EBRD transfers Romanian retail chain La Cocos to market leader Schwarz Group in sale transaction
In a potential game-changer for the Romanian retail market, German conglomerate Schwarz Group, the owner of Lidl and Kaufland, is reportedly set to acquire a significant stake in local retailer La Cocos. The acquisition, if confirmed, could have far-reaching implications not only for Romania but also for the retail sector across Europe.
The deal, which is still pending regulatory approval, including from the Romanian Competition Council, involves the transfer of a 70% stake from financial investors such as the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). The exact terms of the deal have not been disclosed.
Schwarz Group, a market leader in the retail sector, has expressed its intentions to build upon La Cocos' growth potential. The company plans to work closely with the existing team to expand the current business model, ensuring the continuity of operations and preserving the employment of current La Cocos employees.
The founder of La Cocos has expressed expectations that Schwarz Group will preserve the retailer's Romanian identity, suggesting a strategy that balances growth with cultural sensitivity.
If the acquisition goes through, La Cocos, known for its rapid expansion in Romania, could follow in the footsteps of Lidl and Kaufland, potentially leading to changes in the retail landscape across Europe.
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The Schwarz Group, with its strong presence in the retail sector and finance, aims to invest in La Cocos, a significant move that could alter the business landscape, potentially influencing the retail industry across Europe. Following the acquisition, La Cocos, a rapidly expanding retailer in Romania, may emulate Schwarz Group's retail giants Lidl and Kaufland, thereby reshaping the retail market across the continent.
