French retail giant Casino has become a member of the European Marketing Distribution (EMD) consortium.

With a presence in 16 countries, EMD is a European purchasing alliance of independent retailers that aims to create “attractive and competitive conditions” for European grocery retailers.

Casino said the partnership with EMD will “enhance the competitiveness of its supplies”. EMD claimed the inclusion of Casino would “increase its leadership in Europe”.

The partnership comes at a time when EMD is reforming its operations and governance under the leadership of a new management team, it said.

The new structure, EDM said, will provide “more effective coordination and implementation of operational links”.