About us

SPAR International is responsible for the co-ordination and development of the worldwide SPAR organisation. The Board of SPAR International develops the strategy and agrees specific objectives to be achieved. The current strategy ‘Towards 2010’, has focused on the development of SPAR into new countries. While each SPAR country is completely responsible for its own operations, SPAR International supports the implementation of best international practice in food retailing and distribution. The principle activities of SPAR International can be summarised as:

• New Country Development: New countries with a special focus on Asia, Eastern Europe and Africa.
• Retail Development: Implementing retail strategy through a flagship store programme which introduces international best practice to inational markets. Studying and communicating best practice in international retailing and providing information through store concept and design manuals is an important medium.
• Marketing: Building SPAR as a global brand. This includes the sponsorship of European Athletics, international TV campaigns and international promotions.
• Human Resources: Development of Human Resources Strategy, Sharing of Best Practice in HR Management through conferences, working parties, International training courses and publications.
• Buying: Developing and jointly purchasing an extensive range of International SPAR Brands. Currently there are 420 products in the range which includes a price-fighting range and a high quality range. Establishing international buying agreements for non-resalable products including shop equipment, warehouse equipment, computer software and hardware, transport etc. SPAR also trades for and on behalf of the members in commodities to combine logistics and volumes.
• Logistics and ICT: Facilitating productivity improvement through study and implementation of best international practice in Logistics and Information Communication Technology.
• Publications: Publications include bi-monthly Contact International in six languages, Annual Report, SPAR Handbook and a range of publications on key retailing and wholesaling topics.