Dutch and Belgium-based grocery retailers Ahold and Delhaize have released a short statement confirming that they have entered early discussions regarding a potential combination.

The two groups emphasised that these were preliminary discussions, that would not necessarily end in any sort of tie-up.

'Ahold today confirms that it has entered into preliminary discussions with Delhaize Group to explore the opportunity of combining the two companies,' the statement read.

'These discussions may or may not result in a future transaction. The company will communicate material updates, if any, in accordance with regulatory requirements.'

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