The Dutch grocer had what it called a strong start to the year after saying 2024 was marked by inflation and volatility in commodities and supply chains.

In the U.S., where Ahold Delhaize generates more than half of its revenue, major retailers including Target and Walmart have been pushing to keep prices of essentials low as many Americans shun big-ticket spending and turn to discount shopping in the face of sticky inflation.

For its 2025 outlook, Ahold Delhaize expects underlying operating margin of around 4%, mid- to high single-digit underlying EPS growth, free cash flow of at least €2.2 billion, and gross capital expenditures of around €2.7 billion.

Ahold Delhaize reported slightly higher-than-expected sales in Q4, driven by strong US holiday sales and market share gains by Albert Heijn.

Supermarket group Ahold Delhaize reported slightly higher-than-expected sales for the fourth quarter on Wednesday, as it saw volume recovery in the U.S. and strong performance in Europe. The Dutch group's revenue for the three months through December 31 was 23.