Rewe has announced its unaudited financial results for 2013, revealing Group sales increased by 2.9% to €50.6bn. In Germany, sales were up 2.9% to €36.2bn. Sales in Rewe’s international markets rose by 2.9% to €14.4bn. Alain Caparros, CEO of Rewe, said the high investments in organic expansion of the distribution network and new sales concepts formed the basis for 2013’s success.

The strongest growth driver was the national and international food retail business. International full range store sales increased by 3.2%, while in Germany stores saw growth of 3.3%, while international discount continues to grow with sales up 3.1%. The national full range stores were successful in 2013. Sales rose from €15.9bn to €16.4bn, a solid increase of 2.9%. Internationally, Penny stores posted an increase of 3.1% to €4bn, with the number of stores growing by 1.8% to 1,344 locations. The Czech Republic remains Penny’s largest international market with a turnover of €1.12bn. This is followed by Italy with a turnover of €1.06bn. Penny Italy continues to roll out its successful ambiance concept in-store, with sales growing by 6.6%. Penny in Romania delivered impressive 13.8% sales growth.

Caparros announced a further €200m investment for 2014 on top of the €1.4bn already announced earlier this year, bringin the total investment to €1.6bn. In 2013, investment was focused on modernisation of supermarkets in Germany and international markets. Also, Rewe’s online offering will be extended in 2014.

Source: www.retailanalysis.igd.com