shopping

New survey highlights interesting facts about BNPL service users

food prices mandatory discounts end in hungary grocery shopping stores 20 August shops close shopping abroad romania bulgaria

Experts estimate that over 20,000 shoppers have already paid with Buy Now Pay Later in the last 1 year, with a total value of around HUF 1 billion. Several of Hungary’s leading online shops have already made BNPL available, and the adoption rate in Western European e-commerce has reached 20%. One of Hungary’s leading BNPL service providers has carried out a recent survey on the shopping habits of instalment users.

InstaCash surveyed more than 2,000 shoppers about their experiences with instalment payment solutions. The BNPL Spotlight2024 survey participants were considered premium customers, with an average income of over HUF 500,000 and an average age of 39. 60% of respondents shop online at least once a month and their average annual online spend exceeds half a million HUF.

Why do consumers choose BNPL?

“95% of the respondents were extremely satisfied, they particularly appreciated the speed, the paperlessness and the convenience of settling their payments by credit card,” stressed the co-owner of InstaCash. “This positive feedback confirms that user experience plays a significant role in making BNPL solutions popular with premium customers.”

Tomás Antal also quoted some of the written customer feedback:

“This is the first time in my life that I have not encountered a problem with this kind of administration, hats off! :)”

“Thank you! I have never had such a fast and flexible service! I recommend this platform and store to everyone! :)”

“Very fast! And practical too! I finally feel in 2024! We need more of these improvements!

77% of respondents also cited the 0% APR as important when asked why they chose this innovative payment method.

“This shows that it is of utmost importance for web shoppers that the service does not involve extra costs,” said the co-owner of InstaCash. Tomás Antal added that 70% of the respondents see instalment payments as a convenience service, as it allows them to pay for large purchases spread over several months. “This further confirms our previous experience that our customers are a financially conscious, premium class.”

The majority of customers surveyed do not intend to use any other type of credit product other than BNPL in the future, with 76% indicating that they would not want to use any other type of credit at all.

The study also asked how satisfied customers are with the BNPL payment process.

The results of the study show that 80% of customers who have tried both a commercial loan and a BNPL would prefer to use a BNPL in the future, while 20% are indifferent between a commercial loan and a BNPL.

Payment by instalments equals a competitive advantage

“We asked shoppers if they would consider if a merchant or service provider offered an installment facility when making a choice. 96% of respondents said that if the product and price were the same, they would prefer to shop at a place where installment payments were available. Only 4% of buyers said that they would always buy from the cheapest place, even if they did not offer interest-free installments, even if installment payments were available,” explained Tomás Antal. “In other words, the research also confirms that the BNPL solution is a safe, widely used and popular process.”

The research also revealed that a third of respondents were able to purchase a higher value product than they had originally planned thanks to BNPL. “In other words, the introduction of instalment payments can increase the average basket value,” emphasised Tomás Antal.

The expert cited the experience at garmin.hu as an example.

“Our strategic partner, an online store selling smartwatches and GPS devices, saw a 38% increase in sales thanks to the instalment facility, with a conversion rate of 64%. Customers rated the overall BNPL process with an average score of 4.7 on a five-point scale, and appreciated the simple, transparent, easy-to-use, fast, interest-free installment option.”

All market forecasts indicate that the number of online shops offering BNPL will continue to grow. “In the near future, another 10% of e-merchants plan to introduce the option,” highlighted the co-owner of InstaCash. BNPL is no longer just a fad for innovative small and medium-sized merchants,” said Tomás Antal. “More and more ‘TOP league’ e-merchants have also decided to provide their customers with the option.”

Read also:

  • Hungarian government loophole: Guest workers can still come to Hungary – read more HERE
  • Hungary becomes regional distributor of Russian gas, generating windfall revenues

Featured image: depositphotos.com

Opposition leader Magyar slams government over surging food prices and inflation

péter magyar tisza party orbán inflation

Páter Magyar, the leader of the opposition Tisza Party, said on Wednesday that contrary to the government’s “lies” that inflation had been stopped, the latest figures showed that it was in fact on the rise again.

