German retailer Rewe has declined to confirm that it is planning to expand its bulk cash and carry stores, Selgros, into Russia. However, the group told just-food, the format is proving highly successful in eastern European markets.
Russian media reports have suggested that the company plans to work with a Russian retailer, Marta Holding, to enter the market. Rewe already operates a Russian JV chain, Billa, with Marta Holding.
Rewe is reportedly planning to open its first Russian cash and carry store in Moscow next year and has begun negotiating contracts with various suppliers. The target is to open 50 Selgros outlets in the next 20-years, Russian newspapers have said.
While Rewe declined to comment on expansion plans, a spokesperson for the company did highlight the success of the Selgros banner outside of Germany.
“We are very pleased with the performance of our cash and carry business throughout Europe. This is especially the case for markets like Romania, where the Selgros chain has produced very strong growth,” the spokesman commented.
Rewe currently operates this format in Germany, Poland and Romania.
