Press releases

As many as 417 initiatives were accepted for the second stage of competition for PLN 1.5 million in grants in the competition “Local heroes - 100 initiatives of entrepreneurs on the 100th anniversary of independence”. Most projects were reported in Małopolska, Mazovia and Lower Silesia. The strong interest in participating in the Eurocash project confirms that the owners of small format stores are strongly involved in the life of local communities.

The competition is designed to help retailers maintain good relationships with local communities. Research previously carried out on behalf of Eurocash showed that in addition to a good offer, it is good relations that are necessary for the development of small format stores. We know that running a store is not just a business. That is why, among others, through the Eurocash Academy of Skills, the eHurt platform for remote management of orders and store finances and the loyalty program Delikarta, we want to give entrepreneurs the knowledge, time and tools necessary to strengthen relations with local communities.

The initiatives submitted show that these relationships are most often built through sport, the development of common space and involvement in cultural life. However, there is no shortage of entrepreneurs who want to help communities, for example by supporting people with disabilities or environmental initiatives.

Who will ultimately receive the grant will be decided by Internet users voting, which will take place through the website www.herosiprzedsiebiorci.pl between 15 August and 14 October this year

Jacek Owczarek, Member of the Management Board of Eurocash Group

Eurocash Group is the largest Polish company engaged in wholesale distribution of food products and marketing support for independent Polish entrepreneurs conducting retail activities. Franchise and partner networks supported by Eurocash bring together almost 15 thousand independent stores operating under brands such as abc, Groszek, Delikatesy Centrum, Lewiatan, Euro Sklep and Gama.

In Poland, more and more milk reaches consumers through the organized market, which means that farms sell less and less milk directly or consume for their own needs. The main role in this market is played by dairies and retail stores, through which products reach consumers. Today, about 70% of milk in Poland is distributed through large format stores, mainly large discount chains and supermarkets. Therefore, the analysts of the Eurocash Group and the Polish Chamber of Commerce decided to look at the distribution and pricing strategies of the largest milk producers in Poland.

Analysts compiled the results of the ten largest manufacturers (by sales value). Each of them was awarded points in five areas: price, distribution, market share, contribution to growth and dedicated products. Each of these areas has its specific weight in the final result of the manufacturer. The more points a manufacturer has scored, the more balanced its distribution and pricing strategy is towards different types of stores. That is, such a manufacturer does not discriminate against anyone by diversifying the assortment offer and prices.

The results of the ranking of dairy producers due to their strategies applied to small format stores:

1. OSM RADOMSKO 92
2. OSM KRASNYSTAW 86
3. MILKPOL 84
4. TOTAL 74
5. OSM WART-MILK 58
6. MILKY 56
7. OSM HUNTER 46
8. POLLMILK 37
9. EIGHTH FRIDAY 36
10. MÜLLER DAIRY 28

The first two places are occupied by dairies, whose products can rarely be purchased at discount stores, and if there are, then the prices for their assortment do not differ significantly from those in small-scale stores. OSM Radomsko (milk “Ale!” , “Good!” , “Hey!”) and OSM Krasnystaw (“Your Health”) primarily focus on selling in their home regions and maintaining a good offer in all types of stores, including independent retail. The promotion of sales in discount stores is not properly organized by the entire top five of the ranking. Mlekpol, the largest milk producer in Poland (“Łaciate”, “Białe”, “Zambrowskie”, “Mazurski Smak”), uses comparable prices throughout the rook, although it also happens to have promotions for some products in discount stores.

Flavoured milks still have a small but rapidly growing share of the Polish market. Of the two manufacturers included in the ranking, specializing in such a range, the clear sales leader is Müller Dairy (“Müllermilch”), which, however, does not follow a sustainable sales strategy and closes the list. Zott (“Monte Drink”, “Heart”) performed better, which took 4th place in the ranking.

Places 5-10 are occupied by manufacturers who are intensively promoted in discount stores. Often their assortment is exhibited there as products of first choice or their purchase in larger quantities is rewarded with a lower price. This applies to the leading players on the market — Mlekovita and OSM Piątnica, the medium-sized ones — OSM Łowicz and Polmlek and the manufacturer of flavored milk Müller Dairy.

- Euromonitor forecasts predict that milk sales in Poland in the next 5 years will grow, despite the decline in population. We believe that independent retail could have a significant share of this growth. It must be treated fairly by all producers. — says Jacek Owczarek, member of the board of the Eurocash Group.

Compared to last year's ranking, Mlekovita (“Mlekovita”, “Polskie”, “Twój Kubek”, “Wypasione”, “Wydojone”) improved its results the most, rising from ninth to sixth place. The biggest drop in the ranking was recorded by Polmlek (“Uchate”, “Mild”), which was third, and now is seventh.

- In small-format stores, as in discount stores and hypermarkets, sales promotions and educational campaigns can be organized, which affect the eating habits of Poles. It is important that all major manufacturers do not ignore the opportunities and needs of independent retailers and their customers — says Waldemar Nowakowski, President of the Polish Chamber of Commerce.

The “Equal in Business” ranking was prepared by Eurocash Group analysts based on data held by the research agency Nielsen for the period from August 2017 to July 2018. It is a joint initiative of the Eurocash Group, the leader in the wholesale distribution of FMCG products in Poland, and the Polish Chamber of Commerce, the largest retail and services representative in our country.

