The Russian supermarket chain VkusVill will open its first store in the Netherlands. It is also planning to open a branch in France, as part of a global expansion that may also include China and Belgium.
The first store will likely open in Amsterdam. The chain sees the French expansion, in particular, as an experiment, since " old-fashioned retail isn't really adapting to current needs " in the country, founder Andrey Krivenk told Reuters. The businessman also sees the same problem in the Russian market, which explains VkusVill's rapid growth.
Their key to success in Russia, as well as in expanding abroad, is their focus on healthy, fresh foods, free of artificial additives and using as many local products as possible.
1.200 stores, zero loans
In Russia, the supermarket chain opens an average of two new stores every day: since its creation in 2009, it has opened more than 1.200 stores and achieved annual sales growth of 60%.
The shops are generally small, but larger shops are planned for Moscow, each with its own cafeteria and wine shop.
The chain carried out all expansions using its own resources.
