AMS is an Amsterdam-based buying alliance which was established in 1988 in Switzerland. Its headquarters is based in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Presently, AMS Sourcing supplies products to over 15,200 stores, covering 21 countries. 

Currently, the business has offices in Switzerland and the Netherlands, however, the main office is located in Amsterdam. 

The shareholders and members of AMS are: Ahold Delhaize, Salling group, JMR, Kesko, ICA, Morrisons, Migros, Booker and Musgrave.

Furthermore, the enterprise has a buying team consisting of 40 analysis managers who perform efficient research to find the appropriate products required by the members of the alliance. 

The buying alliance gained recognition through the Gold Q award at the Wholesale Q awards in 2019. This award was specifically dedicated to its own brand Euro shopper. 

Additionally, the company provides a wide assortment of goods under the following categories (not limited to): 

• Sweet grocery: chocolates, cookies, tea, etc. 
• Savoury grocery: canned food, rice, biscuits, etc. 
• Frozen: meat, vegetables, ready meals, etc.
• Chilled & fresh: ready meals, meat, butter, etc
• Drinks: energy drinks, fruit juices, soft drinks, etc. 

Moreover, the alliance has developed its own brand which is known as Euro Shopper. The brand is composed of 300 food and non-food products such as coffee, chicken breasts, olive oil, etc. These products are sold at lower prices despite being of high quality. Besides, the private label is sold in 7 countries across Europe.

The firm also helps to develop its members’ private labels in various food and non-food categories. Furthermore, AMS Sourcing has acquired the necessary know-how as well as the marketing skills to help its members launch their brands successfully.

In regards to its certifications, the firm abides by strict food safety and quality standards, therefore all AMS suppliers must be certified by GFSI, BRC and BSCI.

Concerning sustainability, the firm is committed to build sustainable food supply chains which are beneficial for the environment. 

As of 2021, the business is looking for products in the personal care category such as vitamins, complements, hair care, hygiene and skincare. It is noteworthy that AMS sourcing prefers vitamins and complements in the effervescent format. 

Aldi is a private discount store retailer. Made up of independent operating companies, the company started its journey in 1913 as a small grocery under the name Albrecht Diskont in Germany. After the sons took over the company, the business was divided in to Adi Nord and Aldi Sud. Theo Albrecht presided Aldi Nord while Karl managed Aldi Sud. All stores were organised as independently operated companies with around 35 companies for Aldi Nord and 31 companies for Aldi Sud. The specialty retailer Trader Joe's was even acquired by Aldi Nord in 1979.

Aldi expanded both on a national scale and internationally, now having 8125 stores worldwide.

The company deals with products such as food, beverages but also non-food items such as

• electrical products
• household products
• clothes

Aldi has been concentrating on its expansion hence the new store in San diego has expanded to 22,000 square feet and even projects to have 2500 stores in the United States by 2020. With this plan, Aldi aims to reach 100 million clients monthly.

Founded in 1947, Coop Norway is a retail chain and is headquartered in Oslo, Norway.

The retail chain comprises 1,200 Coop stores across the country as well as an online shop.

It employs at least 28,000 workers and in the financial year 2021, the company reached  a turnover of €5.8 billion.

It offers a variety of products under different categories such as:  

• Sweet grocery: candy, chocolate, biscuits, etc.
• Savory grocery: pasta, bread, rice, etc.       
• Fresh and chilled: fruits, salmon, vegetables, etc.
• Frozen: smoked sausage, beef rolls, prawns, etc.
• Dairy: cheese, butter, milk, etc.
• Drinks: juice, carbonated soft drinks, water, etc.
• Household: toilet paper, detergents, kitchen towels, etc.
• Personal care: soaps, shampoo, conditioner, etc.     
•  Wine and spirits: beer, wine, rhum, etc.      

Coop Norway operates its stores under different banners including:

• Coop Mega
• Coop Price
• Coop Elektro
• Extra

Coop Norway developed its private labels which are:

• Coop: a range of meat-free alternatives.
• Coop Smak: a brand of products like chicken.
• Coop Anglamark: a range of organic food and hygiene products.
• Coop Xtra: a range of food and beverages.
• Grill Perfekt: a range of barbecue products.

It also offers gluten free products such as bread, cereal bars, granola, etc. 

In 2020, Coop signed a 10-year €47.3 million loan agreement with NIB for the expansion and development of its two main Logistic Centres located close to Oslo, Norway.

Moreover, in 2021, the company developed a fully automated logistic centre at Langhus.

Link to Coop’s online shop: https://matlevering.coop.no/ 

COMPANY PROFILE

Alidis/Agenor is a Swiss-based Buying Alliance for six of the major European retailers for whom it buys national brands and Private Label. Until August 2015 Alidis and its operational arm Agenor was one of the most stable purchasing groups in Europe as it had been owned by the German Edeka, the French Les Mousquetaires and the Spanish Eroski for almost 10 years. Such situation changed drastically when Coop Schweiz, Italian Conad and Belgian Colruyt — members of the late Core purchasing group — announced their intention to join the group, thus constituting the largest alliance of European food retailers. As of today, thanks to its new members, Alidis is present in 8 countries for a cumulated turnover of up to 140 billion euros.

PRIVATE LABEL

Alidis is currently negotiating national brands as well as Private Label products for its members. As far as Private Label is concerned, the idea of Alidi’s members is not only to negotiate better prices fir higher quantities but also to mutualize manufacturers for certain categories : for example, German Edeka is launching a French-specialties oriented brand thanks to some of ITM’s manufacturers.

Coop Trading is a buying alliance which was established in 2008, regrouping Coop Denmark, Coop Norway, Coop Sweden and SOK Finland. Coop Trading’s head office is based in Denmark. The firm distributes to over 4500 retail shops as well as online shops in Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland, serving more than 13 million consumers.  

Coop Trading is the internordic procurement company which secures branded products at competitive prices and develops private labels. Furthermore, the company sources fruits and vegetables and indirect goods and services. 

In the Nordic region, the buying alliance holds a market share of 33%.

The firm has a team of over 100 employees and in 2021, Coop Trading achieved turnover of around €3.8 billion.

The company offers around 5000 references under the following private labels:

• X-tra: Under this brand, products such as meat, fish, bread, etc,.. are sold.
• Coop / Rainbow: Delicatessens, groceries and home accessories are available in this section.
• Anglamark: This brand is composed of organic food products, environmentally friendly and allergy friendly non food products.

Coop Trading has set up a well-established code of conduct which suppliers must adhere to. The code of conduct includes rules about employees’ rights , the protection of the environment and anti-corruption measures. 

Furthermore, Coop Trading also has specific product and quality requirements concerning the products. In fact, there are product specialists who test the products and ensure that they meet safety and quality norms. 

Coop Trading is aiming at reducing food waste and using more renewable, reusable and recycled packaging in order to be more sustainable. 

Galec is a buying alliance that was launched in 1962 by E.Leclerc. Nowadays, Galec serves 600 shops, 600 drives, 2400 specialised shops and different online stores. At present, the buying alliance comprises 500 members. 

The firm employs 800 employees and its turnover is around € 114.4 million.

Galec provides products in the following categories:

• Savory Grocery
• Sweet Grocery
• Drinks
• Chilled & Fresh Food
• Frozen Food
• Personal Care

UPDATES ON GALEC ON 24/02/2021

It was recently announced that Galec has launched 2 new departments: supply chain purchasing and brand marketing. In this way, Galec will also be handling sales and marketing rather than focussing solely on sourcing. 

Coop France is a regional cooperative based in Normandie and Picardie, founded in 1990. The group uses cooperative distribution aiming to satisfy the needs of its members which is approximately over 50,000 organisms.

The group is represented by 101 points of sale, through banners like Hyper U, Super U and leader price.

