Budapest’s new hard discount store Basket Plusz wows shoppers with unbeatable prices
Budapest has welcomed its first “hard discount” supermarket with the opening of Basket Plusz in Pestszentlőrinc, marking a new chapter for bargain-hunters in the city. Long anticipated under the Mere brand, the store finally opened its doors on 3 December, drawing early-morning queues before the 9 AM launch.
Warehouse-style layout and convenience
Located near the MOHU waste centre, close to the M5 motorway, the Basket Plusz store immediately stands out with its simple, warehouse-like layout, Telex reported. Unlike conventional supermarkets, there are no lavish displays or fully stocked gondolas; instead, shelves line the walls while pallets of goods form aisles, creating a clear, uncluttered shopping environment. Shoppers navigate the aisles carefully, as space is tight and trolleys are free to use at the entrance.
Shockingly low prices
The store’s low prices quickly impressed visitors. According to Blikk’s report, everyday essentials – from household goods to personal care items – are offered at rates that often leave shoppers speechless. Among the bargains spotted by Blikk were a 10-pack of 135-litre bin bags for HUF 328 (less than EUR 1), a 30-pack of sanitary pads for HUF 241, men’s boxers for HUF 449 (a bit more than EUR 1), and 5.65 litres of German washing gel for just HUF 1,729 (EUR 4.5). Even premium items such as digital kitchen scales or hairdryers were priced well below typical retail levels.
Key product bargains (HUF 382 = EUR 1):
- 10-pack of 135-litre bin bags – HUF 328
- 30-pack of sanitary pads – HUF 241
- Men’s boxer shorts – HUF 449
- 5.65 litres of German washing gel – HUF 1,729
- Digital kitchen scale – HUF 1,508
- Hairdryer – HUF 3,559
- 4-piece peeling knife set – HUF 397
- 5-litre liquid soap – HUF 1,403
- Halved plums – HUF 1,154/kg
- Breaded squid – HUF 899/500g
- Chicken breast – HUF 1,561/kg
Product range and sourcing
Frozen and packaged foods dominate the store, with many products imported from Slovakia, Poland, and other EU countries. Shoppers found halved plums for HUF 1,154/kg, breaded squid for HUF 899/500g, chicken breasts for HUF 1,561/kg, and a variety of ready-to-cook meats. Some fresh, locally produced goods were also available, sourced directly from Hungarian small-scale producers, which allows Basket Plusz to undercut larger chains by at least 20%.
Quality and supplier strategy
Potyondi László, a legal representative for operator TS Retail Kft., explained that the store prioritises affordable products while maintaining acceptable quality. “Suppliers must ensure that the items we stock can be sold at a minimum of 20% less than any other domestic retailer,” he said. Contrary to earlier reports, the store does not import goods from Russia; its owner is the Serbian company Huntrade.
Limited fresh produce but plenty of snacks
Despite its industrial location, Basket Plusz aims to provide convenience. The store features a manageable layout and accessible parking, though the absence of fresh fruit, vegetables, and dairy limits shoppers seeking everyday groceries. Instead, the shelves brim with packaged snacks, sweets, and beverages, many unfamiliar to the Hungarian market. Alcohol offerings are limited but attractively priced: a two-litre box of wine costs HUF 832, while one-litre vodka bottles are HUF 1,490. (Check out some photos taken in the store in Telex’s and Blikk’s articles!)
Opening day challenges
The grand opening, however, was not without its hiccups. Long queues at the three cash registers caused delays for roughly 90 minutes due to technical issues, testing the patience of even the most enthusiastic bargain hunters. Yet, most shoppers left impressed, eager to return for future visits.
Expansion plans
In the future, Basket Plusz plans to expand further. TS Retail’s management aims to open at least ten more outlets across Hungary next year, hoping to establish a strong presence in the growing hard discount sector. For price-conscious shoppers in Budapest, the arrival of Basket Plusz offers an intriguing mix of affordability, variety, and the novelty of a no-frills shopping experience.