Coop is the franchise system of the year

Co-op Hungary Zrt. has been awarded the title “Franchise System of the Year 2007” by the Hungraian Franchise Association. We asked László Murányi, CEO of Co-op Hungary Zrt. about the achievements needed for this recognition. – How difficult was the process of learning which eventually resulted in this award? – We had began building our franchise system in 2000 which was launched in 2002. – How is franchise to be interpreted exactly in your system? – All units follow a common business policy, but operate independently. All units which conform to the uniform image can use our logo. – Common business policy is quite a complex term. What does it mean in your system? – Standardised assortments reviewed on a quarterly basis. Uniform standards for shelf design which allows our customers to find the same products in the same arrangement everywhere. A common advertising and marketing policy with nation-wide promotions and leaflets. – Are there any other areas subject to centralised control? – Our private label policy. Production and purchasing of these is organised by our HQ. Good quality at a good price is our objective. We have over 700 private label products. We also have a central training system for our employees and franchise partners. – What is the IT system which allows you to handle all this like? – Naturally, it is centralised. Our partners can purchase an integrated system when they join us. – I assume that distribution is also centralised as well. – It is, like logistics. We supply our stores via six regional logistic centres. – Is there anything else required for getting an award for franchise? – I am not sure, but I know that franchise is not only used by us for purchasing, logistics, distribution or IT. We also provide common services for our units and partners.