The revenue of Coop France which was 457 million in 2016 is segmented into :

• Super U (20.97%)
• Hyper U (30.20%)
• Leader Price (48.83%)

European Marketing distribution also known as EMD is a buying alliance for independent retailers. The alliance is composed of 14 members encompassing 400 players in the grocery retail sector covering 22 countries and 55,000 points of sales. The alliance enables the retailers to beneficiate from advantageous conditions while also participating in EMD projects.

The firm achieved a turnover of €184 billion in 2018.

EMD members regroups particularly retailers from the European region as follows: (non-exhaustive list)

• Markant Oesterreich GmbH, Vienna
• Markant Syntrade AG, Pfäffikon
• Markant AG, Pfäffikon
• Markant C.E.S. s.r.o., Prague
• Markant Slovensko s.r.o., Bratislava
• Dagrofa, Brøndby
• Euromadi Iberica SA, Esplugues
• Tuko Logistics Osuuskunta, Kerava
• EMC Distribution S.A.S., Paris

For more than 25 years, EMD deals with manufacturers along with retailers with the aim to enhance new markets within the European frame. The platform not only enables members to meet but also provide new opportunities for suppliers.

Since various EMD members has brands in their portfolio, EMD has a long record of dealing with manufacturers having branded products. The buying alliance hence provides a platform where suppliers having brands can expand their business network.

Furthermore, the firm sources private label products which can be great opportunities for private label manufacturers. Indeed, EMD sources private label items for its members. The sourcing is done through EMD’s 7 steps sourcing process.

The buying alliance caters for retailers as well by offering a wide rage of EMD’s own labels which have been carefully developed for retailers matching high standards and expectations of the members.

EMD has also Eurolabel brands which are only for EMD-members. These particular products are made only after exclusive agreements with EMD while only specific suppliers have the permission to produce these EMD Eurolabel products.

Some examples of Eurolabels are as follows:

• Banderos
• Powerking
• Fraiche D’or
• Premier
• Monte Castello
• Freshgold
• EMDBRAU
• Fresca d’oro
• Spice field
• Minel
• Omega

Confirming its expansion, in 2017 EMD was joined by Russian retailer Lenta which has a turnover of 4.5 billion euros followed by Australian retailer Woolworths having an external turnover of 216 billion euros as well as Globus the German hypermarket chain.

The major reason why Woolworths joined EMD is mainly for a private label business only in order to promote its private label product ranges. Through this commitment, Woolworths is able to provide its customers with more choice of own brand products. Woolworths added 38,000 million euros to the purchasing power in 2017. EMD became the first intercontinental shopping alliance when the Australian distributor Woolworths joined the organisation.

Also, Lenta joined the alliance to ensure savings by expanding its goods sourcing base. The significant savings concerns primarily the supply chain.

In the year 2016, the members of the buying organization noticed an increase of 4% in sales for their business volume in Iberia.

As of January 2018, Asda quit the buying group in order to strengthen its direct to supplier model.  However, Asda stated that EMD has been the right partner for them by helping them strengthen their buying capabilities in the last few years.

Presently EMD’s retail network covers 4,000000 square meters, with 14% market share in Europe. Its turnover in Europe accounts for 160 billion euros while in Australia and New Zealand the figures are 38 billion euros.

Euromadi is a Spanish Buying Alliance for more than 150 Spanish and Portuguese associates representing a cumulated turnover of 13,795 billion euros and standing for more than 13 500 outlets. The Purchasing Group claims a 20% share of the whole Spanish market and a 43,5% market share as far as perfumeries and drugstores are concerned. As it is aware of the ongoing globalization movement undermining buying structures, Euromadi has long become a member of EMD, the largest centre of mass consumption products in Europe and leader in distribution. The alliance works with almost every range of products both in food and nonfood categories but has a strong HPC expertise.

Euromadi offers a display of 11 own brands standing for 4 500 Private Label SKU’s ranging from food to nonfood categories:

• Among food categories are core brands “Alteza” and “Vivó Chef”.
• Among personal care category, “Central Line” and “Crowe” are Euromadi’s core brands; the second is declined for women (“Juliette Crowe”), men (“Crowe for Men”), and children (“Crowe for Kids”). The group also operates “Perfect Beauty”, a core beauty care brand.
• “Vivó” is a transversal core brand covering food and nonfood segments
• “Tandy” is Euromadi’s brand for pet food and pet care
• “Selex” stands for household.

Founded in 1964 by a group of wholesalers specialised in food items, United Nordic is a buying alliance based in Oslo, Sweden. The buying alliance was launched by the following companies:

• Dagrofa
• Axfood
• Norgesgruppen
• Martin & Servera

The business sources products in different food categories for its members. 

United Nordic's members supply products to clients such as retailers,convenience, gas stations, cash & carry, hotels, etc.

United Nordic’s imports consist of:

• Chilled and Fresh Food: fish, seafood
• Frozen Food: fish, seafood
• Dairy: cheese
• Drinks
• Savory Grocery: canned fruits
• Sweet Grocery: canned vegetables

The buying alliance is known for developing several private labels for its members.  Several of these labels are medium-ranked brands. Some of these brands include (but not limited to):

• Eldorado
• First price
• Banderos
• Smart Pets

There is a buying team which consists of 2 to 4 members depending on the product category. These members are purchasers from each member company. The team is headed by a chief buyer who will be dealing with the suppliers directly. 

United Nordic has a Code of Conduct by which all suppliers must adhere to. The code contains information about human rights, labour laws and other related matters. Furthermore, suppliers should also respect all the European laws and regulations regarding specific product groups.

Disgroup is a buying alliance regrouping 53 distributors. Based in France, Disgroup features around 5000 references. Disgroup supplies food and non-food items to businesses in the HoReCa sector.

Disgroup’s clients include bakeries, pastry shops, fast food shops, caterers, restaurants, etc. The buying alliance has a market share of 95% in France. 

Disgroup reached a turnover of over € 350 million.

The product categories include:

• Frozen Food: bread, pastries, meat, poultry, seafood, etc.
• Chilled and Fresh Food: ham, sausage, bacon, etc.
• Savory Grocery: condiments, chips, sauces, etc.
• Sweet Grocery: chocolate, sugar, sweetener, hot drinks, etc.
• Dairy: cheese, milk, butter, cream, etc.
• Drinks: water, sparkling water, juice, soda, etc.
• Household: laundry care, cleaner, disposables, etc.

There are several organic references which are also provided.

Some of the brands offered are Joysoft, Candia, Lactel, Bel’Pomme, etc. Disgroup is also the exclusive distributor for the brand Irca. 

Disgroup has even develop 4 own brands under the names:

• Les Essentiels: appetizers
• Les Ingrédients du Succès: Products for bakeries, pastries, cake makers, chocolate makers etc
• Le P'tit Benoit: Frozen line
• Chef Raymond: Product dedicated to caterers and restaurants

Disgroup manages its own logistics centre of 10000 m2.

Quality is very important to Disgroup. Hence, the company works with Merieux Laboratories and Silliker Laboratories in order to carry tests on its products to ensure that the quality is maintained. 

Coopernic is a buying alliance which was established in 2006 in Belgium. Its members include E.Leclerc, REWE Group, Ahold Delhaize, Coop Italia and Colruyt Group. Coopernic helps independent retailers and cooperatives an edge in order to compete with large companies. 

Coopernic’s turnover is around € 2.4 billion.

Coopernic works with around 130 suppliers which can provide for products for private labels. 

Founded in 1956, Superunie is a buying alliance that represents 13 independent retail organizations in the Netherlands. The alliance serves over 1700 supermarkets in the country and controls nearly 30% of the market. Furthermore, it also forms part of European Marketing Distribution, a cooperative with an European market share of 14.8%. 

Some of its members are Plus, Boni, Coop, Spar, Poeesz, Jan Linders, etc.

