It’s been a busy first quarter for SPAR Georgia with the partner already having opened nine new company-owned stores. This strong performance follows on from a successful year in 2018, which saw a sales growth of 89.7%.

A recap of 2018

Store numbers grew by more than half in 2018 – increasing from 42 in 2017 to 110 by year-end. This rapid growth, brought about by both the conversion of existing formats and the sub-licensing of independent retailers, led to the creation of nearly 2,000 new jobs. As such, a strong focus was placed on developing the retail skills of employees by offering scholarship programmes to support knowledge generation.

The development of a new Distribution Centre complemented the growth of the retail network, ensuring high standards of service to all SPAR outlets. Brand awareness was increased through innovative marketing campaigns and digital platforms. One example was the introduction of a SPAR food truck at public events in local communities.

In addition to supporting local charities throughout the year, SPAR Georgia helped raise funds for the refurbishment of an autism centre for children – the first of its kind in the Caucasus region.

Looking ahead

Ongoing expansion of the retail network is planned for the remainder of 2019 with the aim of opening 58 additional stores by year-end – nearing the goal of having 200 stores spread across the country. Another focus this year is the launch of delivery and collect services, in line with current retail trends.

Source: SPAR Georgia

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About SPAR Georgia

The SPAR Partner in Georgia is Foodmart, an existing food retailer with a strong and successful business. The licence to operate the brand was granted to SPAR Georgia by SPAR International in early 2014. SPAR was launched in the country later that year, with the opening of three supermarkets in one day in the capital city, Tbilisi.

SPAR Georgia has focused on offering a good selection of fresh produce and traditional Georgian bakery products, complemented by a localised Food-to-Go proposal. The stores also include SPAR Own Brand ranges, baby food ranges, increased grocery lines, and non-food departments.