Speculation on Wal-Mart’s ambitions for the Russian market returned today (14 May) with claims that the world’s largest retailer is in initial talks to buy local retailer Lenta.

A Reuters report, citing sources with “first-hand knowledge of the matter”, claimed Wal-Mart had a “genuine interest” in Lenta and that talks had been going on since the start of the year.

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Claims of “pretty informal” talks are the latest rumours to surround Wal-Mart and the fledgling organised retail market in Russia.

The US retail giant has been linked with Lenta and other Russian grocers in the past but has refused to comment publicly on its interest in any local retailers. Wal-Mart established its office in Moscow in 2008 to study entry into Russia. 

The company told just-food last week that the retailer was looking for “appropriate” means to enter Russia and refused to rule out buying a local chain or opening its own stores in the country.

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