Furthermore, Superunie is in partnership with Sifav.

The buying alliance achieves a turnover of €7.3 billion and employs 100 people.

Various products are provided in the following categories:

• Drinks: soft drinks, syrups, fruit drinks, etc.
• Dairy: milk, cheese, yoghurt, desserts, etc.
• Savory Grocery: olive oil, snacks, chips, rice, pasta, etc.
• Sweet Grocery: cake, breakfast cereals, chocolate, etc.
• Frozen Food: snacks, ice cream, ready meals, etc.
• Household: cleaning sprays, cleaners, air fresheners, etc.
• Personal care: baby care, cosmetics, makeup, etc

Organic options are also available.

Superunie has also owns several brands, some of which are: 

• Gwoon: covers condiments, frozen items as well as household and personal care products.
• Melkan: a range of dairy free products
• Bio +: a range of organic food and drinks
• First choice cola: a range of soft drinks 

Furthermore, Superunie deals with over 230 suppliers across the world, from countries like India, Eastern Europe, Sri Lanka, Brazil etc 

Moreover, several departments, which are responsible for the business activities, are also operational. Some of these include:

• Purchasing A-brands: responsible for negotiating the optimal prices and conditions for the members, drawing from good analyzes and sharp insights
• Sustainable Trade: in charge of sustainable packaging
• Purchase Organic+: controls the activities related to the organic products

The buying alliance is also a co-signatory of the “Code of Conduct for Fair Trade Practices".

Additionally, Superunie is sourcing products for private labels in the following categories: 

• Frozen Food: ice-cream, fish, seafood, ready-meals etc. Superunie’s focus for this category is on ice-cream, pizza and snacks. 
• Dairy: a range of foreign cheeses

With regards to the environment, the alliance indulges in several measures such as endorsing EU legislation on deforestation and land conversion. 

Nisa retail is a convenience store which was founded in 1977 and run by independent retail members.

In the past the company’s name was northern independent supermarket association. The retailer is based in North Lincolnshire and has 4000 outlets while its revenue was estimated was 1500 million euros in 2012.

The company serves mainly in UK and has 213 employees.

Topco Associates LLC is a private company, sourcing innovative solutions for the food industry.

The company provides services including:

Procurement

Quality assurance - composed of food scientists

In addition, Topco creates brands (of different ranges):

Mainstream:

Food Club

Shurfine

Tippy Toes

Paws Happy Life

Simply Done

@Ease

Sweet P's

Buckley Farms

Harvest Club

Over the Top

Cape Covelle

Papa enzo's

Charking

Health and wellness:

TopCare

Full Circle Market

Premium:

Pure Harmony

Wide awake coffee

Cow belle

Nostimo

B.leve

Basic consumables:

Valu Time

Sourcing for 52 retailers and wholesalers in the United states, Topco also handles non-food section such as health and beauty care products as well as pharmacy programs and not-for-resale products.

Presently, the company is established as a leading buying alliance and has different kinds of clients:

Supermarket retailers

Food wholesalers

Members' delis

Ready meals departments

Commissaries

Military Commissaries

Foodservice operators

Members working with Topco, are midsize retailers, hence having around 100 - 150 point of sale per banner. Members embrace the benefits to have their Natural & Organic brand developed by Topco.

Topco Associates has 49 member-owners which includes supermarket retailers, wholesale distributors and foodservice companies.

Some of the member-owners are:

Hy-Vee

Giant Eagle

Price Chopper

Stater Bros.

Associated Food Stores

What was initially a small cooperative is today recognized as the reference among buying alliances and tailor-made solutions are also available for different types of businesses to meet their needs.

Founded in the 1960s in France, Auchan Retail International deals in the retail sector offering assortments of food items and non-food items. Auchan Retail International oversees the sourcing for the group retail subsidiaries.

Auchan Retail is spread among 13 countries including France, Russia, Senegal, etc. Furthermore, it has 1,985 points of sales under the Auchan banner. 

In 1987, the group’s banking subsidiary Banque Accord was created. 

The firm achieved an annual turnover of € 1.6 billion and currently employs 179590 people.

Regarding the food categories, Auchan Retail deals with local producers and SMEs so that the customers can get fresh, local, healthy and seasonal products.

For non-food categories, the company has been developing its own labels which can rival current leading brands.

Its private labels include (but not limited to):

• Cosmia: a range of cosmetics
• Qilive: multimedia products
• In Extenso: a brand featuring textile products  

With regards to the environment, the business has around 216 projects supported by the company’s foundations worldwide. Moreover, 600 tonnes of plastic bottles were collected from the stores in France as well as 66% of waste was recovered from the hypermarkets.

GPS Distribution aims at being pre-eminent international purchasing and distribution firm. Rich of more than 20 years experience, the firm is responsible for the following aspects:

• Purchase
• Commercial
• Communication
• Network animation
• Technical issues

The buying Alliance handles avery steps from the sourcing to the channel distribution design.

The purchase section involves:

• Referencing and developing brands
• Selecting products
• Importing goods
• Segmentation

The commercial aspect involves:

• Conditions negociation for the members
• Federating members around an inovative concept
• Back-up in terms of commercial tasks

And the communication part involves the planning and elaboration of directives with respect to the commercial aspects.

Provera Belux is a buying alliance based in Belgium. The company sources products for its members which include Cora, Match and Louis Delhaize. Provera Belux is owned by Louis Delhaize Group (Provera Belux is not involved with Ahold Group). 

In 2018, Provera Belux partnered with Carrefour Belgium. The purpose of this purchasing partnership is to enable the members of the buying alliance to purchase from around 140 suppliers that usually deal with Carrefour. Hence, Provera Belux will have more negotiating power with the new suppliers. 

Provera Belux has a market share of 4.6% in Belgium.

In 2020, Provera Belux reached a turnover of € 3.6 million and employed 17 people during that period.

Established in 2018, Unitas Wholesale is the UK’s largest independent wholesale buying alliance after the merger of two leading and well-established wholesale buying groups. Its headquarters is based in Doncaster, United Kingdom. 

Moreover, the company has 180 wholesale members which include the retail, foodservice, on-trade and specialist wholesalers. Some of its members include Filshill, Abra, AF Blakemore, Savage & Whitten, Deebee Wholesale, Dhamecha, SK Cash & Carry, etc. 

Unitas Wholesale’s turnover exceeds €10 billion annually and has a dedicated workforce of over 50 people. 

It is noteworthy that the firm gained recognition through Grocery id Awards by winning the Silver Award in 2021. 

Furthermore, the business offers a variety of products in the following categories: 

• Chilled & fresh food: meat, seafood, ready meals, etc. 
• Frozen: sausages, waffles, bacon, etc. 
• Sweet grocery: chocolates, sugar, cereal bars, etc. 
• Savoury grocery: rice, pasta, pulses, etc. 
• Dairy: milk, cheese, yoghurts, etc. 
• Drinks: fizzy drinks, juices, energy drinks, etc. 
• Wine & spirits: wines, beers, whiskeys, etc.  
• Personal care: soaps, lip balms, deodorants, etc. 
• Household: toilet papers, detergents, plastic bin bags, etc.

Brands such as Coca Cola, Persil, Heineken, Cadbury, Weetabix and many others are endorsed by the firm.

Moreover, the buying alliance offers its own brands as well:

• Lifestyle: The range includes beverages, meat, biscuits, etc. 
• LSV: The range is dedicated to sports and energy drinks. 
• Sunspring: The range is dedicated to bottled waters. 
• Prince Consort: The range includes gin, vodka, rum, etc. 
• No3: The range is dedicated to cigarettes. 
• Caterers Kitchen: The range includes canned goods, oils, vinegars, etc. 