Eurocash Group is the largest Polish company engaged in wholesale distribution of food products and marketing support for independent Polish entrepreneurs conducting retail activities. Franchise and partner networks supported by Eurocash bring together almost 15 thousand independent stores operating under brands such as abc, Groszek, Delikatesy Centrum, Lewiatan, Euro Sklep and Gama.

Small-format stores sell more than half of the carbonated drinks purchased throughout Poland. Although consumers most often reach for drinks from the American companies Coca-Cola and Pepsico, it is not these two manufacturers that care the most about equal treatment of customers of these stores. Such conclusions can be drawn from the latest “Equal in Business” ranking, in which the Eurocash Group and the Polish Chamber of Commerce evaluate the ten largest companies offering carbonated drinks in Poland in terms of sales value.

This year, the producer most interested in ensuring the availability and equal prices of carbonated drinks in different types of stores is Jurajska from Postępu near Myszków. It is used by supporters of such brands of this company as: Jurajska, Krzyś, Siup! and Clever Zby. In second place was the Czech Kofola, which offers Hoop, Jupi and Mr. Max drinks in our country. On the lowest step of the podium was the company Zbyszko from Radom, known for its brands Zbyszko 3 Cytryny, Roko, Polo Cockta and Maxer. Two other Polish producers are at the forefront: Victoria Cymes from Wałcz and Ustronianka from Ustronia. The weakest ratings were obtained by foreign giants: the aforementioned Coca-Cola Company, Pepsico and the last in the comparison, the Japanese Suntory with the brands Orangina and Schweppes.

- Small-format stores currently have a very strong influence on the growth of sales of carbonated drinks in cans and bottles up to one liter and on the effects of the promotion of taste novelties. Over the past years, in each such store, the average number of different variants of carbonated drinks has increased. However, the commercial opportunities of these stores are not fully exploited by all manufacturers, which is lost to independent entrepreneurs, producers themselves and consumers — says Jacek Owczarek, Member of the Management Board of the Eurocash Group.

Results of the ranking of producers of carbonated drinks due to their strategies applied to small format stores:

1. JURASSIC 88
2. KOFOLA 64
3. ZBYSZKO 62
4. VICTORIA CYMES 60
5. PARTY 56
6. AMBER 56
7. COLIAN 54
8. COCA COLA COMPANY 44
9. PEPSICO 36
10. SUNTORY 33

The more points, the more balanced the strategy.

Compared to last year, the most visible is the consistent distribution and pricing policy of foreign concerns, which apply different strategies for small stores, discount stores and supermarkets. For the last two years, they have occupied the final places in the ranking of strategy equality, which at the same time does not prevent Coca-Cola Company and Pepsico from controlling 2/3 of the Polish market of carbonated drinks. Drops in the list by two places were recorded by Ambra, which in this category mainly offers children's soft drink Piccolo and the companies Victoria Cymes and Colian. The latter known from the brand of drinks Hellena. The biggest promotions in the list were recorded by Polish producers: Jurajska (by 5 positions) and Ustronianka (by 2 positions).

- It is characteristic that in a market dominated by Coca-Cola and Pesico, smaller players try to win with them by treating all sales channels equally. They keep prices in check and do not combine with the size of the packages. Thanks to the warm weather, it is very likely that this year, as in 2017, the number of transactions for the purchase of carbonated drinks in small-format stores will increase. Surely all manufacturers will benefit — says Waldemar Nowakowski, President of the Polish Chamber of Commerce.

The ranking was prepared by analysts of the Eurocash Group based on data from the research agency Nielsen for the period from June 2017 to May 2018. The results of the ten largest manufacturers (by sales value) are compared with each other. Each of them was awarded points in five areas: price, distribution, market share, contribution to growth and dedicated products. Each area was given an appropriate weight in the final result: price 20%, distribution 25%, market share 20%, contribution to growth 25% and dedicated products 10%. The final number of points that the manufacturer receives is the weighted average of the results of all these indicators.

The “Equal in Business” ranking is a joint initiative of the Eurocash Group, the leader in the wholesale distribution of FMCG products in Poland, and the Polish Chamber of Commerce, the largest representative of retail and services in our country.

Eurocash Group is the largest Polish company engaged in wholesale distribution of food products and marketing support for independent Polish entrepreneurs conducting retail activities. Franchise and partner networks supported by Eurocash bring together almost 15 thousand independent stores operating under brands such as abc, Groszek, Delikatesy Centrum, Lewiatan, Euro Sklep and Gama.

75 participants, 166 hours of classes in 10 congresses: this is how the first edition of the studies “Business Management in Retail” and “Academy of Business Management in Retail Trade” looked like in numbers. The Eurocash Group, together with the Warsaw School of Commerce, continues the initiative by launching the next edition of studies in the academic year 2018/2019.

This is the first postgraduate course in Poland on retail business management dedicated to entrepreneurs associated in networks organized by the Eurocash Group. The next edition starts in October.

— These studies are the first initiative in Poland, thanks to which a university and a company from the FMCG sector have developed a program aimed at owners of independent stores. The success of the first edition motivates us to continue our activities — the next studies will start in the academic year 2018/2019. Only franchisees of the Eurocash Group will take part: 41 people — said Agata Wrzecionowska-Dzierba. The Polish Chamber of Commerce received special patronage for the postgraduate studies “Enterprise Management in Retail Trade” at the Warsaw School of Commerce.

