Coop Overtakes Migros as Switzerland’s Leading Food Retailer
zurich, Switzerland – In a meaningful shift in the Swiss retail landscape, Coop has surpassed Migros to become the country’s largest food retailer, according to a recent report.Coop now holds a 43 percent market share in food and near-food products, compared to Migros’ 37.4 percent. This marks the first time in decades that Migros has relinquished its leading position in the Swiss market.
The change comes as coop benefits from consistent investment in low prices and the success of its Pronto concept, reporting a 16 percent sales increase in 2024 alone. This growth was further bolstered by the restructuring at Migros, which drew additional customers to Coop, according to Coop boss Philipp Wyss. Total turnover for Coop reached 34.91 billion francs, exceeding Migros’ 32.5 billion.
Migros is responding with a strategy focused on price reductions and branch modernization. Press director Prisca Huguenin-dit-Lenoir stated customers are already saving 500 million francs this year through price cuts, acknowledging a short-term impact on market share. The company plans to renew 350 branches and open 140 new ones by 2030.
Beyond customary retail, Migros is also expanding its reach through partnerships, circumventing its historic alcohol ban by selling alcoholic beverages at locations like gas stations via Migrolino. Meanwhile, German discounters like Lidl are also increasing their presence, planning 300 new branches, while Aldi considers the Swiss market sufficiently developed.