Pertaining to its logistics solutions, the buying group operates its distribution centres and a fleet of vehicles is readily available to ensure deliveries. 

Additionally, in 2021, the company signed an agreement with Morrisons to launch the Safeway own-label range in its product portfolio. In the same year, Unitas Wholesale partnered with Heineken to launch the festive BWS category guide. 

Unitas Wholesale also partnered with Appy Shop to allow Unitas wholesale members and retailers to use the platform to offer home delivery and the click collect service. 

Furthermore, in February 2022, Unitas Wholesale announced that it will be launching the HFSS compliance search tool in order to educate retailers for their individual stores. In the same year, the company joined forces with Nielseniq Brandbank, a global digital content provider to provide free access to supplier validated product content for all Unitas members. 

With regards to the community, the business supports the Bluebell Wood Children's Hospice organisation by raising funds at key annual events.  

Concerning sustainability, Unitas Wholesale protects the environment by installing LED and timed lighting at its buildings as well as promoting recycling for paper, cardboards and plastics.  

EvoluPharm is a buying alliance that was founded by Jean-Pierre Chulot and 6 pharmacists in 1986. EvoluPharm is known for supplying products at 10% to 30% lower than known brands on the market. The company offers a wide range of health, hygiene and beauty products. EvoluPharm offers around 800 references. 

EvoluPharm distributes to more than 800 pharmacies throughout France. 

The company started its product centre in 1988 in order to develop products under its own brands. 

EvoluPharm employs 220 employees. 

EvoluPharm offers products in the following categories:

• personal care: food supplements, baby care, skincare, oral care, fragrances, etc. 

• Sweet grocery: a wide range of candy

EvoluPharm distributes products from brands such as BabyLook, Xermatis, Les Douceurs d’Amelys, Elite, etc.

EvoluPharm launched its own brand EvoluGEN which consists of 228 references. 

EvoluPharm handles its own logistics and operates a logistics area of 10000 m2. 

Founded in 2012 by Samuel Tordjman, Antoine Souied and Alexis Berreby, Leadersanté Laboratoires is a pharmaceutical group with 700 pharmacies. Based in France, the company offers an extensive range of cosmetics and runs an online store as well. 

Leadersanté Laboratoires operates its own training centre, Leadersanté Academy, where it offers coaching and management courses. 

In its financial year 2021, it acheieved a turnover of €1.1 billion.

Furthermore, the chain owns 3 banners which are as follows:

• Leadersanté
• Artisan Santé
• Cote Pharma

The company has won an award for one of its products at the Oscars of the professional journal Cosmétiquemag.

Leadersante Laboratories offers products in the following categories:

• Sweet Grocery: a range of herbal infusions
• Personal Care: skincare, face care, hygiene, supplements, etc.

Some of the brands including Avene and Mustela collaborate with Leadersanté Laboratoires.

Additionally, Leadersanté Laboratoires also has its own laboratory where 6 private labels have been developed. These include (not limited to):

• Dr Smith: herbal teas, plant capsules and others, are offered
• Doliderm: proposes body care and many more
• Opaz: provides cosmetic items
• Fluowhite: offers dental care products

The online shop can be accessed on www.leadersante.fr

Healthy Group is a buying alliance launched in 2016 in France. Healthy Group specialises in sourcing products for the needs of businesses in the pharmaceutical sector. In addition to this, Healthy Group is also involved in the development of brands for pharmacies. 

Healthy Group is sourcing branded products in the personal care category such as hair care, hygiene, makeup, oral care, fragrances, etc.

Agecore was founded in 2015 and is an alliance of 6 companies from different countries:

• Colruyt (Belgium)
• Conad (Italy)
• Coop (Switzerland)
• Edeka (Germany)
• Eroski (Spain)
• Intermarché (France)

These 6 companies have joined forces to form a new strategic alliance in Switzerland. The 6 purchasing groups are totally independent and account for a revenue of € 140 billion . The buying alliance is present in 12 European countries through 22,000 points of sale.

Agecore was created to respond to the emerging needs in Europe pertaining to food distribution. The alliance also enables the members to provide competitive prices to their customers.

Baltstor is a retail co-operation based in Latvia and was established in 2004. Its headquarters is based in Riga, Latvia. The firm regroups 95 companies with more than 400 retail outlets. Some of its members include 2 of the most popular retail chains: Mego and Vesko. Baltstor purchases products in bulk for all its members depending on their requirements.  

Baltstor employs 89 people and achieves € 43.6 million. 

Baltstor was ranked among the Top 500 major companies in Latvia in 2018. 

Baltstor has a warehouse area of 8000 m2 and there are plans to expand to a total of 25000m2 in the next 5 years.  There is a regular warehouse and a warehouse for cold and frozen products.

Baltstor will stop selling eggs from cage-reared chicken by 2025. 

Convivo is a brand developer which is based in Austria. Convivo is a subsidiary of the Lekkerland Group. The firm is in charge of managing, developing and implementing strategies for the marketing of private labels. Moreover, the company works with manufacturers and distribution partners to design products and brands. 

The Convivo team consists of 11 people

The business develops products in the following categories: 

• Drinks: spirits, beer, wine, non-alcoholic

• Savory grocery: snacks

• Sweet grocery: sweets

Furthermore, the objective of the company currently is looking forward to develop its drinks category by adding the following products:

• Soft drinks

• All Juices and Smoothies

• Energy Drinks

• Water

• Beer

• Spirits - The spirits should be at low or middle prices.

• Sparkling wines

• Alcoholic mixed drinks

• Wines - The wines especially from France, Italy, Germany and Greece will be taken into consideration. It is noteworthy that the price should be about 7€ per bottle.

Some of the brands launched by Convivo are:

• Take Off: a brand of energy drinks 

• Santa Emilia: a brand that offers drinks such as carbonated mineral water

• Durstloscher: a range of drinks that include ice tea and fruit juices

• Dominikaner: a brand of drinks that include soft drinks 

• Mr. Knabbits: a range of crisps and snacks

• M’Candy: a range of confectionary that consists of candies

• M’Cooky: a brand of biscuits 

Coperama is a buying alliance regrouping hotels, restaurants and event locations with the purpose of sourcing food, beverages and equipment. Coperama was founded by NH Hotels Group in Spain in 2010.

The buying alliance sources products for around 380 NH Hotels but also for other hotels, restaurants as well as event venues. 

Coperama counts over 900 members from 16 European countries as well as in Colombia and Mexico. 

Concerning the hotels that joined the buying alliance, there are both hotel groups and independent hotels. The hotels are between 3 stars to 5 stars.  

Coperama operates an online platform where its clients have access to around 900 suppliers. At present Coperama offers over 30000 references. 

Coperama experiences, on average, an annual growth of 48% in its turnover.  

Furthermore, the firm also operates several business units, each with a local team that focuses on the requirements of their clients. 

Coperama is constantly looking for new suppliers and new products and services. Thanks to the online marketplace, suppliers have the advantage of reaching more clients and entering new markets without having to be physically present in these countries. 

Copharm is a buying alliance which includes various independent businesses in the Czech Republic. The firm provides its services in the pharmaceutical market.
The association is composed of more than 300 efficient pharmacies which is a subsidiary of one of the largest networks in the Czech Republic and Slovakia namely Pilulka Holding.

Pertaining to the e-commerce platform, Pilulka Holding provides a wide assortment of goods under the following categories:

• Personal care (medicines, cosmetics, baby products, etc…)
• Household (air freshener, detergents, dishwasher, etc…)  

Targets:

• Active suppliers on the Czech and Slovakian market are highly recommended.
• The company is interested in collaborating with Italian suppliers.
• The firm is interested in cooperating with distributors for the grocery category.

In fact, the objective of the company is to expand the business in Romania.

