SPAR Hungary is creating a new regional partnership programme for small-scale domestic producers and businesses. The SPAR country operator is investing €4.75 million into the ‘Regional Treasures’ programme to integrate at least 100 suppliers and stimulate employment opportunities.

Six regional supplier centres

Building on local facilities and capacities, SPAR Hungary will establish six regional supplier centres in major cities during the last quarter of 2021. The new supplier programme is to include between ten and 13 SPAR stores near the six regional centres. The stores will be selected based on customer and sales data, product range, logistics, and turnover.

The regional system provides opportunities for new small suppliers and expands SPAR’s relationship with existing small-scale production partners. In addition, it will boost local economies and stimulate customer demand for local products.

The initiative also seeks to shorten transport routes and contribute to more sustainable farming, production, and supply chain practices. The ‘Regional Treasures’ initiative will create 23 new jobs at SPAR Hungary by the end of 2022. Moreover, it is likely to increase the number of employment opportunities at partnering suppliers.

Cooperation with local suppliers

SPAR Hungary is looking for smaller Hungarian ‘local hero’ suppliers and producers that offer affordable, high-quality domestic products and ensure long-term sustainable product availability.

The SPAR country operator has created a separate online interface for suppliers interested in joining the SPAR supplier family. On SPAR Hungary’s dedicated page, it is easy for suppliers to apply online. Additionally, SPAR Hungary is setting up a Supplier Academy, supporting partnering suppliers with quality assurance, logistics, warehousing, and marketing training.

“Our priority is to support Hungarian producers and businesses as well as the Hungarian agriculture. We are proud that we already source almost 90% of our food products from domestic suppliers. The ‘Regional Treasures’ initiative provides small family businesses and sole proprietorships selling locally produced agricultural products a powerful support system”, says Márk Maczelka, Head of Communications at SPAR Hungary.

Customer communication

For customers, it will be easy to recognise the local products instore as shelves and displays are to feature an eye-catching layout showcasing the ‘Regional Treasures’ red apple logo. More information on the programme and the participating suppliers is available on SPAR Hungary’s website.

Source: SPAR Hungary

Read more about SPAR in 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 developing the country’s retail industry.

The licensing of independent retailers to operate the SPAR Brand in Hungary has proven successful. The retailers benefit from access to SPAR own brand products and expertise, while consumers enjoy the increased number of store locations. SPAR Hungary is one of the country’s largest employers, with 17,881 team members.