Spar’s new Greek venture Spar Hellas says it plans to create the largest chain of independent food retailers in the country.
The company said in a statement it will develop more than 350 stores nationwide over the next four years, offering up to 1400 Spar Own Brand products, with many sourced from Greek producers and suppliers.
Spar International already has 12,500 stores in 44 countries and annual sales of almost €33.1 billion.
“The combination of Greek retailers’ excellent local knowledge with Spar’s international best practice and global brand will result in innovative store layouts for the customer, excellent fresh products, a wide range of private label products and value for money,” said Fivos Karakitsos, CEO of Spar Hellas.
“High-levels of customer service will be delivered through continuous staff training programs. Spar partners will build on their traditional roots, creating a strong family-focused business which is unique in the Greek market.”
The company said a strategic cooperation between Spar Hellas and the Asteras association will see the rebranding of almost 200 stores under the Spar banner. To build its capabilities and resources further, Asteras has entered into a joint cooperation with the MESIS association, which leads to a group with more than 500 stores across Greece and a reported €700 million in sales.
The first 10 Spar stores are due to launch in Greece by July while Spar Hellas aims to operate 80 stores by the end of this year. The network will grow both by the conversion of Asteras stores and by Spar Hellas opening new, company-owned stores.
