Rapid delivery start-up Gorillas is eyeing an expansion across the Channel, having entered into acquisition talks with French firm Frichti.

Gorillas grocery delivery on smartphone

In a joint statement, Gorillas and Frichti said the proposed acquisition would enable the firms to offer customers meal kits, private label and grocery categories, alongside local products.

It would also give Berlin-based Gorillas a chance to expand its footprint in France, where it already operates out of 22 dark stores in 5 French cities. 

Founded in 2015, Frichti serves more than 450,000 customers spread across eight cities in France and Belgium, and claims to be one of the first rapid grocery firms “to have reached profitable operations”. 

The retailer said Gorillas’ ability to rapidly scale operations combined with Fritchti’s “long-standing expertise in building a sustainable operational network as well as its strong technological infrastructure” will complement one another. 

Gorillas co-founder Kagan Sümer said: “Frichti is an inspirational brand with incredible talents and values. What Julia, Quentin and the Frichti team have created in France is exceptional. They are not only one of the first ones to have discovered the immense potential of quick commerce, but also one of the first movers into private label and ready-to-eat segments. 

“We are super energised from our discussions and alignment on what we want to build together. It’s thrilling that we are committed to providing consumers immediate access to their essential needs. I am looking forward to our partnership with Frichti and to welcoming them to the Gorillas family.”

Frichti co-founder and co-chief executive Julia Bijaoui said: “With Gorillas we have found the perfect partner to take the next step of global expansion. We both share common values, culture and most importantly we have a similar vision for the consumer. I could not think of a better fit and I am excited for our path ahead as one joint company.”

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