Studenac seeks to acquire Zagreb-based retailer Decentia as it rolls out proximity format across Croatia

Croatian retailer, Studenac, has announced plans to acquire 36 Decentia stores, continuing its strategy of expanding through acquisitions in the proximity segment. The transaction is pending regulatory approval from the Croatian Competition Agency (AZTN).

If completed, it will strengthen Studenac’s position in continental Croatia, particularly Zagreb, where it will reach more than 130 stores.

Decentia, founded in 2001, posted 2023 revenue of more than €34 million. Its 36 stores have an average of 110 square metres of retail space.

Studenac has been rolling out its proximity format in communities across the country, pursuing a strategy of organic growth and acquisitions of retail chains. It has grown its store count more than three times since 2018, becoming the country’s largest retailer by number of locations.

After integrating more than 650 stores into its network through acquisitions over the past six years, Studenac says it has developed a formula that allows it to quickly understand and adapt to the needs of local consumers, optimising product ranges at each location to increase customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

At the end of 2023, Studenac had 1,265 stores across Croatia and established a presence in local communities, from bustling urban centres like Zagreb and Split to rural regions with lower population density and in the touristic coastal regions.

2023 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Studenac emerged victorious at the 2023 RTIH Innovation Awards.

It was highly commended in the Most Innovative Retailer category for working to automate decision making along its supply chain, reducing the need for manual interventions to a minimum.

Our winners were revealed at a fantastic awards ceremony, which took place at the Barbican Centre in central London.

The event was held on Wednesday, 29th November, maintaining its popular evening format, with a drinks reception in the stunning Conservatory, followed by a Christmas themed three course meal, and awards ceremony in the Garden Room.

Check out the full winners list here.

The 2024 RTIH Innovation Awards are now open for entries. Click here for entry forms and FAQs.