The management of the Delhaize supermarket chain announced it is continuing negotiations with many prospective buyers and received "more than 400" applications for the 128 shops under its management that it plans to franchise.
A letter expressing concern about the takeover conditions set by Delhaize was sent to the management by lawyers representing a group of current branch managers and prospective buyers a few days ago, RTBF reports.
Previously, the Unizo organisation of independent supermarkets, Buurtsuper.be, indicated that many prospective buyers were dropping out because of "unpalatable" conditions.
On Friday, Delhaize confirmed that it was still negotiating with several prospective buyers and said it had transmitted a "new amended contract" that "clarifies or formalises" some issues.
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"It is normal for things to evolve over time. It is also normal to get reactions," said Delhaize spokesperson Roel Dekelver. "But we are not changing the philosophy: the franchisee retains its freedom, its autonomy... That is a good basis for working together."
Delhaize, however, is not concerned and does not see the project to franchise the supermarkets into its own ownership being jeopardised.
"It is like selling a house. At the start, there are 20 applicants who come to see the house, and then some are no longer interested after visiting the bank, and so on," Dekelver said. "It is something we anticipated."
A new regular works council is scheduled on Monday.