— The Academy of Skills has prepared a study program together with the Warsaw School of Commerce, guided by the needs and expectations of our Clients. Therefore, half of the lecturers at the university are recognized practitioners in the industry, whose experience is perfectly combined with the knowledge of the scientific staff — commented Agata Wrzecionowska-Dzierba, manager of the Eurocash Academy of Skills. Among the lecturers are: Prof. Dr. Elżbieta Mączyńska (President of the Polish Economic Society, SGH), Prof. Anna Skowronek-Mielczarek (SGH), Prof. Henryk Mruk (University of Economics in Poznań), Prof. Dr. Agnieszka Sopińska, Prof. Dr. Bogdan Mróz (SGH) Barbara Bojewska, Prof. Dr. Jan Klimek (SGH), Prof. Dr. Jacek Lipiec (SGH), Jacek Santorski (Social Psychologist and Business Psychologist, Program Director of the Academy of Leadership Psychology) and Marek Zuber (economist, market analyst).

— Running a store is really about managing a business, and for this you need knowledge, openness to the market and the ability to use the right tools to achieve business results. Therefore, we focus on education in the field of broadly understood management, commercial law, new trends in consumer behavior and succession in business — said Agata Wrzecionowska-Dzierba. — In the second edition, in response to the reported needs of the franchisees of the Eurocash Group, we will place greater emphasis on classes on consumer topics, personnel management and the aforementioned succession in business — summed up Agata Wrzecionowska-Dzierba.

The study program does not imply writing a thesis, but the development of a business plan that the student can put into practice. At the beginning of June this year, the first group of students presented their projects: most of them concerned the modernization or expansion of an existing store. The promoters were Dr. Marta Ziółkowska and Prof. Bogdan Mróz. All business plans were reviewed by Marek Zuber. The official conclusion of the first edition of postgraduate studies and the Academy of Business Management and the ceremonial presentation of certificates will take place on 21 September this year at the Warsaw School of Economics.

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The Eurocash Academy of Skills is the largest comprehensive educational and training program in Poland supporting Polish independent retail stores affiliated in the franchise and partner networks of the Eurocash Group. Within its framework, store owners and employees have access to a modern e-learning platform, workshops and conferences, thanks to which they can expand their knowledge in the field of work and management of a grocery store based on changing consumer trends.

In the period from September 2016 to August 2017 alone, a total of 13,500 store owners and employees took part in the conference and workshops within the Academy, and 14,000 people took advantage of the educational platform.

More information on www.akademiaeurocash.com.pl

Eurocash Group is the largest Polish company engaged in wholesale distribution of food products and marketing support for independent Polish entrepreneurs conducting retail activities. Franchise and partner networks supported by Eurocash bring together nearly 15 thousand independent stores operating under brands such as abc, Groszek, Delikatesy Centrum, Lewiatan, Euro Sklep and Gama.

Until the end of July this year, children of Eurocash Group employees and staff employed by its franchisees and partners can apply for the next edition of the Scholarship Program “Fulfill your dreams!”. As every year, the Eurocash Group Foundation will award up to 150 scholarships for high school students and students.

The aim of the initiative is to support particularly gifted children in the acquisition of knowledge and the development of talents, regardless of the field in which they relate. The Foundation promotes young people who are capable and at the same time hardworking and sensitive to the needs of others.

— Among the scholarship holders of the Eurocash Group there are pupils and students who can not only boast a high grade average, but also have won laurels for their sporting, artistic or scientific achievements. — commented Katarzyna Kopaczewska, President of the Eurocash Group Foundation. — At the same time, these capable people are characterized by empathy, as evidenced by the fact that they find time to be socially active and help others. It is precisely such capable and sensitive people who are sensitive to the needs of others that we especially support on the path of their development — added Katarzyna Kopaczewska.

During the five years of the Scholarship Programme, the Eurocash Group Foundation has financed almost 600 year-round scholarships for talented children of employees, franchisees and partners of the Eurocash Group. It is granted for one school or academic year, but those covered by the Foundation's support can apply for it again in subsequent years. Several scholarship holders qualified for the Program and received support up to five times. Scholarships will be paid monthly to the scholarship holder's account throughout the 2018/2019 school and academic year.

Eurocash Group is the largest Polish company engaged in wholesale distribution of food products and marketing support for independent Polish entrepreneurs conducting retail activities. Franchise and partner networks supported by Eurocash bring together almost 15 thousand independent stores operating under brands such as abc, Groszek, Delikatesy Centrum, Lewiatan, Euro Sklep and Gama.

Bottled water is one of the most purchased products in Poland and as a basic necessities item it is available literally in every grocery store. Despite this, not everywhere we will pay an identical price for water from the same manufacturer. You won't find a full offer everywhere either. In the next edition of the ranking of the largest companies offering bottled water in Poland, the Eurocash Group, together with the Polish Chamber of Commerce, assesses whether the strategies used by manufacturers do not diminish the importance of small-format stores.

Nałęczów Zdrój scored the most points in this year's edition of the “Righteous in Business” ranking, which is due to the fact that its product — Cisowianka water — is available in all types of stores for approximately the same price. Jurajska and Muszynianka were also on the podium.

“The high position of Muszynianka pleases the Entrepreneurs cooperating with us, who realize that it is the only producer in the ranking with production limitations. The mineral water comes from boreholes in Muszyn, located in the Poprad Landscape Park. Despite the growing demand, the manufacturer is not able to pour more water into bottles than natural conditions allow. However, this does not prevent it from maintaining a balanced distribution and pricing policy. Offers neighborhood stores purchase conditions no worse than discounters — emphasizes Jacek Owczarek, Member of the Management Board of the Eurocash Group.

