Kaufland opening not far off
German discount supermarket chain, Kaufland, could begin trading in Australia sooner than expected, with eight sites already secured in South Australia.
The chain which operates more than 1,250 stores in Europe, and employs well over 140,000 staff, has begun advertising for Australian staff in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane according to local media reports.
The entry of an additional player in the supermarket could have far reaching benefits for Australian retail marketing, broadening the FMCG retail space, increasing competition and generating new business for Shop! ANZ members.
Similar to Aldi, Kaufland has a property balance sheet strategy (purchase over lease) and is said to be working with Home Consortium (old Masters). Industry feedback suggests Kaufland’s focus will be on Fresh, liquor and general merchandise.
Expansion of Kaufland will lead to further competition in supermarket space.
Area Manager roles advertised on the company website are offering successful candidates a 14-month training and development period in Europe where they will become a fluent German speaker and learn what makes Kaufland successful. Alongside a competitive salary package, the supermarket giant is also offering a fully maintained company BMW.
Fellow German supermarket chain, Lidl, is also said to be eyeing Australia as a potential market for entry, with property scouts having visited in the past 18 months.