 The holding company is currently interested in products such as:

• Skincare
• Baby care
• Hair care      

In the financial year 2017, the firm amounted a revenue of approximately 60 million euros. Since the year 2014, an exponential growth of the company has been noticed.

Confex functions as a buying alliance and is based in the UK. Confex started operating in 1972. Nowadays, the firm works with over 240 members. Confex is a private company and an associate of the Landmark Wholesale group.

Confex settles competitive deals with suppliers which benefit all its members. The business also helps in marketing strategies and supporting its members with incentive and discounts. Furthermore, the central distribution gives members flexibility in terms of the quantities they order. 

Confex has partnered with American Express. The partnership benefits members in terms of special payment terms and rewards. 

The members that work with Confex include wholesalers, cash & carry stores, vending operators, food service businesses such as cafes, restaurants, catering companies, etc. 

The business’s turnover has reached € 2.5 billion.

The company offers products in the following categories: 

• Drinks: alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
• Savory Grocery: crisps, snacks, nuts, etc.
• Sweet Grocery: chocolate, sweets, biscuits, tea, etc.
• Dairy: a range of dairy products such as yoghurts
• Frozen Food: ready-meals, sauces, desserts, etc.
• Chilled & Fresh food: fish, seafood, ready-meals, etc.
• Personal care: a variety of personal care products
• Household: a range of cleaning products

Confex currently works with over 200 suppliers which include Nestle, Mars, Twinings, Cadbury, Volvic, Rio, Red Bull and Ferrero. There are over 1000 brands available. 

Confex also introduced its own brand, CORE which consists of food and non-food products targetting wholesalers dealing in the HoReCa sector. 

In order to become an official supplier of Confex, one should meet the following requirements:

• First and foremost, they need to pay a launch fee.

• The suppliers should provide relevant and interesting products.

• Having the ability to deliver in pallets and able to ship directly to the members.

• They should be having their own sales representatives in the UK.

• Having their own warehouses is a plus point, also they can ship to Confex’s central distribution which costs 7.5%.

• The supplier should be willing to sell into UK independent wholesale.

• The minimum turnover for suppliers should be 200,000 euros and they are requested to offer their buyers a loyalty bonus of 2% based on their operating turnover.

In order to conduct their deliveries, a fleet of 3517 vehicles are available. In relation to the logistics solutions, the firm partnered with Yearsley Logistics (largest UK frozen provider of supply chain solutions) hence ensuring the smooth running of the supply chain.

Victoria Trading is an independent purchasing cooperative which has been formed in the year 2013 in the Netherlands. The purchasing cooperative is comprised of seven Dutch foodservice businesses. They have joined forces and bundled volumes with the aim of a better price-quality ratio, increasing efficiency in the chain, innovation and intensification of corporate social responsibility. 

Through this collaboration, the company’s purchasing volume amounts to over 300 million euros.

The seven Food service members are as follows:   

• Albron - The firm operates approximately 1000 locations across the Netherlands. Foods and drinks are provided to various companies and governments, at schools and universities, in hospitals and care institutions, at events and in day and accommodation recreation.
• Efteling - The Efteling is a theme park and recreation complex Besides the amusement park, the entire World of the Efteling includes a theater, two hotels, two holiday parks and a golf park. With 5.18 million visits in 2017, the park is among the top European theme parks.
• FFC (Franchise friendly concepts) - Franchise Friendly Concepts (FFC) is the largest independent fast-service franchise organization in the Netherlands. FFC supports Kwalitaria, a cafeteria formula with more than 140 locations, and Délifrance, located in 16 countries (60 locations in the Benelux). 
• HMSHost - The firm conducts their business among others at the Schiphol Airport, operating more than 75 restaurants, a hotel and meetingrooms. In addition, HMSHost operates formulas at NS Stations, The Hague Airport and in shopping centers with a total of more than 35 outlets. 
• La place - The firm is present in Holland since the year 1978. La place is a chain with more than 15 million guests annually and operates internationally. 
• Vermaat Groep - Vermaat developed catering and retail concepts for businesses, hospitals, museums, airports and events. With more than 300 catering locations throughout the country, Vermaat is one of the five largest employers in the hospitality industry.
• Total Nederland NV - The firm operates more than 300 gas stations across the Netherlands. Total also provide their services in the food sector under the banner Café Bonjour.

Procent is a buying alliance which was founded in 2012 and is headquartered in Amersfoort, Netherlands. Regrouping over 11000 members that include more than 50 caterers,  950 hotels and 10000 restaurants. Procent sources products for its clients in the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany. 

By purchasing products in large quantities, its members save in terms of costs and time. In fact, Procent purchases millions of products each year. 

Some of the members are Yip Group, The Pizza Bakers, The Seafood Bar, Dunkin Donuts & Ice Bakeries, 3WO Horeca Group, etc. 

Moreover, Procent has a team of over 45 employees working with dedication in order to offer the best services to its customers. 

Procent is looking for products for the following categories:

• Savory Grocery: herbs, spices, rice, pet food, oils, soups, etc.
• Sweet Grocery: ambient desserts, hot drinks, sugar industrial pastries, bread, etc.
• Drinks: alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
• Frozen Food: desserts, ready-meals, snacking, drinks, vegetables, etc.
• Chilled & Fresh Food: meat, fruits, vegetables, drinks, salads, snacks, etc.
• Dairy: yoghurt, dessert, cheese, butter, cream, etc. 

The firm also offers dairy-free and meat-free products. 

The firm wishes to source for private label products in all categories. Moreover, Procent is also interested in brands. One of the brands it offers is Capra Nera. 

Procent is looking for suppliers who are BRC and ISO certified and are sustainable. 

Suppliers benefit by reaching out to a large number of clients in the HoReCa sector.

UPDATES ON PROCENT ON 12/08/2020

For 2020, Procent is interested in products for all its categories but is focussing on suppliers that can provide products for private labels in the following categories: 

• Frozen Food: fruits, vegetables, snacking, etc.
• Drinks: soft drinks and juices
• Savory Grocery: crisps, snacks, nuts, etc.
• Sweet Grocery: chocolate, sweets, hot drinks, etc.

Established in 1999 by small traders, Aibe is the largest alliance of trade companies in the Baltics States. Its headquarters is based in Vilnius, Lithuania. 

The company unites more than 400 trading companies and manages over 1,400 stores in Lithuania and Latvia. 

In addition, Aibe’s members are independent entrepreneurs who operate various stores across Lithuania and Latvia under the banner Aibe. Besides, marketing, IT solutions, financial and logistics services are provided to them as well. 

In the financial year 2020, Aibe achieved a turnover of € 177 million and currently employs more than 368 people. It is noteworthy that the company increased its revenue by almost 15%. 

Furthermore, the company offers a wide assortment of products in the following categories: 

• Savoury grocery: biscuits, vinegars, rice, etc. 
• Sweet grocery: biscuits, chocolates, coffee, etc.  
• Chilled & fresh: fruits, vegetables, meat, etc. 
• Frozen: ready meals, meat, ice creams, etc.
• Dairy: yoghurt, cheese, eggs, etc, 
• Drinks: energy drinks, soft drinks, water, etc. 
• Wine & spirits: wines, champagnes, beers, etc. 
• Personal care: deodorants, shampoos, perfumes, etc. 
• Household: detergents, toilet rolls, disinfectants, etc. 

Brands such as Ariel, Dove, Jacobs, Coca Cola, Oreo, Lays, Kitkat and many others are endorsed by the firm.   

Pertaining to its logistics solutions, the buying alliance operates its own distribution centre and has a fleet of vehicles to manage its deliveries. 

Moreover, products such as fruits, vegetables, meat and fish are delivered in different temperature regimes. Aibe also promises delivery within 24-48 hours to its customers. 

With regards to the community, the firm provided EUR 100,000 as financial support to Ukraine in February 2022. 

