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%.