In the top five producers treating all sales channels equally, Coca-Cola Company was also included with its most popular water Kropla Beskidu and Maspex, with Kubuś Waterrr water, which is especially loved by children. Manufacturers who favor large-scale trade and discounts scored the least points in the ranking. This group includes such market giants as Danone (Żywiec Zdrój, Dobrowianka, Vitalinea, Evian waters) and Nestle (including Nałęczowianka, Mazowszanka, Perrier, Vittel).

The ranking was prepared by the Eurocash Group based on data from the research agency Nielsen for the period from June 2017 to May 2018. The results of the ten largest manufacturers (by sales value) are compared with each other. Each was awarded points in five areas: price, distribution, market share, contribution to growth and dedicated products. Each area was given an appropriate weight in the final result: price 20%, distribution 25%, market share 20%, contribution to growth 25% and dedicated products 10%. The final number of points that the manufacturer receives is the weighted average of the results of all these indicators.

The results of the ranking of water producers due to their strategies applied to small format stores:

1. NAŁĘCZÓW ZDRÓJ 86 points
2. JURASSIC 81points
3. MUSZYNIANKA 75 points
4. COCA COLA COMPANY 69 points
5. MASPEX 66 points
6. USTRONIANKA 52 points
7. DANONE 44 points
8. SAN BENEDETTO 37 points
9. NESTLE 26 points
10. INEX 17 points

The more points, the more balanced the strategy.

Compared to a similar ranking last year, Maspex did not appear on the podium, which at the same time recorded the biggest drop in the list. On the other hand, Nałęczów Zdrój and Muszynianka changed places. Jurajska entered the second place from the fifth. Even more promotion was recorded by Ustronianka, who this year is 6th, and last year it was 10th.

Bottled water is considered the healthiest beverage in Poland. From year to year, its consumption is growing at a rapid pace. Almost half of the water sold in our country in packages with a capacity of less than 1.5 liters is purchased by consumers in small-format stores. Surely these results would be even better if all the key manufacturers made sure that their offer was equally accessible and attractive in all types of stores — says Waldemar Nowakowski, President of the Polish Chamber of Commerce.

The “Equal in Business” ranking is a joint initiative of the Eurocash Group, the leader in the wholesale distribution of FMCG products in Poland, and the Polish Chamber of Commerce, the largest representative of retail and services in our country.

Eurocash Group is the largest Polish company engaged in wholesale distribution of food products and marketing support for independent Polish entrepreneurs conducting retail activities. Franchise and partner networks supported by Eurocash bring together almost 15 thousand independent stores operating under brands such as abc, Groszek, Delikatesy Centrum, Lewiatan, Euro Sklep and Gama.

Duży Ben, a chain of new types of alcohol stores created by the Eurocash Group, has expanded with two new establishments, in Gniezno and Poznań. These are the first stores of the Big Ben concept, which, after a phase of internal testing, was handed over to entrepreneurs. The new stores operate in a franchise and agency model. More openings later this holiday.

— Since making the Big Ben concept available to franchisees, which we announced in the first quarter of this year, we have received many inquiries about the possibility of cooperation from Entrepreneurs from all over Poland. Both those who already run liquor stores and those who do not have their own premises, but would like to join the Big Ben chain — indicates Dawid Kula, CEO of the Big Ben network. — The last months have been a period of intensive discussions with potential Partners, the result of which is the launch of new establishments in two business models: franchise and agency. We assume that we will open more stores of this type later this holiday. At the same time, we focus on efficiency and the fastest possible achievement of the break-even point by new establishments. In the first stage, we focus on the development of the network in Wielkopolska, in order to take our concept to further regions in the next step — adds.

New stores with the Duży Ben logo appeared at 11 Witkowska Street in Gniezno and 74 Górna Wilda Street in Poznań.

The Gniezno facility operates in a franchise model. As the owner emphasizes, cooperation with a large distributor allows you to focus on sales and quality customer service, without worrying about new marketing solutions and a matching assortment of the store.

The store in Poznań, in turn, is the first in the agency model. This is the Eurocash Group's proposal for those Entrepreneurs who do not have enough capital to start their own establishment. In the agency system, it is the network organizer who owns the store, its equipment and goods. The agent, on the other hand, contributes his commitment and work. His role is the ongoing operation of the store, including, among others, hiring employees.

About Big Ben

Big Ben is a format of a modern liquor store created from scratch by the Eurocash Group, combining a wide range of products at attractive prices and professional advice. The stores are built on a one-stop-shop principle that allows you to shop in one place for different occasions — from an evening beer after work, meeting with friends, to birthdays or large family events. In addition to well-known and popular brands of spirits, the store's offer also includes, among others, a wide selection of craft beers and wines from the most popular regions, as well as drinks, snacks and accessories. Big Ben stores are transparent, safe and open to the consumer.

This concept is a proposal for both new and existing Customers of the Eurocash Group, who are considering specializing in the sale of this category of products. Big Ben provides, among other things, store equipment, signage and other elements of internal and external visualization, as well as marketing support, including cyclical promotions, loyalty program and modern business management and control tools.