In June 2018, the business entered into an agreement with Telema to promote electronic data in its retail activities. 

Furthermore, in July 2020, the company announced that it is considering an e-commerce solution that would suit all its members. 

Aibe was one of the first companies to install the innovative cash management system cash infinity from the company UAB Hansab. 

Founded in 2015, the buying alliance Pharmabest is the largest pharmacy network in Marseille, France. Pharmabest was initially known as the G7 network.

Furthermore, the group operates 98 pharmacies across Marseille and it runs an online store as well.

The pharmacies are mainly found in malls and account for 13 millions of prescriptions per year which represents 10% of the global dermocosmetic market.

Pharmabest offers delivery for prescribed medicines since 2017. 

A turnover of €800 million was achieved by Pharmabest in 2021 and it employs a total of 2800 people.

Products in the personal care category such as skincare, supplements, makeup are provided by Pharmabest

The brands collaborating with Pharmabest are as follows(but not limited to):

• Lierac
• Cattier 
• Puressentiel 
• Phytalessence
• Philips
• Tena

In 2018, Pharmabest  launched its private label called Pharma Science, a line that offers 71 references and focuses mainly on food supplements as well as organic essential oils. Its products are made from ingredients of natural origin.

Pharmabest’s online store can be accessed on www.pharmabest.com

Pharmavie a network of pharmacies in France, incorporated in 1993. Pharmavie is a subsidiary of the Phoenix Group. 

The network has developed it's private labels which are known as ‘pharmavie’ (135 SKU) and ‘Pharmaprix’ and can be classified as follows:

• ‘Pharmavie’ products comprises of ranges like:

Nutritherapy (pregnancy and breastfeeding, purifying, vitamin D, cerebral, chewable magnesium etc) - This brand comprises of 34 references and aromatherapy consists of  24 organic references in aromatherapy. 

Aromatherapy (essential oils, sweet night complex, relaxation complex etc)

• ‘Pharmaprix’ products can be classified as follows:

Hygiene and beauty (lip stick, hand and nail cream, cleansing micellar water, gentle shampoo etc)

Gourmet range (shower gel, lipstick, soap etc)

Well being (slimming drainer, freshness mist, magnesium vitamin B6)

Organic infusion (bio sleep infusion, organic circulation infusion, fat burning infusion etc)

First aid (pregnancy test, wrist blood pressure monitor etc)

More information about its products can be found on ‘Pharmavie magazine’ which can be accessed on the site: https://www.pharmavie.fr/magazine

The firm is  ISO 9001 certified. It has sales area of  92,000 meter squares.

The network owns 780 pharmacies in France with 2,500 pharmacists and comprises of 5,000 employees.

The annual turnover per dispensary is estimated to be 2,5 million euros while the share of reimbursed drug in sales and the share of pharmacy and self medication in sales represents 69% and 31% respectively.

Beauty Alliance Germany is a buying alliance specialising in sourcing cosmetics and fragrances for its 242 members. The beauty alliance was established in Germany In the 1960s. Beauty Alliance Germany is one of the largest alliances in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and France.

Beauty Alliance Germany provides over 12000 references and supplies over 1100 stores and 700 beauty institutes. Moreover, Beauty Alliance Germany also runs the online shop, Parfuemerie. 

Beauty Alliance offers its members a wide range of services such as:

• Consulting
• Purchasing
• Marketing
• Intranet access
• Accounting
• Data processing and organization

Beauty Alliance Germany employs 5000 people and its turnover for 2019 is over € 800 million. 

Beauty Alliance Germany provides products in the personal care category such as hair care, skincare, makeup, etc. 

Some of the brands it offers include All Saints, Frapin, Dior, EOS, Chopard, etc. 

Beauty Alliance Germany’s online store, Parfuemerie can be accessed on www.parfuemerie.de

Maxi Pharma is a chain of 36 pharmacies which was founded in 2007 in France by Daniel Machover, a pharmacist and 2 experts in pharmaceutical consulting, Eric Chastre and Lionel Prechner. 

Maxi Pharma, with nearly 23 years of experience, provides a series of solutions and expertise which helps its members set up and operate their pharmacies efficiently. The pharmacies benefit from advice to develop and grow the business with the right solutions and skills. 

The group operates pharmacies in France and in French Guiana. 

For 2020, Maxi Pharma is looking for products for the personal care category such as hair care, skincare, hygiene, etc. The company is looking for brands offering clean beauty products. 

Established in 2018, Horizons Appels D’offres is a buying alliance which is in charge of sourcing private label products for renowned companies. Its headquarters is based in Paris, France. The company has been given a mandate to select and sign capable manufacturers from around the world. 

Moreover, the business sources private label products for major companies such as Eurauchan, Achats Marchandise Casino - AMC for the Casino Group, Metro France and Schiever Group. 

In France, the company’s business activities include:

• Horizons Achats: The firm does negotiations with hundreds of suppliers for consumer products and consumable products. 
• Horizon Tenders: This division handles negotiations for distributor brands and indirect purchases. 
• Horizon Filieres: Casino, Auchan, Metro and Schiever developed common agricultural sectors to handle separately and they are known as Horizon International Services, Horizon International Tender, Horizon International PME. 

It is noteworthy that the firm held 21% of the market share in 2020. 

Furthermore, the buying alliance offers a variety of products in the following categories:

• Sweet grocery: sugar, tea, cereals, etc. 
• Savoury grocery: canned fish, vinegar, oil, etc. 
• Chilled & fresh: compotes, delicatessens, milk, etc. 
• Frozen: potatoes, meat, fish, etc. 
• Drinks: water, lemonades, juices, etc. 
• Wine & spirits: whiskey, wines, beers, etc. 

As of 2021, Auchan Retail, Groupe Casino, DIA, METRO and Schiever Group decided not to renew their cooperation agreements in 2022 after fulfilling their objectives. 

Concerning sustainability, Horizons Appels D’offres reduces its impact on the environment by using recycled and biodegradable materials for its packaging. 

Founded in 1927, Euro Friwa is located in Wurzburg, Germany and regroups wholesalers who are in the hairdressing industry. The group allows its shareholders to be highly competitive on the market and many of them have been attaining  a total sales of €120 million. 

While many of the shareholders are german wholesalers, the company also has shareholders in other European countries like Norway, Belgium and France.

Euro Friwa achieved a turnover of € 50.5 million in 2016 and the company employs 91 people. 

The firm works with hair professional wholesalers, supplying them with a wide range of hair care products from well-known brands like Dusy Professional, Attitude, Hair Doctor, Peggy Sage, Aristocut and Leaving.

The company offers marketing, IT and financial services and also handles the logistics. In fact, Euro Friwa currently owns a 6000 m2 warehouse which can hold up to 14000 products.

Hilton Supply Management is a buying alliance based in the US which sources products including food and beverages for over 8000 hotels and businesses in the hospitality sector.

Part of Hilton Worldwide Holdings, the company supplies many of the company’s hotels but also works with clients such as Lodging Hospitality Management and Vincent Hotel Group. 

In addition to sourcing food and beverages, Hilton Supply Management supplies its clients with kitchen and banquet equipment, furniture, fixtures for hotel guest rooms, lobbies, etc. the company also has an Energy Procurement service that helps clients find suppliers of renewable energy and utility programs. 

Hilton Supply Management has the advantage of offering products at competitive prices as the group can order in bulk. Furthermore, the company has also created its own e-procurement ordering platform which facilitates the ordering process. 

Hilton Supply Management's turnover is € 159.1 million.

The business was also a finalist in the Future of Sourcing Awards in 2019 as it has been an innovator in providing sourcing solutions. 

