Mere-Basket is preparing for a strong expansion: the Russian discount chain is looking for new rural locations

The first Hungarian unit opened on December 3rd in Budapest, on Besence Street, where the chain immediately found itself in competition with nearby Lidl, Aldi, Auchan and Tesco units. The model is based on low prices and low-cost operation: the range ranges from basic food and alcoholic beverages to toys and technical goods.

The opening attracted great interest despite minimal marketing activity: customers in the area were reached with flyers, regional radio advertisements and primarily through content spread on social media.

The company confirmed that it is already looking for additional store locations, especially on the Debrecen–Miskolc–Nyíregyháza axis and Western Hungary. The timing of the expansion depends on the progress of the site selection and licensing processes.

Mere is not a new player in Europe: the discount chain operates stores in several markets and, due to its “hard discount” positioning, often appears in locations where price competition is strong. Its entry into Hungary could further increase the dynamics in the segment dominated by the largest chains – especially Lidl and Aldi.

According to Basket Plus, the company plans a sustainable, aggressive expansion path in the long term, creating new competitive situations in the domestic retail trade.