Strategic analysis of the corporate strategy “Growing Together” of Ahold Delhaize N.V

This thesis focuses on the strategic analysis of the corporate strategy “Growing Together” of Ahold Delhaize N.V. in the grocery retail sector, where low margins and intense price competition were further intensified in the period 2020–2024 by inflation, rising costs, changes in consumer behavior, and the acceleration of digitalization and sustainability requirements. The aim of the thesis is to assess the strategy in relation to environmental developments and the group’s performance in 2020–2024 and, based on a synthesis of findings, to formulate an overall evaluation and strategic recommendations. Methodologically, the thesis adopts an analytical and comparative case study approach based on secondary data, combining external environment analysis (PESTEL and Porter’s Five Forces), financial benchmarking of Ahold Delhaize and Tesco PLC (ROS, ROA, ROE, EBIT margin, asset turnover, and personnel cost ratio), internal VRIO and ESG analysis, and synthesis using SWOT/TOWS. The findings identify key external pressures and their links to the pillars of the strategy, including the cost-saving program “Save for Our Customers,” highlight resources supporting long-term performance, and point to areas of sensitivity related to margin pressure, labor cost intensity, and the capital intensity of investments in omnichannel capabilities and ESG.