Companhia Sulamericana de Distribuição
A tale of two families
The state of Paraná in southern Brazil was where gold prospectors settled in the 16th century; today it has lost none of its appeal. The region offers a high standard of living and a deep-rooted interest in protecting its past – a fitting stage for the prosperous union of two family-owned businesses.
Companhia Sulamericana de Distribuição (‘CSD’) was founded in February 2010 by the merger of two supermarket chains – São Francisco and Cidade Canção. Mr Valdir Nogaroli (founder of São Francisco) and Mr Manuel Marques Cardoso (founder of Cidade Canção) had been competitors for nearly 20 years, but a mutual respect for each other made the merger possible. With attractive locations and high market shares, CSD has established a strong reputation for competitive prices, client service, and high-quality perishable products.
Since Actis’s investment in September 2010, CSD has expanded through new store openings, the construction of a new distribution centre and selected acquisitions. It now operates more than 35 stores in 17 cities, not just in the state of Paraná but further afield in Mato Grosso do Sul and São Paulo.
Actis has also been working with CSD to implement best practices in health and safety, food management and environmental management.