In the Food and Beverage sector, Hilton Supply Management offers products in the following categories:

• Sweet Grocery
• Savory Grocery
• Drinks
• Dairy
• Frozen Food

Hilton Supply Management counts leading businesses like The Coca-Cola Company among its suppliers. However, the company also works with various suppliers, targeting national and regional manufacturers so that its clients can obtain fresh products within their own region. 

Furthermore, Hilton Supply Management works with  over 1000 smaller suppliers. Under the HSM Supplier Diversity Program, the group also works with suppliers who belong to minority groups such as Women, Asian American, African American, Hispanic American, or Native American. Veteran and LGBT suppliers. To be considered for this  program, at least 51% of the business must be owned and controlled by a member from one of these minority groups. 

Hilton Supply Management has also specified that in that case,  it prefers to work with suppliers who are recognised by official bodies such as the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) or the Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC).

Hilton Supply Management has a specific buying team assigned to the food and drinks categories. 

Hilton Supply Management handles the logistics as well. 

For 2020, Hilton Supply Management is looking for products in the following categories:

• Frozen Food: Ice-cream, desserts, seafood, drinks, cooking aid, meat, fruits, vegetables, ready-meals, snacking, etc.
• Dairy: yoghurts, desserts, cheese, etc.
• Drinks: alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
• Bazar: products such as bathroom accessories
• Personal Care: hair care, supplements, make up, skincare, oral care, fragrances, etc. 

Hilton Supply Management is also interested in meat- free products. 

The company is seeking for brands but also wishes to work with suppliers who produce products under their clients’ private labels.

Dagema eG is a buying alliance which was founded in 1953 in Germany. At the time, Dagema eG involved 8 specialist wholesalers who were specialised in butchers’ products. Nowadays, Dagema eG counts 29 members and offers products for the following sectors:

• Food retail

• Food industry

• Gastronomy

Dagema also operates a spice mill, processing various types of spices and seasoning mixes such as garlic pepper, turmeric, parsley, etc. 

Dagema eG achieved a turnover of € 630 million and employs 54 people. 

The business offers food items in the savory grocery category including sauces, dressings, soups, seasoning mixes, canned food, etc. 

In addition to food items, Dagema eG also offers catering equipment, packaging, cleaning equipment, etc. 

Products from brands such as Victor, Knorr, Homann, Fresh Can, etc. are provided by the buying alliance. 

In the case of its own brand, Dagema doesn’t use additives or flavorings. 

Dagema eG holds a Halal certified and has also obtained the ISO 22000:2005 certificate.

Dagema eG works with 1000 contract suppliers at present. 

Provalliance, a buying alliance, was founded in 2007 in France following a merger between Franck Provost Group and Regis Corporation Group.

Provalliance manages several hairdressing salons across the world. Many of these salons are operated either by the group or by franchisees across the world. Since 2016, the buying alliance is managed fully by Franck Provost Group. 

Provalliance has grown massively through the acquisitions of several hairdressing franchises in different countries. At present, the company operates the following banners:

• Franck Provost: a total of 678 hair salons across the world

• Coiff & Co: 375 hair salons in Europe

• Fabio Salsa: 131 hair salons in Europe and Philippines

• Intermede: a total of 111 salons in France 

• Jean Louis David: 782 hair salons in the world

• Interview: 47 hair salons located in France

• Niwel: 4 hair salons in France and Martinique

• Saint Algue: 257 hair salons in the world

• Brainwash: 195 hair salons in the Netherlands

• Maniatis Paris: 4 hair salons in France

• Cosmo: 62 salons in the Netherlands

• Llongueras Manacor: 120 salons in Spain and Latin America

• Yes: 30 salons in the Netherlands

• Team Kappers: 80 Salons in the Netherlands

• The Barber Company: salons targeted at a male clientele

• Hairskin: 5 hair salons and 1 institute

In addition to this, Provalliance also distributes products from well-known brands to clients including supermarkets, specialized stores and medium-size shops. 

In 2016, Provalliance attained a turnover of € 1.2 billion and employed over 25000 people. 

The firm also set up many training centres in Spain and the Netherlands to provide professional training to apprentices in the hairdressing sector. Many of the training academies enjoy a good reputation. Training programs are based on specific banners’ requirements. 

Provalliance distributes products in the personal care category such as hair care, nail care and related products for men and women.  

Provalliance offers products from brands like Mizani, L’Oreal Professionnel, Wella Professionals, Babyliss Pro, Kerastase Paris, etc. 

Provalliance also distributes the products from Franck Provost’s private labels:

• Franck Provost Paris: a range of hair products

• J’aime My: a brand offering hair products targeted at the international market

• Niwel Beauty: a range of products for textured hair

Pack Partners International is a buying alliance that was founded in the Netherlands in 2004. 

Pack Partners International sources packaging for all its members. The company has 6 members: Nette, Zeus, Gildepak, Pacovis, Publi Embal and Tingstad. 

Pack Partners International acts as a facilitator and negotiates on behalf of its members. The buying alliance imports various from the Far East, enabling members to access a wider range of products. Currently, Pack Partners International imports 6500 containers each year.

Pack Partners International is present not only in the Netherlands but in various countries across Europe including Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Iceland, Austria, Ireland, etc.

In 2015, the business reached a turnover of over € 600 million.

Euromadi Portugal was established in 2006. Euromadi Portugal is a buying alliance which sources products for its members in the Portuguese market. Euromadi Portugal is part of Euromadi, a Spanish buying alliance. 

Euromadi Portugal’s members include Algartalhos Supermercados, Henisa, Saner, Poupanca Cash & Carry, E Aqui Fresco, etc. 

Euromadi Portugal also runs 43 Cash & Carry stores. 

Euromadi Portugal offers over 8400 references including both food and non-food products. 

Euromadi Portugal distributes its products to over 2000 stores in the country. The buying alliance controls 10% of the market in Portugal.

In 2017, Euromadi Portugal’s turnover reached € 1 billion and there were 3066 people working for the business. 

Euromadi Portugal distributes products in the following categories:

• Frozen Food

• Chilled and Fresh Food

• Dairy

• Savoury Grocery

• Sweet Grocery

• Household

• Personal Care

Euromadi Portugal offers products under Euromadi’s own brands which include (but not limited to):

• Core food brands: Alteza and Vivó Chef

• Core personal care brands: Central Line and Crowe 

• Vivó is a transversal core brand covering food and nonfood segments

• Tandy is Euromadi’s brand for pet food and pet care

• Selex stands for household

Euromadi Portugal operates 39 logistic platforms.

Groupe DL Sante is a buying alliance specialised in sourcing products and providing solutions to pharmacies across France. The buying alliance was founded in France in 2001, enabling its members to order low quantities at discounted prices. 

Furthermore, Groupe DL Sante offers 2 advantageous plans for pharmacists in order to assist them with marketing solutions and the development of their own website and mobile application. Indeed, Groupe DL Sante believes that it is essential for pharmacies to have an online presence. 

Groupe DL Sante’s solutions are flexible and can be tailor-made based on what each pharmacist requires. TThis is known as the 360 strategy. Various strategies are developed in order to improve their members’ turnover. 

Groupe DL Sante has its own central purchasing department which is responsible for sourcing products. It must be noted that there are 132 laboratories which supply Groupe DL Sante at present.

Concerning the delivery, Groupe DL Sante ensures that all orders are delivered to its clients within 72 hours. 

CERP Bretagne Atlantique is a cooperative specialised in pharmaceutical products and dermacosmetics. It was founded in 1938 in France. CERP Bretagne Atlantique has 2588 members at present and delivers over 8 million references each month. 

CERP Bretagne Atlantique ventured to the international market in 1992. Nowadays, through a series of acquisitions, CERP Bretagne Atlantique is present in French territories like Reunion Island and French Polynesia.

The cooperative also acquired a stake in the Egyptian firm Pharmaoverseas and PPM, a laboratory in Cambodia. CERP Bretagne Atlantique delivers to 60 countries. 

