2025 marks a century of excellence for EK Retail. A symbolic anniversary for the European multisector cooperative that reaffirms its vision of a modern, human, and solidarity-based retail. At a time when challenges are intensifying for independent retail, EK has chosen to make its centenary a statement of intent: to continue moving forward, together, with boldness.
Founded in 1925 under the name EWELI by three visionary merchants from Westphalia, EK Retail has continuously evolved to become a key player in European commerce. Today, nearly 4,000 retailers across Europe operate under the banner of this unique cooperative, built on collective intelligence, the strength of the network, and the spirit of partnership.
In the words of its CEO Martin Richrath, who has led the group since January 2023, EK Retail does not see this centenary as a culmination but as a springboard: “We rely on our roots to better anticipate the future. In 2025, we want to celebrate our successes, but above all build the retail of tomorrow, with our partners.”
The anniversary year, placed under the sign of the organization’s three founding pillars, confirms what makes EK’s strength and uniqueness: its ability to put people at the center, to cultivate relationships, and to move forward with the times.
“The heart of EK beats thanks to those who bring it to life every day – retailers, suppliers, employees – united by deep values of respect, fairness, and trust. This human dimension flourishes in an ecosystem of constant exchanges: whether through professional meetings, think tanks, or study trips, every shared moment strengthens the collective and nurtures common intelligence. EK is also a spirit in motion, a cooperative attentive to the world’s changes, able to innovate, adapt, and always stay tuned to consumer expectations. A vibrant and committed dynamic, forward-looking, faithful to its roots and open to tomorrow.”
A cooperative dynamic at the service of independent retailers
At EK, members are not just clients. They are active participants in a network, bearers of strong values and an impressive capacity for adaptation. Jochen Pohle, Head of Retail Operations, highlights the agility of these specialized retailers: “Their expertise, their local roots, and their sense of service have proven their resilience, even in turbulent times.” And in the face of major economic upheavals, EK remains true to its mission: to strengthen the competitiveness of independent retailers by offering them far more than products: concepts, tools, and real shared know-how.
Its key figures reflect the vitality of its activity: 3,800 business partners, 6,000 contractual suppliers, and total sales reaching €2 billion (with €4 billion in external sales).
In short, a century after its creation, EK Retail has lost nothing of its original strength. As Martin Richrath concludes: “The founders would be proud to see what their project has become: a powerful, human cooperative, turned towards the future.”
EK in France
EK France is the French subsidiary of the German cooperative group EK/servicegroup, which operates in France through the Culinarion (since 1972) and Ambiance & Styles (since 1995) brands. In France, EK develops a local approach based on proximity, innovation, and the strength of the collective. The group actively supports the modernization of retail through strategic partnerships and retail concepts adapted to the realities of the French market.
EK France thus positions itself as a benchmark player for independent retailers wishing to strengthen their competitiveness in a rapidly changing environment. “Our mission is to support the group’s stores by providing them with services, tools, and operational excellence,” says Daniela Dalla Valle, Managing Director of EK France, who has launched numerous initiatives since her arrival in 2023 to unlock the full potential of the Culinarion and Ambiance & Styles brands.
In June 2025, EK France received the Franchise & Associated Commerce Award from L’Express for the Culinarion brand for its growth model.
