The strike at Albert Heijn distribution centres has cost the supermarket group some €35-45 million, broadcaster NOS said on Friday, quoting research by data company Hiiper.

The figures were derived from comparing sales in the last seven days of the strike  with the previous week, NOS said.

Distribution centre staff went on strike on April 23 in support of more pay and better working conditions and the effect has been felt widely, particularly in the fresh fruit and vegetables and dairy sections.

The strike has now been called off pending the restart of negotiations. However, a spokesman for the supermarket group told Nu.nl it will be several days before the shelves are fully restocked again.

Hiiper said other supermarkets had profited from the strike, with Plus and Coop appearing to benefit most. AH has some 35% of the Dutch market, followed by Jumbo on 21.5%, according to market research group NielsenIQ.

Parent company Ahold Delhaize booked sales of €85 billion last year.