Magyar said in a statement that over the past four years, food prices had been increasing at a shockingly high rate and it was the price of basic foodstuff that had soared at the highest rate “on 1 January this year”. He said that food price inflation in Hungary had been two and a half times higher than the European Union average, adding that food prices in Hungary are now higher than the EU average.

Magyar said that Prime Minister Viktor Orbán who was still on holiday in India “would normally not talk about the fact that as a result of ‘flawed’ economic measures, such as a record-high VAT in Europe, special retail taxes and another nine types of taxes, the price of white bread has gone up in four years by 163 percent , the price of milk by 124 percent, and the price of eggs by 112 percent”. Magyar added that a family of four had to spend on average HUF 92,000 (EUR 224) more on food now than four years ago.

Read also:

Early 2025 set to bring sharp price hikes in Hungary: Is your wallet ready?

grocery shopping stores price hikes inflation

Hungary may face substantial price hikes in early 2025, according to the latest inflation report from the Hungarian National Bank (MNB). Companies, grappling with rising costs, are anticipated to implement noticeable price adjustments in January, following months of suppressed consumer price growth.

Companies absorb costs, but for how long?

In recent months, firms have managed to offset climbing expenses by reducing profits rather than hiking prices. According to HVG, import prices have been steadily increasing since May 2024, and industrial production costs have been rising since mid-2023. Yet, consumer prices in sectors like durable goods even dropped slightly—down 0.6% from July to November 2024. This apparent resilience is largely due to intense market competition. Companies in highly competitive industries have prioritised retaining customers over maximising profit margins, keeping price growth minimal. For instance, profits in pasta and preserved flour products surged by 265% and 107%, respectively, between 2022 and 2023. Since May 2024, however, prices in these categories fell by 4.1% and 4.5%. Similarly, telecom companies reduced service fees by 7% in autumn 2024, following a 105% profit boost over two years.

Early 2025: A turning point?

Despite these efforts, the MNB warns that the current trend may not endure. Businesses in the retail and service sectors have revised their price expectations upwards, signalling a shift from the moderate outlook of early 2024. Analysts fear that prolonged cost increases in imports and production could eventually trickle down to consumers. The inflation outlook for 2025 remains uncertain, with forecasts ranging from an optimistic annual average of 3.3% to a pessimistic 4.1%. Experts agree that inflation will likely peak in the year’s first few months before stabilising later. The degree of January price hikes by companies will play a pivotal role in determining whether the current slowdown in profit-driven inflation becomes permanent.

Price hikes: Why monitoring prices matters

The MNB urges consumers to closely monitor early 2025 price changes, as these will offer critical insights into the trajectory of Hungary’s inflationary trends. While recent price drops in some sectors have provided relief, sustained cost increases could soon create a ripple effect across the economy. The stakes are high as the nation braces for the economic challenges of the new year, with household budgets likely to feel the pressure.

Read also:

Featured image: depositphotos.com

Is the opening of Russian chain store Mere in Hungary not so certain after all?

mere russian discount chain hungary

Russian discount retailer Mere has outlined bold plans to enter Hungary’s retail market, aiming to open 200 stores within three years and rival top chains like Lidl. However, repeated delays, regulatory hurdles, and a lack of visible progress have cast doubt on Mere’s opening in Hungary.

Mere’s ambitious plans in Hungary

As VG reports, last April, reports emerged in the Hungarian press that the Russian-backed discount retailer Mere was planning to expand into Hungary. Based on an email sent in February to potential business partners, the Russian chain store outlined ambitious plans to open 20 stores in Budapest and its suburbs by mid-2025, aiming for 200 stores nationwide within three years, with a projected turnover of EUR 700 million.

Such figures would position the Russian chain among Hungary’s top 10 retail chains, comparable to Lidl, which took 15 years to achieve similar results. However, neither the Hungarian government nor the local market was aware of these plans, sparking scepticism. Insider sources later confirmed Mere’s intentions, albeit on a smaller scale, with plans for 15 stores, starting in Budapest, Vác, and Szeged, subject to regulatory approval.

Russian discount store Mere in Serbia
The discount chain in Serbia. Photo: Depositphotos.com

Regulatory hurdles?

