Carrefour Navigates Inflation Amid Iran Conflict: A Resilient Retail Outlook

In a recent call with analysts, Carrefour's Chief Financial Officer, Matthieu Malige, indicated that French shoppers remain resilient amidst the Iran conflict, the company's largest market. Despite the conflict's potential to hike energy and food prices, Malige expects inflation in France to be less severe than during Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Last year's profit margins for Carrefour dropped to 2.6% from the previous year's 3.1%, partially due to consumers choosing cheaper alternatives like E Leclerc amid surging inflation. However, with France's Finance Ministry predicting a gradual rise in inflation to 1.9% this year, Malige foresees a marginal impact on consumer behavior.

Carrefour witnessed a 0.8% sales decline in Brazil caused by high interest rates but experienced a 1.4% sales growth in France. Strong performance in Spain and steady conditions in the Middle East contribute to investors' optimism, resulting in an 18% increase in Carrefour's shares this year.

(With inputs from agencies.)