USA: Whole Foods Market reached a settlement in its battle with the Federal Trade Commission over its acquisition of Wild Oats Markets in 2007. Leases for 19 former non-operating Wild Oats stores plus 12 Wild Oats stores still operating and one Whole Foods Market store will have to be sold, in addition to all Wild Oats trademarks, before the deal can be completed.

BELGIUM: Belgian supermarket group Delhaize and Unilever have ended their dispute that saw the retailer delist hundreds of Unilever's products. Last month talks on prices ended in deadlock after the fmcg giant reportedly demanded increased prices. "The balanced agreement means a positive outcome for both parties and the consumer," the two companies said in a joint statement. "Our products will start reappearing very quickly," said a Unilever spokesman.

USA: Chicken processor Pilgrim's Pride has mothballed three of its 32 plants in order to cut costs during the economic crisis. The processor said it would save $110m (£79.3m) and no disruption would be caused to customers because the move would simply eliminate overproduction. Last December the troubled company filed for protection from its creditors and it is now being restructured.

FRANCE: Intermarché has launched a new range of discounted fruit and veg under its budget own-label brand Top Budget. The range will consist of nine different fruits and veg, which will change weekly. "By focusing on fruit and vegetables, Intermarché and Ecomarché are responding to the concerns of French consumers with regard to buying power and health. Although consumers are aware of the need to eat fruit and veg every day, a quarter consider them costly," said the retailer.

USA: Wal-Mart has appointed a new chief executive of Sam's Club, after Doug McMillon was promoted to head up the international side of the business. Brian Cornell will start on 3 April and is a newcomer to Wal-Mart, having most recently held the post of chief executive of Michael's Stores, a craft and hobby retailer.