By joining the Big Ben network, the entrepreneur gains the support and purchasing power of the Eurocash Group, which has 20 years of experience in developing franchise networks. Independent research indicates that sales in Big Ben's own stores are on average almost 50% higher than in other liquor stores, and in terms of wine or whiskey even several times higher.

The application for opening a store under the Big Ben brand and more information about the franchise offer of the chain can be found on the website www.duzyben.pl/franchises

Eurocash Group is the largest Polish company engaged in wholesale distribution of food products and marketing support for independent Polish entrepreneurs conducting retail activities. Franchise and partner networks supported by Eurocash bring together more than 14 thousand independent stores operating under brands such as abc, Groszek, Delikatesy Centrum, Lewiatan, Euro Sklep and Gama.

How is it that the same beers have different prices in discount stores and small stores? Why don't we buy some of the beers known from the hypermarket in the neighborhood store? This is usually determined by the distribution and pricing policies of beer producers and their unequal treatment of different store formats. That is why the Eurocash Group, together with its strategic partner the Polish Chamber of Commerce, prepared the next edition of the ranking of the largest breweries in Poland, assessing whether the strategies implemented by them do not diminish the importance of independent trade.

- For us as the Eurocash Group, fair treatment of independent retail by all manufacturers is very important. Therefore, we decided to implement the second edition of the “Equal in Business” ranking and evaluate the largest suppliers of several key categories of the food market: beer, water, carbonated drinks, juices and nectars, vodka and milk. The ranking, based on a comparison of various criteria important for entrepreneurs, is intended to encourage leading manufacturers in Poland to partner with small format stores, as they still account for almost half of the retail market — says Jacek Owczarek, Member of the Management Board of the Eurocash Group.

The largest breweries, operating on the Polish market, do not always build their position, treating independent retail equally. This way, more than 40% of fast-food goods and 70% of beer are still sold in value terms in Poland. The regional Brewery Namysłów is the decisive leader, and this is the second year in a row, in terms of partnership relations with all types of stores. Right behind him was the company Van Pur, distributor of, among others, Łomża beer. Of the beer companies, Heineken (Grupa Żywiec) ranked best, which is 2nd in terms of sales value and 3rd in the ranking. The same number of points was won by Perła — Breweries Lubelskie. Asahi Group (Kompania Piwowarska), which has the largest share in the Polish beer market, took only 5th place in the “Equal in Business” ranking. Similarly, 3rd in the Carlsberg market, after evaluating its approach to small format, opens only the second half of the “Equal in Business” rate.

- The largest breweries can make sure that small format stores have their most popular beers at an attractive price for consumers. The highest rated in the ranking show that they can treat all sales channels equally. Customers visit a small store more often and shop there more often. Therefore, in independent retail there is the potential to further expand the beer portfolio, enhance the exposure and move away from selling only in individual bottles or cans. We are already seeing an increase in beer sales in this channel. The example of Brewery Namysłów shows that equal treatment pays off, because the shares of this producer in the market are growing the fastest this year — says Jacek Owczarek.

The ranking was prepared by analysts of the Eurocash Group based on data from the research agency Nielsen. The results of the ten largest manufacturers (by sales value) are compared with each other. Each of them was awarded points in five areas: price, distribution, market share, contribution to growth and dedicated products. Each area was given an appropriate weight in the final result: price — weight 20%, distribution 25%, market share 20%, contribution to growth 25% and dedicated products 10%. The final number of points that the manufacturer receives is the weighted average of the results of all these indicators.

Results of the ranking of beer producers in relation to small format stores in 2018:

1. BROWAR NAMYSŁÓW 95 points
2. VAN PUR 71
3. HEINEKEN (ŻYWIEC GROUP) 68
4. PERŁA — BREWERIES IN LUBLIN 68
5. ASAHI (BREWING COMPANY) 57
6. CARLSBERG 47
7. FORTUNE 45
8. AMBER BREWERY 42
9. BUDWEISER BUDVAR 35
10. BREWERY JABŁONOWO 26

The more points, the more balanced the strategy.

Compared to last year's ranking, the position of Brewery Namysłów in the top position has not changed. Among the producers who treat all sales channels equally, Perła — Browary Lubelskie remained. The biggest improvement in its position was made by the Heineken concern (Żywiec Group), which rose from 9th to 3rd place. Also noteworthy is the leap of Van Pur from 6th to 2nd place. Last year's podium was not maintained by Carlsberg, which this year fell to 6th place.

- The breakdown clearly shows that not all retailers are still treated fairly and in partnership. Independent entrepreneurs, producers and consumers lose out on unequal treatment. Therefore, we do not accept the discrimination of the small format channel by some FMCG producers. Maintaining a competitive offer in small and medium-sized stores does not exclude anyone, but serves the entire market — emphasizes Waldemar Nowakowski, President of the Polish Chamber of Commerce.

The “Equal in Business” ranking is a joint initiative of the Eurocash Group, the leader in the wholesale distribution of FMCG products in Poland, and the Polish Chamber of Commerce, the broadest representative of retail trade and services in our country.

Eurocash Group is the largest Polish company engaged in wholesale distribution of food products and marketing support for independent Polish entrepreneurs conducting retail activities. Franchise and partner networks supported by Eurocash bring together more than 14 thousand independent stores operating under brands such as abc, Groszek, Delikatesy Centrum, Lewiatan, Euro Sklep and Gama.

‍More than 130 students took part in the pilot program of the Eurocash Academy of Skills for selected vocational and trade schools from Podkarpackie, Silesian and Lower Silesian voivodships. Each of the students took part in 3 workshops.

