Slovenian retailer Mercator said it was able to reverse “negative business trends” in 2013 when it reported profits that “significantly improved” over the year.

In an earnings update, the company said it has halted the decline in operating earnings witnessed in recent years. EBITDA was flat year-on-year, totalling EUR107.4m (US$145.2m) in the 12 months to the end of December. Excluding costs associated with the proposed sale of the business and its debt refinancing, Mercator emphasised operating profit would have been “significantly” higher.

While Mercator was able to improve its profitability over the year, the Balkans retailer said that its top line came under pressure from lower household spending, structural changes in buying patterns and restructuring moves. As a result, revenues fell 3.7% year-on-year, dropping to EUR2.8bn.

Mercator is lined up to be taken over by Croatian rival Agrokor. Last November, Slovenia’s competition watchdog gave the green light to Agrokor’s plan to buy 51% of Mercator. Croatia’s anti-trust authorities are still scrutinising the deal.

Click here to view the release from the company. 

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.