Smart solutions were created at the MATE x Penny idea competition

By: Trademagazin Date: 2023. 06. 12. 12:33

A multi-round student idea competition with a total prize of HUF two million was organized in cooperation with the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences and PENNY. The project ideas presented at the competition focused on communication solutions that could make the chain’s 229 renewed stores and its product range – which was expanded by 30 percent compared to 2019, even more popular among the 18-25 year-old age group.

In the spring of 2022, MATE signed a cooperation agreement with PENNY, the focus of which was the preparation of students for the employment of large companies and the development of education. The retailer also provides students with professional internships, and its professionals participate in the educational and professional work of the food trade specialization.

A total of 23 teams entered the student idea competition, five of which were selected by the jury. The project idea of the grand-prize Fillér and silver-medal Super Sellers teams started from the fact that a significant number of young people spend most of their time on Instagram and TikTok. Thus, an active presence on these platforms, as well as creative videos presenting the offer, promotions and behind-the-scenes business, can be an excellent opportunity to establish contact between young people and PENNY.

The third place was the Okos Solutions team, who further developed the functions of the PENNY application. In addition to the one million HUF cash prize, the grand prize-winning Fillér team also won the opportunity to be mentored by senior managers. During the latter, students can gain an insight into the work at PENNY, as well as ask questions and seek advice for their professional development.

“Our university always pays special attention to innovative thinking and the application of scientific results in practice, which is also excellently proven by the fact that our researchers have several patents and protections attached to their names. Encouraging talented students to think innovatively is also a priority for us, which was further strengthened by the implementation of the MATE x PENNY idea competition,”

emphasized Dr. Csaba Gyuricza, rector of MATE, in connection with the collaboration.

“As a supportive employer, PENNY is happy to stand behind all initiatives and creative solutions with which we can support the next generation, as they are building the future. We ourselves offer a number of company programs for young people who choose a retail career. I can proudly say that we were part of a great collaboration and we will certainly look for opportunities to continue it,”

said Eszter Kazatsay, head of communications at PENNY in Hungary.