumer behavior, and the local environment in the future."

The decision sparked a series of protests by workers across the country, amid fears of widespread job losses.