CERp Bretagne Atlantique also launched Distrimex, a distributor for French-speaking countries in Africa. 

CERP Bretagne Atlantique operates 12 agencies across France.

CERP Bretagne Atlantique provides training, marketing, management consultancy services, delivery, etc. 

CERP Bretagne Atlantique also launched Aelia Pharmacists that reunites 745 members, allowing them to develop their own pharmacy. Aelia Pharmacists works with 70 partner laboratories. 

CERP Bretagne Atlantique reached a turnover of € 1074 million and employs 5302 people.

CERP Bretagne Atlantique has 2 purchasing offices, Santrali and POP sourcing drugstores products from a total of 70 laboratories. 

Concerning the logistics, CERP Bretagne Atlantique’s agencies each have a cold room where products are stored at a temperature of -2 C to 8 C. The cooperative delivers 2 times a day to different pharmacies. 

La Cooperative Welcoop is a buying alliance regrouping around 3800 pharmacists and was founded in 1935. The pharmacy network operates in France as well as the international market. La Cooperative Welcoop operates over 25 subsidiaries in the pharmaceutical sector. 

La Cooperative Welcoop operates under 4 banners and members can opt under which banner they wish to run their establishment. 

• The Cooperator Community
• Objectif Pharma
• Wellpharma
• Anton & Willem

La Cooperative Welcoop offers a number of services that include home care services, technological services for pharmacists, eHealth solutions, etc.

Moreover, La Cooperative Welcoop has its own generics and OTC laboratory. 

La Cooperative Welcoop employs 1600 people and in 2018, the buying alliance reached a turnover of € 306 million. 

In the personal care category, the business offers products such as supplements, skin care, hygiene products, face care, etc. 

La Cooperative Welcoop developed its own brand, Marque Verte which features food supplements, hygiene, hand care, etc.

CEPOS is a buying alliance regrouping wholesalers based in Czech Republic. Established in 1996, CEPOS sources food and drinks for its members and negotiates with suppliers for competitive prices and conditions. 

CEPOS also sources non-food products such as office supplies and services for its members. 

It employs more than 20 employees.

CEPOS provides consulting services in IT, legislation, finance and business support. Marketing strategies are also developed for the wholesalers.

Some of the members of CEPOS are Kubik, Brabec, Luko, Efios, etc.

CEPOS’s turnover is € 200 million. 

Products in the following categories are available:

• Sweet Grocery: industrial pastries, chocolate, sweets, etc.
• Savory Grocery: snacks, chips, crisps, lentils, etc.
• Drinks: water, sparkling water, energy drinks, vodka, etc.
• Dairy: cheese, eggs, butter, etc.
• Chilled & Fresh Food: charcuterie and cold cuts
• Household: cleaners, softeners, disposables, etc.

Some of the brands available include Lucina, Knorr, Tvaroh, Olma, President, etc. Many of the products are imported from Germany, France, USA, etc.

CEPOS also developed its own label, Ceska Cena which features a large variety of food items like grocery products, drinks, pet food, dairy as well as some non-food items like packaging materials, hygiene products, cleaners, etc.

Founded in 2015 by Charles Romier and Charles Beck, Le Comptoir des Pharmacies functions as a web platform for purchasing and inventory management. The site, designed and managed by pharmacists, operates mainly in France. The buying alliance allows pharmacies to purchase their supplies directly from laboratories at the optimal negotiated price. 

Currently, Le Comptoir des Pharmacies works with more than 7,000 pharmacies which are registered on the platform. 

Around 18 people are employed by the firm and the latter is targeting up to € 3 million of sales activity in 2021. 

In 2017, the company won the Graine de Boss competition.

Le Comptoir des Pharmacies offers a range of products in the personal care category and earns a 3% commission on the orders made by its members.

Services such as communication support for laboratories, Personalized destocking advice, Anticipation of unsold products, etc, are also provided. 

Le Comptoir des Pharmacies provides its services under 3 main banners which are:

• Pharm Aid
• Pharm Destock
• Pharm Lab

Furthermore, in 2019, the business raised € 700,000 to finance its growth. 

Vega Società Cooperativa is an associated trade company that has been operating for more than 50 years in the world of Organized Distribution. It was founded in 1959.

VéGé Group is made up of distribution companies such as: GRD, American cash, bava, Gruppo arena, etc.

 It comprises 3,836 selling points.

The total turnover of Gruppo VéGé amounted to €11.95 billion euros and is expected to increase to €12.6 billion in 2022.

It offers various products under different categories such as:   

• Savory grocery: macaroni, rice, sandwich, etc. 
• Sweet grocery: biscuits, cookies, cakes, etc.
• Frozen: ice cream, fish, meat, etc.
• Fresh and chilled: Fruits, vegetables, salmon, etc.
• Dairy: Milk, butter, cheese, etc.
• Drinks: Fruits drinks, carbonated drinks, water, etc.
• Household: Detergents, fabric softeners, cleaning products, etc.
• Personal care: facial care, hair care, body care, etc. 
• Wine and spirits: Wine. 

The company offers a wide range of products under its brand VéGé: corn flakes, biscuits, toilet paper, etc.

In 2018, the Group signed an agreement to become part of the International Centralized Purchasing Committee of Grupo IFA, leader in the distribution of food and consumer products in Spain. 

In this way the Group expanded into southern Europe on an international level. The new AICUBE purchasing centre was created from the alliance between Carrefour Italia, the VéGé Group and the Pam Group.

Founded in 2013, Medicina UAE is one of the fastest growing retail pharmacies strategically distributed across the UAE. Its headquarters is based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The company provides walk-in medical care and health management services as well. 

Currently, the business has a group of over 100 pharmacies across the country. Moreover, Medicina UAE operates an e-commerce platform as well. 

Medicina UAE offers a large selection of goods under the Personal Care Category which includes facial creams, hair conditioners, body wash, hand creams, vitamins, pain killers, medical devices and many others. 

Brands such as Cerave, Cetaphil, Betadine, Vichy, Uriage, Vitabiotics, La Roche Posay, Pupa Milano, Panadol and several others are endorsed by the firm. 

Regarding logistics, Medicina UAE operates an efficient and well-equipped warehouse as well as a fleet of vans and bikes to manage its deliveries. 

The Group is determined to open new outlets within the GCC region in the coming years. 

The company’s online shop can be accessed on: https://medicinaonline.ae/ 

Founded in 1990, Unipharm Grand Ouest is a member of the Apsara Group which brings together over 600 pharmacies. Its headquarters is based in Tourville-la-Rivière, France. 

In its financial year 2021, its turnover amounted to  €3.1 million. It employs over 150 employees. 

The company provides more than 14,000 references. 

Unipharm Grand Ouest provides a selection of products in the personal care category such as skin care, vitamins, supplements, etc.

It uses the concept of ‘Mystery shopping’, a method to test the quality of its services and products. 

Moreover, it is ISO 9001 certified which is defined as the international standard that specifies requirements for a quality management system (QMS).

Une Heure pour soi is an importer and distributor of beauty care products. It is headquartered in Ivry-sur-Seine, France. 

It operates more than 120 Instituts-Perfumeries all over France, exclusively in the E.Leclerc galleries..

Une Heure pour soi offers a selection of products in the personal care category like body care, perfumes, makeup, etc.

Its portfolio consists of several brands such as:

• Giorgio Armani
• Guerlain
• Rochas Byzance
• Chanel
• Clarins

The company has developed its private label ‘une heure pour moi’ which consists of products like body care, face care, nail care, etc.

It also provides beauty care services such as

• anti-ageing
• slimming
• photoepilation

Moreover, Une Heure pour soi aims to operate 200 stores by 2025. 

Concerning its logistics, Une Heure pour soi collaborates with Click & Collect service for the smooth delivery of its products.