Last spring, Mere allegedly began preparing the extensive documentation required to comply with Hungary’s “plaza ban,” which mandates special approval for commercial properties over 400 square metres. The Hajdú-Bihar County Government Office, responsible for granting exemptions, was anticipated to make a decision on the Russian chain’s plans by summer 2024. However, no progress was made by year-end. In a statement, the office confirmed that TS Retail Ltd, Mere’s Hungarian subsidiary, had not submitted any permit applications. This raised questions about the feasibility of the Russian discount chain’s promised expansion into Hungary.

Uncertainty grows

TS Retail Ltd, founded in early 2023, reported no sales and a tax loss of HUF 10 million (EUR 24,167) that year. Owned by Serbia-based Hung Trade DOO Beograd, whose proprietors are linked to Mere in Russia, the subsidiary was expected to manage the chain’s Hungarian operations. Despite job advertisements for the new stores, no construction permits have been filed. With no stores opened by 2024, the chain’s ambitious plans for a significant presence in Hungary appear to be on indefinite hold.

Will the Russian chain ever open stores in Hungary?

The Russian chain’s entry into Hungary remains uncertain after repeated delays, missing four launch dates, the most recent in December 2024. Originally planned before the pandemic, the project was revived in late 2023 but has yet to materialise, casting doubt on the seriousness of the retailer’s intentions. If Mere does open, it promises to introduce a unique retail model. The Russian chain is planning to cater to Hungary’s price-sensitive consumers.

Read also:

Which stores will be open during Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Hungary? – UPDATE

Did you forget something? Did your bejgli crack and want to remake it for perfection? Don’t worry, you can still buy the necessary ingredients last minute before the holidays. Most supermarkets will be open on 24 December but remember that they will have shortened opening hours.

Which supermarkets will be open?

As Telex writes, the majority of supermarkets will remain open on the 24th of December. However, they will operate with opening hours different from usual. Most of them will be open until noon, thus you should hurry if you forgot something and want to buy it at the last minute! As shops will remain closed during Christmas, 25 and 26 December, they will open on the 27th and operate as usual. On 31 December the shops will most likely close around 2-4 pm.

Auchan stores will operate until noon on 24 December, resume normal opening hours from 27 to 30 December, and close at 4 pm on 31 December.

Penny stores nationwide will close at noon on 24 December but offer extended hours on 19, 20, 21, and 23 December, staying open until 9 pm. From 27 to 30 December, they will follow normal schedules and close at 2 pm on 31 December.

Most Spar and Interspar locations will shut at noon on 24 December, with exceptions for some shopping centre stores. Interspar hypermarkets will operate from 6 am to 10 pm from 20 to 23 December, while select Spar supermarkets will extend hours on 21 and 22 December. Between the holidays, normal schedules will resume, with supermarkets closing at 2 pm and most Interspar hypermarkets at 4 pm on 31 December.

Tesco stores will close at noon on 24 December, operate as usual during the festive period, and shut at 6 pm on 31 December.

Aldi will open until 12 noon on 24 December and close at 4 pm on 31 December.

supermarket shopping cart 24 December shopping hours
Photo: depositphotos.com

Which shops will be closed on Christmas Eve?

According to Magyar Nemzet, the following chains will remain closed on 24 December in Hungary:

  • Rossmann
  • Media Markt
  • Praktiker
  • Jysk

In addition, Lidl will remain closed on 24 December too but extend hours on 23 December. Between the holidays, Lidl stores will operate as usual and close at 4 pm on 31 December. Two popular chains, CBA and DM still have not shared whether they are planning to be open on Christmas Eve or not. We will provide updates as we gain more information.

Post offices and pharmacies on duty

Post offices open until 23 December 2024 – normal opening hours

24 December 2024 (Tuesday) is a day of rest – due to the pre-holiday parcel rush, postal service points operating on Saturday will be open until 12 noon.

25-26 December 2024 (Wednesday-Thursday) public holiday – all postal service points will be closed.

27 December 2024 (Friday) holiday – all post offices operating on Saturday will be open for up to 4 hours until 12 noon.

28 December 2024 (Saturday) – post offices operating on Saturday will be open for a maximum of 4 hours until 12 noon.

30 December 2024 – Postal service points will be open according to normal working hours.

31 December 2024 – all postal service points open for a maximum of 12 hours.

1 January 2025 (Wednesday) public holiday – all postal service points will be closed.

From 2 January 2025 (Thursday) – all postal service points will be open according to normal working hours.

