Ahold, the Dutch retail giant is understood to be having doubts over whether to push ahead with a bid for retailer Hema, according to reports.

It is understood that the doubts come as all other potential purchasers drop out of the race, http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSLDE6AE0CH20101115 (16 November).

UK private equity group Lion Capital acquired Hema in June 2007. However, it was reported that the firm was considering the sale of the retailer in September.

However, despite early interest, all potential buyers, apart from Ahold, have since backed off, Dutch daily Het Financieele Dagblad reported on Monday, citing various sources close to the deal.

Ahold declined to return comment when contacted by just-food.