The INTERSPAR store in Zalaegerszeg was recently reopened after extensive renovations including a spacious new layout, the addition of a SPAR-to-Go restaurant and the implementation of energy-efficient lighting and equipment. SPAR Hungary invested nearly €3.4 million in the store renovation project.

“As the standard of living in Hungary increases, a new type of retail market has emerged. On-going store expansions and renovations will determine who will succeed in the Hungarian retail industry over the next 10 years. Customer demands have pushed SPAR to pursue a strategy of modernising its older stores, using cutting-edge designs and technologies,” explained Márk Maczelka, Head of Communications at SPAR Hungary.

The region of Western Hungary, including Zalaegerszeg and its surrounds have significant purchasing power and the INTERSPAR Hypermarket has served customers for 17 years. The construction work began in November 2016 with unchanged business hours. It was closed from January to April for the final overhaul, before reopening on 6 April. The extensive project focused on introducing a SPAR-to-Go restaurant to the INTERSPAR, offering freshly prepared warm meals, such as pizza, grilled dishes, fried dishes, sandwiches, salads, soft drinks and coffee.

The 4,230m² retail selling area was not enlarged but its appearance and layout were significantly changed. The separate glass return point was disassembled, the warehouse re-painted and tiles replaced. New refrigerator chambers were also installed in the back of the store. Furthermore, the shelves and counters were transformed in line with a Scandinavian interior design concept, creating an innovative environment, complying with modern customer demands.

This year, SPAR Hungary will spend more than €741 million on the continuous expansion of its retail network with the renovation of 24 stores and the opening of five new ones.