SPAR Hungary reported turnover of HUF 1 trillion for 2023, representing an increase of 15.79% over the previous year, with 641 stores operating under the SPAR brand at years-end. During the year, five new stores were opened and a further four were modernised at an investment of around HUF 10 billion. Since entering the market in 1991, SPAR has invested a total of HUF 539 billion in Hungary up to the end of 2023.

When combining the company operations and the independent retailer operated stores, around 17,000 people are employed in SPAR in Hungary. The number of independently-run stores grew by a further 25 in 2023, ending the year at 273 stores. The continuing interest by retailers in this model reflects the strong programme of support available from SPAR Hungary which enables the independent retailers to operate modern, professionally-run stores. 

Investment in retail network

In 2023, SPAR Hungary invested almost HUF 10 billion into opening modern, high-quality stores. The biggest development of the past year took place in Debrecen, where the city’s second INTERSPAR Hypermarket opened its doors at an investment of HUF 3 billion. SPAR Supermarkets were opened in Sárospatak and Békéscsaba, in addition to two stores in Budapest with the total investment being around HUF 2.4 billion. In addition to opening new stores, SPAR Hungary also invested again in modernisation of its retail network. The SPAR Supermarket in Körmend and four stores in Budapest were renovated at a cost of a further almost HUF 4.5 billion. 

Evolving online retail

SPAR Hungary also offers customers the SPAR online platform which was launched in 2019 and which grew further in 2023, now being available in over 200 locations. Customers can choose from over 14,000 products listed on the platform and since August 2023, shoppers can choose to receive their orders in paper bags or without packaging.  

Embracing local suppliers

SPAR Hungary gives opportunities for local suppliers sell their products in stores nationwide. The fourth season of the Hungaricool competition saw 179 businesses offering 301 products apply. 37 new products from nine winning brands became available on the shelves of INTERSPAR Hypermarkets by year end. 

The Regional Treasures (Régiók Kincsei) programme, launched in 2021, provides market access opportunities for domestic small producers. As a first step, SPAR Hungary established regional centres in six large cities to shorten the supply chain. From 2023, domestic small businesses, producers, craft companies, and small wineries were also introduced in Budapest.  

Community spirit

A longstanding partnership between SPAR Hungary and th the Hungarian Maltese Charity Service again saw many people in need receiving support. School supplies and donation cards were made available at the start of the school year and the company donated HUF1 million in support. The Giving Joy! Christmas campaign was strongly supported, leading to almost 200 tonnes of food collected which were made up into 25,000 gift packages. Millions of HUF were also donated which was used to purchase food gift packs.  

Sustainability as a strategic goal

In line with the company’s sustainability goals, investment continues to be made in energy-saving fixtures during construction and renovation of stores. This includes the integration of LED lighting, installing photovoltaic systems where possible and using energy-efficient commercial cooling systems. Food waste reduction is a core focus in SPAR Hungary’s stores and consumers can also support this through a food rescue platform partnership.

The joint publication of Nestlé Hungária and SPAR Hungary Tervezz okosan!, which is available at no cost through the online interfaces of both companies, provides consumers advice on avoiding food waste and on sustainable diets. 

The retailer used digital solutions to reduce the paper-based administration required for the operation of the stores. Thanks to these measures, nearly 14 tonnes less paper was used in 2023. The company advised in 2023 that it used 70% less plastic through the use of new, innovative, vacuum foil packaging of its S-BUDGET minced meat. SPAR Hungary saved 59 tonnes of plastic packaging material for part of its deliveries to stores by using roller tarps that can be reused. 

Source: SPAR Hungary 

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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. SPAR Hungary is one of the country’s largest employers, with a network of company-owned and independently run stores operating nationwide.