Within only 3.5 months, SPAR Croatia’s latest and 100th SPAR Supermarket was developed in the town of Novi Marof. The very modern exterior of the store contrasts with the warm wood tones used instore. The diversity, richness and uniqueness of the SPAR offer are reflected in the wide selection of food and non-food items. Local sourcing remains an important pillar of SPAR Croatia’s overall strategy, and the export of Croatian products through the SPAR sales network is growing steadily.

Store highlights include the fresh fish market, a butchery, local specialties, an extensive choice of fruit and vegetables and hot dishes with a large selection of ready meals. Four quick cash registers have been set up for easier shopping. Spacious parking for 91 cars ensures all customers can easily access the store. 24 new jobs were created, with the team recruited from the local community. Support for the community also saw the Fire Brigade receiving a donation to improve their facilities and modernise their work tools.

The opening ceremony was attended by Mayor Siniša Jenkač, who, together with Helmut Fenzl, President of SPAR Croatia’s Management Board, cut the ribbon and formally put into operation the 100th SPAR Supermarket in the country.

Local sourcing

It is known that cooperation with local suppliers is integral to SPAR so numerous producers have been contracted to deliver to the store. The local producer Martinjak supplies fresh red meat, while the Šafran winery, Euro-milk providing dairy products under the S-Budget brand, and ZMH Horvat which offers frozen meat, were given the opportunity to present their products on the shelves of SPAR Supermarkets.

Export of Croatian products

The export of Croatian products through the SPAR sales network to foreign markets has been continuously increasing, amounting to €49 million in the first six months. This represents an increase of 3% despite the pandemic compared to the same period in 2020, which was a record year in terms of total exports.

“At SPAR Croatia, we are proud that, in addition to large ones, small producers are increasingly breaking into European markets. The continuous increase in sales of Croatian products is another confirmation of their quality, which European customers know how to recognise”, said Helmut Fenzl.

Source: SPAR Croatia

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About SPAR Croatia

The first SPAR store opened in Croatia in 2005, following the licence agreement between ASPIAG (Austrian SPAR International AG) and SPAR International in 2004.

As a member of the ASPIAG group, SPAR Croatia can access a wide range of own brand products. Brand development has primarily taken place through SPAR Supermarkets and INTERSPAR Hypermarkets, both through the take-over of existing chains and opening new stores.