Global retailer Ahold has sold its Dutch-based natural products chain De Tuinen to Holland & Barrett Europe, a subsidiary of NBTY, a international producer of dietary supplements Stateside.

The 16m euros deal was first announced in last December and includes 61 De Tuinen stores which offer over-the-counter medicines, dietary supplements, gift items and natural beauty care products.

Ahold said that during the transition period Holland & Barrett will use of several its facilities as well as logistics and other back-office services. And that new locations for the De Tuinen head office and distribution centre would be sought.