NETHERLANDS: Speculation that Tops is going to Tesco dampened by Ahold investment

Over the next three years, the Dutch retailer Ahold has announced its intention to invest in its 40 strong Malaysian supermarket chain Tops to the tune of between £2.7m and £3.6m. Tops is the market leader in Malaysia and recently speculation has abounded that Tesco was in talks for a buyout. A spokesman from Ahold commented, however that: "It has never been discussed. On the contrary, we're proud of the company. We're continuing to invest and expand the chain - acquisition is a future possibility."