According to the group’s financial report, Romania is one of the most dynamic markets for the German operator, along with Poland and Bulgaria.
By the end of June, Praktiker had 22 stores in Romania, five more than last June. The company targets 30 locations in the coming 2-3 years.
The volume of net sales in Romania in H1 2008 was lower only compared to Germany (€1.418 billion) and Greece (€129.9 million). At a group level, sales dropped 0.4 percent year-on-year, to €1.9997 billion. However, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) amounted to €92 mln, higher compared to the €76.5 mln registered in H1 2007.
The company reduced its sales increase estimates for 2008, due to lower German consumer confidence. However, EBITDA is expected to rise to €135-140 mln, from €116 mln in June 2007.
