The SPAR Group has sold its Swiss operations for R1.03 billion ($55 million) part of a wider effort to strengthen the company’s balance sheet and concentrate on its main markets in Southern Africa and Ireland.
SPAR Switzerland, whose history stretches back to a St. Gallen trading house founded in 1761, will now be run under Swiss ownership. The new holding has pledged to maintain well-known formats such as EUROSPAR, SPAR, SPAR Express, SPAR Mini, TopCC and maxi///, while investing in digitalisation and efficiency improvements. The board will be chaired by Dr Peter Weber, with Prof Dr Reto Francioni and Dr Daniel Häring also joining, alongside advisor Stefan Hromatka.
“This is about sharper capital allocation, reducing leverage, and ensuring we are positioned to build on our strengths. SPAR is firmly on track to deliver on its vision of becoming the retailer of choice in its core geographies,” said Angelo Swartz, Group CEO.
On 1 January 2021, SPAR Switzerland significantly expanded it presence in the forecourt business by acquiring 60 stores from Store Service AG (an AVIA-associated company).
The new owners have promised continuity for employees, franchise partners and suppliers, stressing that daily operations will remain unchanged while future development will focus on strengthening local ties and innovation. For SPAR Group, the divestment marks a strategic realignment, narrowing its geographic spread and placing greater emphasis on markets where it sees stronger growth potential.
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