Pharmacies will also be closed, but pharmacies on duty or on-call will be open on these days. On-call pharmacies can be found on the OGYÉI website.

24 December is not a public holiday in Hungary (yet)

As we have reported HERE, the Hungarian National Election Committee (NVB) has approved a referendum proposal to designate 24 December as a public holiday, marking a key milestone in the Trade Union of Commercial Employees’ efforts to expand Hungary’s list of recognised holidays. The referendum question, which proposes making 24 December an official holiday from 2025, was endorsed by a 10-2 vote during the NVB’s session. Currently, Hungarian public holidays include 1 January, 15 March, Good Friday, Easter Monday, 1 May, Whit Monday, 20 August, 23 October, 1 November, and 25–26 December.

Read also:

Featured image: depositphotos.com

Aldi expands in Hungary: 10 new stores in 2024 and largest outlet opens in Budapest

aldi retail chain shopping

Aldi opened 10 new stores in Hungary this year, as in the previous years, and wants to continue expanding at this rate in the country, the local unit of the German supermarket chain said on Friday, on the occasion of the opening of the 182nd Aldi store in the country.

The company’s latest store, in Budapest’s District XI, is also the one with the largest sales area. With its sales area of over 1,800sqms, it’s almost twice as big as an average Aldi. The company spent HUF 19.5 billion on investments in Hungary in 2024. It had a headcount of close to 6,500 at year-end and around 270 Hungarian suppliers who supply 60 % of the products sold by the chain. Aldi had revenue of more than HUF 490 billion last year, company records show.

Read also:

Two of Hungary’s favourite retail chains open new stores: here is where and when!

retail chain store pepco

Two of Hungary’s favourite retail chains, Rossmann and Pepco, are set to open new stores this spring, bringing convenience and variety to shoppers in a rapidly developing area of Miskolc. The new locations will offer everything from cosmetics and household goods to clothing and home decor, meeting the growing demand for accessible retail options outside the city center.

Exciting news for residents of Miskolc’s iconic Diósgyőr district! Renowned retail chains Rossmann and Pepco will open new stores on Kiss Ernő Street by late February or early March, creating what could be dubbed a local shopping centre, BOON reports. The development follows significant demand for such outlets in the area.

Photo: depositphotos.com

First of these retail stores in Diósgyőr

While Miskolc already boasts several Rossmann and Pepco locations, Diósgyőr and nearby neighbourhoods like Kilián and Bulgárföld lacked easy access to these retailers. Until now, locals had to travel to the city centre for household essentials, clothing, or beauty products.

The new Rossmann store will offer a wide range of cosmetics, personal care items, and household goods. Meanwhile, Pepco will cater to budget-conscious shoppers with clothing, home accessories, and kitchenware. Residents are particularly excited about Pepco, as no similar store previously operated in the area.

Locals’ concerns about the new stores

Despite the enthusiasm, some locals have raised concerns about traffic management around the new stores, noting challenges with access and parking. Construction on the site began last July, and while job postings for the stores haven’t been announced yet, they are expected in the coming weeks.

Read also:

Featured image: depositphotos.com

Warning to Primark fans: Beware of scams targeting online shoppers in Hungary

Primark has issued a warning to its customers in Hungary to remain vigilant against fraudulent websites falsely claiming to sell the brand’s products online. The fast fashion retailer, which opened its first Hungarian store in Budapest earlier this year, has confirmed that it does not operate an online store in the country.

Fraudulent websites target Hungarian shoppers

According to Forbes.hu, several fake websites, including www.primark-magyarorszag.com, have been reported for scamming customers by offering non-existent online shopping services. Victims have lost tens of thousands of forints to these schemes, with some individuals reporting losses of up to HUF 40,000–50,000 (EUR 98–122).

Fans of the newcomer franchise have voiced their concerns in online groups, sharing stories of being duped by these fraudulent sites. Among the deceptive domains identified in the past are primarkmagyarorszag.com, primarkhungarywebshop.com, and primarkonlinewebshop.com. All of these have been confirmed as scams.

