Tesco joining forces with French giant Carrefour

Tesco is to form a “strategic alliance” with French retailer Carrefour as part of efforts to cut prices and get a leg up on competitors.

The long-term deal will be covered by a three-year framework and see the two firms form a “strategic relationship” when dealing with global suppliers.

It will also entail the joint purchasing of their own-branded products.

A statement explained the alliance will “enable both companies to improve the quality and choice of products available to their customers, at even lower prices thereby enhancing their competitiveness”.

Tesco and Carrefour claim the agreement will also create “significant opportunities” for their suppliers.

A formal agreement is expected within the next two months. Tesco chief executive Dave Lewis said: “By working together and making the most of our collective product expertise and sourcing capability, we will now be able to serve our customers even better, further improving choice, quality and value.”

The move could give Tesco an extra edge against competitors, including discounters such as Aldi, Lidl and Asda.

Recent figures from Kantar Worldpanel show Tesco’s market share decreased to 27.7% over the 12 weeks to June 17, from 27.9% a year ago.

That was despite sales growing 1.4% over the period.

The sector is also contending with the planned £12 billion merger of rivals Sainsbury’s and Asda.

While Sainsbury’s promised to bring down prices on everyday items after it completes the deal, the German discounters responded aggressively, saying they will remain the cheapest option on the high street.

Aldi and Lidl have both been gaining UK market share undercutting Asda, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons and Tesco.

Tesco chief executive Dave Lewis.