In 2017, the Eurocash Skills Academy started cooperation with selected professional/industry and technical schools, educating students in the fields of salesman and trader technician. The pilot program included selected schools from the Podkarpackie, Silesian and Lower Silesian voivodships. In the 2017/2018 school year, a total of 25 workshops were organized, in which 138 students participated (each of them took part in 3 workshops). The subject of the classes concerned issues related, among others, to customer service and merchandising in the grocery store. The initiative of the Eurocash Academy of Skills obtained the patronage of the Education Development Center.

The program “Eurocash Skills Academy for the promotion of the profession of salesperson in vocational/trade schools and technical schools” was created in response to the growing problem of lack of qualified salespeople on the labor market. The main goal of cooperation between schools and the Eurocash Academy of Skills was to promote the profession of a salesperson among young people.

— Polish independent entrepreneurs are struggling with staffing shortages. It is about both the lack of hands to work and the low level of professional qualifications of people employed in trade. This applies to the entire market, and therefore also to our customers — owners of franchise and partner stores of the Eurocash Group — says Agata Wrzecionowska-Dzierba, manager of the Eurocash Academy of Skills. — From year to year, schools note a waning interest in the direction of the seller, which is why they increasingly combine different profiles in multi-vocational classes or completely abandon the opening of subsequent yearbooks. To meet this situation, we have created an initiative that not only enriches the current educational program, but also shows students that the profession of a salesperson gives interesting career prospects and, as a result of appropriate commitment, can also bring good remuneration — adds.

As part of the project, the Eurocash Skills Academy organizes practical workshops for students, visitors to vocational and trade schools during open days and organizes special meetings with parents. Students participating in the program have the opportunity to do paid internships in franchise and partner stores of the Eurocash Group. During their studies and internships, the trainers of the Eurocash Skills Academy provide individual substantive support to students. As part of this year's edition of the Eurocash program, it organized, among others, a trip for students of the Bieszczady Complex of Vocational Schools named after Lech Wałęsa in Ustrzyki Dolne to the logistics center in Krosno-Szczepańcowa, in which about 50 people took part.

— With the beginning of September, another series of workshops for students will begin. First graders will also take part in them, whose students will undergo professional practice in shops cooperating with the Eurocash Academy of Skills. So far, the program has included third grade students — says Agata Wrzecionowska-Dzierba. — The program “Eurocash Skills Academy for the promotion of the profession of a salesperson in vocational/trade and technical schools” will enter the next phase, strengthening cooperation with other schools.

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The Eurocash Academy of Skills is the largest comprehensive educational and training program in Poland supporting Polish independent retail stores affiliated in the franchise and partner networks of the Eurocash Group. Within its framework, store owners and employees have access to a modern e-learning platform, workshops and conferences, thanks to which they can expand their knowledge in the field of work and management of a grocery store based on changing consumer trends.

In the period from September 2016 to August 2017 alone, a total of 13,500 store owners and employees took part in the conference and workshops within the Academy, and 14,000 people took advantage of the educational platform.

More information on www.akademiaeurocash.com.pl

Eurocash Group is the largest Polish company engaged in wholesale distribution of food products and marketing support for independent Polish entrepreneurs conducting retail activities. Franchise and partner networks supported by Eurocash bring together more than 14 thousand independent stores operating under brands such as abc, Groszek, Delikatesy Centrum, Lewiatan, Euro Sklep and Gama.

‍Only for the celebration of this year's Children's Day, independent entrepreneurs who run small-format stores in Poland have allocated several million zlotys — according to estimates of the Eurocash Group. How can a neighborhood store become a center of community life?

Without Jan Skalski, who owns 10 shops in Podkarpacie, it is practically impossible to hold Sieniawa Days or Tryncza Days. In a few years, he has already bought 50 yellow-blue bicycles for prizes in competitions. Users of two-wheelers in the colors of Leviathan are a vivid advertisement for his shops, but he is also about the joy of giving. In addition, his “gifts” bring good luck to local football teams. The players of MKS Sokoła Sieniawa playing in the IV league received a set of football suits from Jan Skalski. Now, at the end of the season they occupy the first place in their group and are close to promotion to League III. LKS Czerwoni Cewków players are also going from victory to victory to A class, who are also fighting for promotion in costumes from Jan Skalski. “I am impressed with how the guys are involved in training and the game,” he says. The match he watched was won 11-0 and now he would like to help them buy goals, cones, benches and balls, because for now the players are making up for the lack of training equipment with ambition. The opportunity to win funds is the ongoing action of the Eurocash Group “Local Heroes — 100 Entrepreneurs' Initiatives for the 100th Anniversary of Independence”, in which it intends to fight for one of the grants. So the owner of a small store in Cewkowo can become a local Abramovich, who helps return the Red Coils to their glory days, when they played in the district league.

— According to a study commissioned by us, 78% of store owners believe that retail operations have a positive impact on local communities and their level of life satisfaction. This year's campaign “Local Heroes — 100 Entrepreneurs' Initiatives for the 100th Anniversary of Independence” serves to draw attention to this phenomenon — says Marta Gampf, Marketing Director at Eurocash Group.

