Executive Summary

• We offer a preview of our forthcoming report, European Grocery Discounters, which will focus on Aldi and Lidl and the impact on their newer markets, such as the US
• Kroger will acquire grocer Roundy’s for $178 million in order to gain market share in the Midwest, offering a 61% premium over the recent closing price. The deal is expected to close by year-end
• Spanish fashion company Mango is ending its partnership with American retailer JCPenney. Mango will discontinue selling its clothing in 450 JCPenney stores in the US next year
• MIT announced that it will open an “innovation node” in Hong Kong next summer, which will facilitate physical or virtual collaboration between MIT and Hong Kong students