In consultation with the Hungarian Chamber of Agriculture (HCA), SPAR Hungary is reviewing which departments could increase the volume produce sold from local suppliers. The goal is to increase the quantity and quality of products found in SPAR stores nationwide sourced from the Hungarian food industry. There is a particular focus on fresh products, including fruits and vegetables, dairy products, poultry and meat.

With SPAR Hungary operating over 500 stores and employing more than 13,000 people, they are willing to offer open forums for producers and manufacturers to improve collaboration across product categories.

“SPAR Magyarország and the Hungarian Chamber of Agriculture have had an excellent relationship for many years. The basis of our partnership is trust which has been embodied in many common activities supporting Hungarian agriculture in the recent period. During its nearly thirty years of operation in Hungary, SPAR has contributed to the success of domestic suppliers. Currently, we purchase more than 90% of the food products available on our shelves from Hungary, of which we are very proud,” said Gabrielle Heiszler, CEO of SPAR Hungary.

Tamás Éder, National Vice President of HCA responsible for Food Industry, said: “Coronavirus has pointed out exponentially how important it is to give preference to domestic products. Our endeavour is that the market sales opportunities of domestic producers becomes more effective and they come to the fore better than at present.”

 For both existing and potential suppliers, retailers, and consumers, co-operating to shorten the supply chain and create direct connections where possible brings significant price, quality, and organisational benefits. Through these agreements, production can be more easily forecast and managed more efficiently, with stores being provided with the expected consistency and quality of products. In return, stores can provide a reliable and secure market for the manufacturers and producers.

Source: SPAR Hungary

Read more news from SPAR Hungary.

About SPAR Hungary

The first SPAR Supermarket opened in Hungary in 1992, following the acquisition by ASPIAG (Austria SPAR International AG) of a majority stake in General Kereskedelmi Rt. Since its launch, SPAR Hungary has been actively involved in the development of the retail industry in the country.

The move to license independent retailers to operate the SPAR Brand has proven successful for Hungary, with new stores meeting the needs of a larger number of shoppers. The retailers benefit from becoming part of the SPAR organisation with access to own brand products, operating systems and the brand, whilst consumers enjoy the increased number of store locations.