French supermarket groups Auchan and Intermarché have opened the first two converted outlets under their partnership, with former Auchan stores in Maurepas and Blanquefort switching banners. The 1,274m2 Maurepas store became an Intermarché Express, generating annual sales of EUR7.54 million and less than EUR6,000 per m2. Blanquefort generates around EUR8,000 per m2. The stores are among 72 Auchan supermarkets being transferred to Intermarché members. (LSA)