AB Vassilopoulos shifts to franchise model and smaller stores

AB Vassilopoulos is shifting its business model toward a network of smaller neighborhood stores, increased franchise operations, and fast delivery services. The company aims to reach 900 stores across Greece by the end of the decade. To achieve this, the retailer is transitioning from larger provincial stores to a higher number of smaller, more agile locations, with a goal to complete the franchise transformation by 2028.

In 2025, the company's turnover exceeded 2 billion euros, representing a 3.5% increase. Despite a net loss of approximately 25 million euros in 2025—driven by absorbing 12 million euros in price investments to support consumers, alongside rising wage and logistics costs—adjusted operating profit rose by 2% to 27.3 million euros. The company invested 52 million euros in 2025, focusing on store networks, infrastructure, green development, and new technologies.

On the product front, AB Vassilopoulos is targeting the growing ready-to-eat food market, which is seeing a 17% growth rate. In collaboration with Akis Petretzikis, the retailer plans to launch a line of children's meals in 2027 to address the demand for convenient, healthier options for busy parents. The company also intends to expand its presence in the export market.