Dutch retailer Ahold anticipates further growth in its private label business as it explores new options for right-sizing stores in its American banners, Dick Boer, chief executive officer at Ahold, said in a recent quarterly earnings discussion with analysts.

Despite the potential volatility of the American market, the company plans to focus on growing its American customer base by finding new ways to expand its private label selection as trading down the price chain by its customers becomes more common, he said. The company also plans to develop more U.S. formats. 

Ahold's overall net income hit $425 million for the quarter, up 6.2 percent from $398.7 million last year. The company's overall income was affected by inflation in the European market. Net sales reached $7.6 billion, up 7.4 percent.  Ahold owns Giant Foods, Martin’s, Peapod and Stop & Shop in the States.