SPAR Switzerland continues to expand its position in the country’s growing forecourt business. In March, two SPAR Express stores were opened in Langenthal and Pratteln in cooperation with AVIA and Autogrill.

SPAR Express store in Langenthal

The latest state-of-the-art SPAR Express opened on 25 March in Langenthal. AVIA, the largest forecourt operator in Switzerland, manages the site. Customers can find both a balanced range of products meeting daily needs and a selection of fresh goods. A delicatessen counter offers cheeses and meat specialties; bread is baked throughout the day and there is also a great choice of fruit and vegetables.

A highlight of the store is the bistro corner with several seating areas as well as a self-service offering. A team of eight operate the store and ensure compliance with COVID-19 regulations.

The opening of the new store follows the acquisition of 60 AVIA forecourt stores from Store Service AG as of 1 January 2021.

Forecourt store in Pratteln

After a one-month reconstruction, the modernised and converted SPAR Express forecourt store in Pratteln reopened on 4 March. On a sales area of 120m² the store offers a wide range of fresh products. In addition to fruit and vegetables, there are numerous dairy products, cheese and meat on offer. Fresh flowers, souvenirs and confectionery items are also available. In the trendy coffee corner, customers can enjoy take-away snacks and fresh Italian coffee. Once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted, shoppers will be able to also enjoy coffee and treats instore.

“We are available for our customers 24/7, 365 days a year, and offer them everyday items as part of our fast, time-independent shopping option”, said Martin Koco, Manager of the new SPAR Express store.

SPAR Switzerland is expanding its successful collaboration with motorway service area operator Autogrill with this opening. The collaboration launched with the acquisition of the BP forecourt store in the Forrenberg motorway service area in Seuzach near Zurich.

Source: SPAR Switzerland

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About SPAR Switzerland

SPAR Switzerland was founded in 1989; in 2000, the family-owned business was transformed into a holding company with three operating companies. The business grew, combining corporate and independently owned stores, spanning forecourt retailing to large supermarkets.

In early 2016, SPAR Switzerland announced the sale of 60% of shares to SPAR Group Ltd, South Africa. The remaining 40% was purchased in March 2021 by SPAR Group Ltd.