Delhaize Group announced that Pierre- Olivier Beckers, its President and Chief Executive Officer, intends to retire from his executive role by the end of 2013 and will continue to serve as a company director. As part of Delhaize's succession plan, Mr. Beckers will stay in his post until a new CEO is appointed and a smooth transition has taken place. He will continue to serve on the Board, in a non-executive capacity, after stepping down as CEO. The Board of Directors is conducting a search for a successor and will consider both internal and external candidates. It is actively engaged in the process to facilitate a smooth and orderly transition of the CEO by the end of 2013.

Delhaize Group reported unaudited consolidated earnings results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2013. For the quarter, the company reported revenues of EUR 5,521 million against EUR 5,442 million a year ago. Operating profit was EUR 115 million against EUR 32 million a year ago. Underlying EBITDA increased by 6.4% at actual exchange rates and 7.1% at identical exchange rates, driven by the U.S. and Belgium and partially offset by a decline in Southeastern Europe. Net profit from continuing operations was EUR 60 million compared to a loss of EUR 2 million in last year’s first quarter. Basic earnings per share of EUR 0.59 compared to loss per share of EUR 0.02 in the first quarter of 2012. Basic and diluted net profit per share was EUR 0.60 compared to a loss of EUR 0.02 in the first quarter of 2012. The increase in free cash flow to EUR 255 million from EUR 87 million in the first quarter of last year is mainly explained by higher EBITDA, further working capital improvements and continued capital discipline. Profit before taxes and discontinued operations were EUR 65 million against loss before taxes and discontinued operations of EUR 21 million a year ago. Net cash provided by operating activities was EUR 326 million against EUR 209 million a year ago. Purchase of tangible and intangible assets (capital expenditures) was EUR 78 million against EUR 145 million a year ago. The company expects an underlying operating profit in 2013 of approximately EUR 775 million at identical exchange rates compared to EUR 804 million last year. The company expects capital expenditures of approximately EUR 650 million (excluding leases and at identical exchange rates). The company targets to generate an average of approximately EUR 500 million free cash flow annually over 2013-2015. For the year 2013, the company plans to open 200 new stores, mostly in Southeastern Europe.

Etablissements Delhaize Frères et Cie "Le Lion" (Groupe Delhaize) Société Anonyme, Q1 2013 Earnings Call, May 08, 2013