Simple Mart and OKmart set to share retail platform as restructuring draws franchisee attention

Taiwanese neighbourhood retail brands Simple Mart and OKmart are set for a change in their organisational structure. According to a report published by Business Today on 24 September 2026, Simple Mart’s parent company, Simple Mart Retail, announced that its board had approved a restructuring plan under which both brands would operate under Fuda Retail. For the franchise community, the key development is the integration of the operating platform, rather than a merger of the two brands.

Retail operations to transfer to a wholly owned subsidiary

At a press conference announcing material information, Simple Mart Retail said it would transfer the assets, liabilities and operations associated with its retail channels — including Simple Mart, Xinpu Market, Simple Mart Convenience Shelves and Go Simple Mart — to its wholly owned subsidiary, Fuda Retail, through a demerger.

The effective date of the demerger is provisionally set for 1 January 2027. The word ‘provisional’ matters: although the board has approved the restructuring plan, the proposed demerger should not be treated as an organisational change that has already taken place.

The arrangement involves transferring retail assets, liabilities and operations, rather than simply changing the sign above an individual shop. When reviewing subsequent announcements, franchise operators should distinguish between three levels: the group structure, brand operations and individual franchise agreements.

Parent company to become an investment holding company

Under the announced plan, following the demerger Simple Mart Retail will become Zhonglian Investment Holdings Co., Ltd. Its stock code will remain 2945, and its focus will shift to group-wide operational planning and investment in smart retail.

The division of responsibilities between the parent company and the retail operating platform is therefore central to the restructuring. An unchanged stock code does not mean the organisational arrangements for the underlying businesses will remain the same. Equally, the parent company’s transformation should not be interpreted as a wholesale change to how stores operate.

Both brands to retain their distinct positioning

Simple Mart Retail said that Simple Mart and OKmart would operate under the same retail business platform, Fuda Retail, while retaining their respective brand positioning and integrating resources more closely. At this stage, the confirmed direction is a shared platform alongside continued brand differentiation.

Anyone considering a neighbourhood retail franchise should not assume that franchise terms, store support or day-to-day operating requirements will be identical simply because both brands sit under the same platform. Comparisons should still be based on each brand’s formal offer and contractual terms, rather than the group name alone.

Franchise assessments must distinguish structure from terms

The restructuring sets out a clear direction for the group, but franchise decisions still need to be based on the details of each business arrangement. Existing franchisees can ask head office whether the restructuring will affect their points of contact, contracting entity or support arrangements. Prospective franchisees should ask each brand for an itemised explanation of the investment required to open a store and their ongoing operational responsibilities.

The practical takeaway: treat 1 January 2027 as a provisional milestone and continue to monitor official announcements. Whether considering Simple Mart or OKmart, verify each brand’s contracts and costs separately. A shared operating platform does not mean identical franchise terms.