Also Ireneusz Wróbel, who together with his father Stanisław Wróble runs several shops in Podkarpacie, lists a long list of local events and institutions that he supports financially or materially. He is just finalizing the “Traveller's Academy” — a competition for local schools, which consisted of collecting purchase receipts. For each receipt, he pays 50 cents. He paid PLN 2,378 to the class that collected the most receipts. Students will be able to use this money for a field trip or other classroom needs. At the same time, he offered the children of his employees a trip to Energylandia in Zator.

Thanks to the idea of Sylwester Szerląg, co-owner of 11 stores in Małopolska, the small Rzezawa in the Bochen district is the Polish record holder for grilling the longest chicken skewer (it was over 43 meters). Even smaller Ciężkowice in Tarnów County boasts the largest number of people reading a poem at the same time in Poland (557 people read Brzechwa on the occasion of Children's Day). The picnic gathered almost 5,000 people, although the town has only 2,400 inhabitants. Sylwester Szerląg does not hide that the event cost about PLN 30,000. — Such events are not held every year, but I support smaller initiatives throughout the year — he says. As he himself estimates, many grants of several hundred zlotys make about PLN 15 thousand a year.

Recently, he organized the departure of hundreds of children training football for the last match of Bruk-Bet Termaliki in Ekstraklasa at the stadium in Niecieczy. As part of the Eurocash Group's action “Local Heroes — 100 Entrepreneurs' Initiatives for the 100th Anniversary of Independence”, it plans to announce the construction of an outdoor gym in the park in the village of Bogoniowice near Ciężkowice. For the ideas of entrepreneurs like him, supporting local communities, there are 100 grants worth a total of PLN 1,500,000. The organizers of the action are waiting for applications until June 18. The implementation of Sylvester Szerląg's project will cost PLN 50,000 and Eurocash wants to fight for such a grant. If he wins, the gym will be built as early as 2019.

Anna Wnuk, owner of a small shop in Ostrorog in Wielkopolska, has a large collection of diplomas and thanks for her support. The pastoral council in Ostrorog thanks for the support of the parish festival, the primary school in Sicin “for the help and kindness shown”, the library “for a big heart” for the organization of the festival “John of Ostroroga in the guests asks” . — It never happened that I refused to help prepare children's parties. Their organizers can always count on both financial and material support in the form of products such as drinks, sweets or small toys — he says. But the requests also apply to parties organized for adults. Then gifts in the form of sweets replace sets of cosmetics, sports equipment or spirits. She moved to Ostrorog in 2013, and today, thanks to her social activity, she feels that she is close to the town, as if she had lived in it for years.

These are just a few examples of local community heroes. All shop owners who support local initiatives can apply for Eurocash grants to finance their activities until 18 June. It is enough that through the site www.herosiprzedsiebiorci.pl They will submit ideas that can be used by local communities. Entrepreneurs apply for grants in the amount of PLN 10,000, 50,000 and PLN 100,000. The event was under Honorary Patronage of the Ministry of Entrepreneurship and Technology.

Detailed information about the action “Local Heroes” and regulations can be found on the website www.herosiprzedsiebiorci.pl. Store owners can also use the help of the Service Office of the Project “Local Heroes — 100 Entrepreneurs' Initiatives for the 100th Anniversary of Independence”, by calling tel. (22) 123 77 22 from Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Eurocash Group is the largest Polish company engaged in wholesale distribution of food products and marketing support for independent Polish entrepreneurs conducting retail activities. Franchise and partner networks supported by Eurocash bring together more than 14 thousand independent stores operating under brands such as abc, Groszek, Delikatesy Centrum, Lewiatan, Euro Sklep and Gama.

• The Eurocash Group has signed a promised agreement concerning the acquisition of 100% of shares in the Cypriot company Domelius Limited controlling Mila S.A. — owner of a chain of 187 supermarkets located mainly in central Poland.
• The Eurocash Group has signed a promised agreement concerning the acquisition of 100% of shares in the Cypriot company Domelius Limited controlling Mila S.A. — owner of a chain of 187 supermarkets located mainly in central Poland.
• The agreement was concluded after receiving the unconditional consent of the President of UOKiK to take over the Cypriot owner of the Mila network.
• The transaction is the next step in strengthening the market position of thousands of independent entrepreneurs operating retail stores in Poland. Thanks to it, the Group's customers will benefit from an increase in logistics facilities, as well as an increased purchasing scale, which will improve the competitive position of independent retail stores in Poland
• Innovative solutions and experiences of the acquired network, classified as a so-called modern market, will eventually be made available to all Eurocash Group Clients.
• The strategic goal of the Eurocash Group is to improve the competitiveness of Polish independent retail stores.

The signing of the promised contract is the final stage in the process of acquiring Mila supermarkets. As a result of the transaction, the national leader, supporting tens of thousands of entrepreneurs in the country, became the owner of a chain of 187 supermarkets operating under the Mila brand, located mainly in central Poland. Total revenues from the sale of the network in 2017 amounted to approximately PLN 1.48 billion. Thanks to the investment of the Eurocash Group, the Mila network has acquired a strong strategic partner with the know-how and resources necessary for further development.

The transaction value of the acquisition of the Mila network amounted to PLN 350 million, excluding selected properties of the company, which were not acquired by Eurocash.

