ROMANIA: Top 10 events for the retail and FMCG market in 2015 | Progresiv
From acquisitions and new product category launches and also to fines, new regulations and insolvencies, 2015 was a busy year for the retail and FMCG market. Progresiv Magazine presents you the ten most important events that had a significant impact on the Romanian market. 
Carrefour bought Billa Romania supermarket chain
Carrefour announced the signing of a purchase agreement with Billa supermarket chain, with 86 operational stores in Romania. The transaction was valued by the online publication mirsanu.ro at 96-97 million euros.
Tymbark owner took over Rio Bucovina mineral water bottler
Polish group Maspex Wadowice took over the bottled water maker Rio Bucovina, the transaction being subject to approval from the Competition Council. This is the third takeover of the Polish group on the Romanian market.
Orkla Foods bought Hamé through a regional transaction with impact also in Romania
Orkla has strengthened its position in consumer food market in Central Europe by taking over Hamé company for 175 million euros. Both companies are major players on the Romanian market of canned foods.
Succes, the largest local chain of stores, became insolvent
Succes Nic Com, a company that operates the largest local chain of stores in Romania, became insolvent in early February. The company has accumulated debts of 142 million lei.
Record fine from the Competition Council to international chains and their suppliers
The Competition Council fined with 35 million euros store chains Metro, Real, Selgros, Mega Image and a total of 21 of their suppliers for their anti-competitive practices between 2005 and 2009. The sanctions were imposed for fixing shelf prices between retailers and suppliers as well as for the companies’ behavior during promotions.
The bill that prohibits stores in buldings with seismic risk I and II came into force
The bill that prohibits the operation of stores, banks, bars, restaurants and other commercial establishments that are located in buildings with seismic grade I or II, was passed in November by the President. The normative act has led to many closures of stores and restaurants downtown, including three Mega Image commercial units.
Heineken launched Strongbow cider, promoting a new category of alcoholic beverages in Romania
Heineken Romania launched in April the Strongbow cider, the world's most powerful brand in this segment, practically opening a new consumption category on the alcoholic beverages market.
Profi launched Profi Loco chain of stores, dedicated to rural settlements
The retailer with the largest geographical coverage in Romania launched in August, Profi Loco, a store concept for rural areas. The launch was done by reopening 11 units functioning as Profi Mini flagship stores in several rural areas.
PepsiCo brought Quaker brand in Romania, entering the cereals category
PepsiCo Romania entered the cereals category through Star Foods snacks division. The company launched the American brand Quaker on the Romanian market with a portfolio that includes products such as cereal bars and cereal with fruit mix for breakfast.
Alex&Comp spices and food additives manufacturer was taken over by Fuchs and Dr. Oetker
German manufacturer Fuchs has acquired the spices division of Alex & Comp company from Galati, while German company Dr. Oetker bought the brand of dessert ingredients, egg dyes and preservatives Alex of the same company.
