SPAR has strengthened its partnership with local fresh fruit and vegetable suppliers and boosted the availability of Slovenian products in SPAR stores nationwide through a long-term cooperation agreement with the agricultural cooperative Agraria Koper.

SPAR Slovenia’s customers purchased more local fruit and vegetables in 2021, with sales increasing by 11% compared to the previous year. To further boost the purchase of domestic fresh produce, SPAR Slovenia on 28 March signed a long-term contract with Agraria Koper, an agricultural cooperative founded 70 years ago. The production areas of the 120 subcontractors involved stretch from Ankaran to the Dragonja Valley. On an annual basis, Agraria Koper produces over 1,500 tonnes of fruits and vegetables. This new cooperation agreement is just one example of SPAR Slovenia’s long-term partnerships with domestic suppliers.

The cooperation agreement gives SPAR Slovenia a competitive advantage in purchasing locally produced fruit and vegetables from the agricultural cooperative.

Sourcing local, sustainable food is better for the environment, provides jobs and promotes rural and local development. SPAR Slovenia connects its customers with local suppliers through its ‘This is us’ project. As much as 70% of the products sold in SPAR stores is of Slovenian origin, which supports sustainable and eco-friendly methods of food production, shopping, and consumption.

“We have had an excellent cooperation agreement with Agraria from the start, and in recent years we have become their main partner. Every year, we increase the purchase of their crops. Last year it was 30% higher than in 2020. This means that we are fulfilling our commitment to offering products of Slovenian origin in our stores. At the same time, we are actively supporting Slovenian producers, offering quality food, reducing our carbon footprint, and shortening transport routes”, said Uroš Lozej, SPAR Slovenia’s Head of Food Purchasing.

Source: SPAR Slovenia

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About SPAR Slovenia

SPAR Slovenia, operated by ASPIAG (Austria SPAR International AG), was founded in 1991. ASPIAG is a subsidiary of SPAR Austria AG. SPAR has become a key employer in the country. A Distribution Centre, bakery, and corporate-owned stores provide employment opportunities.

SPAR Slovenia operates three store formats: SPAR, SPAR Supermarkets, and INTERSPAR Hypermarkets. The brand is one of the most trusted companies in the country. Nielsen research has placed SPAR first in terms of freshness, quality, and range. The SPAR Bakery has played a vital role in the overall fresh offer in Slovenia and has received excellent customer feedback.