— Once the transaction is finalized, we can begin the seamless integration of our businesses. We are waiting for a period of intensive work in the field of exchange and implementation of the best practices of both chains, i.e. Mila and Delikatesów Centrum. The acquisition of this network is a huge value for us, which will result in the transfer of knowledge and experience to our franchisees and partners. Thanks to it, our Customers will be able to benefit from the increased logistics facilities of the Group, as well as an increased purchasing scale, which will allow our customers to receive commercial conditions close to the competition. It can be said that independent retailers are beginning to capture a market hitherto dominated by large supermarket chains — said Jacek Owczarek, Member of the Management Board and Chief Financial Officer of the Eurocash Group.

The integration of the Mila network with the Eurocash Group may take from 2 to 3 years. It will start with a joint acquaintance, training, reference visits both in Delikatesy Centrum and Mila stores. The next stage will be the integration of the logistics of both companies in order to make the most efficient use of common assets. At the end of the integration, a decision will be made regarding the rebranding of the stores, so that the entrepreneurs who currently run nearly 1300 Delikatesy Centrum stores, can benefit from the increased presence of the brand in another region of the country. Ultimately, the solutions and innovations developed in the network created by Delikatesy Centrum and Mila will be distributed to all Eurocash Group Clients. An example of such activities is the already developed high-quality system of daily distribution of fresh products, which will be quite strongly supported by Mila logistics solutions in central Poland.

— The stability and experience of Eurocash are one of the most important advantages that the Mila network acquires from the day of the transaction finalization. We expect that the exchange of knowledge will translate into strengthening the competitive position of our supermarkets. Together with the Delikatesów Centrum team, we are able to develop solutions that will be appreciated by customers throughout Poland. And thanks to the fact that more entrepreneurs working together in the franchise model will join the network, we will reap further benefits from the scale effect. They will certainly translate into the attractiveness of our offer — said Artur Góralczyk, President of the Management Board of Mila S.A.

Eurocash Group is the largest Polish company engaged in wholesale distribution of food products and marketing support for independent Polish entrepreneurs conducting retail activities. Franchise and partner networks supported by Eurocash bring together more than 14 thousand independent stores operating under brands such as abc, Groszek, Delikatesy Centrum, Lewiatan, Euro Sklep and Gama.

“Local Heroes — 100 Entrepreneurs' Initiatives for the 100th Anniversary of Independence”

100 local initiatives related to culture, sports, ecology, common space and assistance to those in need will be implemented thanks to independent entrepreneurs — shop owners, cooperating with the Eurocash Group.

The collection of applications as part of the campaign “Local Heroes — 100 Entrepreneurs' Initiatives for the 100th Anniversary of Independence” started in mid-May on the website www.herosiprzedsiebiorci.pl. The implementation of hundreds of selected projects will take place in the first half of 2019. Store owners can earn from 10 thousand to 100 thousand PLN for this purpose. In total, the budget for the implementation of local initiatives includes PLN 1.5 million. The event was under Honorary Patronage of the Ministry of Entrepreneurship and Technology.

Local Heroes are the owners of several thousand small stores located throughout Poland and supplied by the Eurocash Group such as abc, Groszek, Delikatesy Centrum, Lewiatan, Euro Sklep, Gama and many others. According to a study conducted last year by the Keralla Research Institute on behalf of the Eurocash Group, the activity of such stores has a positive impact on local communities and their level of life satisfaction, according to more than 78% of the entrepreneurs surveyed. According to almost 29% of them, the store not only provides access to a wide range of products, but is also a meeting place for the local community. In addition to this, it gives work and is the point where local products are offered. It is in retail stores that a close relationship with the customer is built. More than half of the respondents pay attention to this aspect. Building a good relationship with customers is mentioned by entrepreneurs as the second most important factor influencing the development of the store, right after a good offer.

— Neighborhood stores have always been more than just a retail outlet. They are centers of social life. Entrepreneurs not only pay taxes to local budgets and invest their profits on the spot, but also know the needs and problems of their unrelated customers
with trade. This is also their competitive strength. We know that they themselves often invest in the development of the local community, so we decided to help them implement even more initiatives — says Marta Gampf, Marketing Director at Eurocash Group.

The project is being implemented on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of Poland regaining independence this year. In the first phase, between 14 May and 18 June, the owners of stores supported by the Eurocash Group will submit initiatives on the project website that will benefit local communities. The final selection of 100 projects that will receive grants will be made by Internet users — including customers of stores involved in the action — taking part in a nationwide vote, which will also take place on the project's website between 15 August and 14 October this year. Local Heroes will be announced in November.

Initiatives announced in the Local Heroes project can promote movement and healthy living, such as fitness classes for seniors, jerseys for youngsters from the local team or retrofitting a community gym. They can also serve a broadly understood culture, such as supporting amateur theatre or setting up a mobile library. The installation of bins for waste segregation, or the establishment of a composter accessible to all, can have a positive impact on the local nature. New benches or an outdoor gym may appear in the common living space of residents. For example, people with disabilities or orphanages can benefit from initiatives designed to help those in need. The number of ideas is unlimited.

Detailed information about the action “Local Heroes” and regulations can be found on the website www.herosiprzedsiebiorci.pl. Store owners can also use the help of the Service Office of the Project “Local Heroes — 100 Entrepreneurs' Initiatives for the 100th Anniversary of Independence”, by calling tel. (22) 123 77 22 from Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Eurocash Group is the largest Polish company engaged in wholesale distribution of food products and marketing support for independent Polish entrepreneurs conducting retail activities. Franchise and partner networks supported by Eurocash bring together more than 14 thousand independent stores operating under brands such as abc, Groszek, Delikatesy Centrum, Lewiatan, Euro Sklep and Gama.