The retail chain has taken action against these fraudulent websites. According to a company statement sent to Forbes.hu:
“We treat such issues with the utmost priority and take all necessary measures to have these fake websites removed as quickly as possible. We urge our customers to exercise caution when encountering suspicious sites and to refrain from sharing personal information with unknown online sources. Our official website, https://www.primark.com/hu-hu, provides information about our latest collections and in-store availability.”

 

Hungarian Primark store
Photo: Commons.wikimedia.org By Kolforn

No online shopping, but expansion continues

Despite the increasing popularity of e-commerce, the franchise remains primarily a brick-and-mortar retailer. Its only online shopping service, Click & Collect, is currently being trialled in select UK stores. Customers in Hungary do not have access to online ordering or delivery services, a fact scammers exploit to deceive shoppers.

Primark opened its first Hungarian store on 28 May 2024, at the Arena Mall in Budapest. The store offers the brand’s full range of products, including clothing for men, women, and children, as well as home decor, beauty products, and accessories.

The fast fashion giant continues its expansion in Europe and beyond. With over 400 stores in 16 countries, Primark plans to grow its network to 530 locations by 2026, further solidifying its position as one of Europe’s most popular retailers.

Stay safe

The Irish retail chain advises customers to rely on its official website for accurate information about its products and services. If you come across any suspicious websites claiming to sell Primark products, report them immediately to prevent further scams.

Read also:

SHEIN opens its first Hungarian store in Budapest shopping centre – UPDATED with SHEIN deny

On 10 December 2024, SHEIN made a stylish splash in Budapest by unveiling its first-ever Hungarian pop-up store at Sugár Shopping Centre. This exciting venture invites fashion enthusiasts to experience the brand’s trendy offerings in person, as eager shoppers lined up to explore a chic space brimming with affordable options.

SHEIN in Budapest

As Pénzcentrum writes, on 10 December 2024, global fashion giant SHEIN launched its first Hungarian store in Budapest’s Sugár Shopping Centre, located on Örs Vezér Square. Known for its strong online presence, the brand’s entry into the Hungarian retail market takes the form of a pop-up store, offering customers a chance to engage with the brand in person. The opening drew significant attention, with eager shoppers queuing ahead of the event to explore the modern, minimalist space showcasing a wide range of trendy clothing, shoes, accessories, and home décor products. Prices remained consistent with the online store, complemented by special promotions and exclusive gifts to mark the occasion.

SHEIN in Hungary
Photo: depositphotos.com

Fake store?

SHEIN told us that their products are only available online through their official website and app. Any stores in Hungary that claim to be SHEIN stores are not authorised by SHEIN or affiliated with them in any way, and they cannot guarantee the authenticity or quality of the products they offer. From time to time, they may host temporary offline retail “pop-up” experiences, but customers will always hear about these directly from SHEIN via their social media channels. They are taking the appropriate measures to deal with this unauthorized store and to protect their customers in Hungary. Here’s a video of the fake store:

@lauraaa_l1 Shein Store Budapesten! Megéri ellátogatni?? #fy #foryoupage #fyp #sheinstore #budapest #foryou ♬ sonido original – SONIDOS LARGOS

Read also:

Featured image: depositphotos.com

Another unstaffed 24/7 smart shop may open in 2025 in Szeged

Szeged may see Hungary’s second unstaffed 24/7 smart shop in 2025 if Coop can carry out its plans, János Kelemen, the CEO and President of the company, told Délmagyar. The first unstaffed Hungarian grocery store opened at the Fény utca market and is run by the Hungarian Charity Service of the Order of Malta. Therefore, it does not generate a profit. Consequently, the Szeged grocery store can become Hungary’s first profitable unstaffed shop.

Unstaffed 24/7 smart shop may open in 2025

According to Telex, the Coop unit in Szeged’s Szent István Square can become Hungary’s second unstaffed grocery store, which may be ready in 2025. The store has been revamped, and after its reopening, customers noticed that traditional cashier’s desks have been removed to give space for self-service desks. For now, those are staffed so customers can pay there just like they usually do. However, that may change soon.

János Kelemen, the CEO and President of Coop said that they would like to open the first unstaffed Coop unit by early 2025 in Szeged. Sharing more details on the issue would be unresponsible, he added.

Telex wrote that the unstaffed Coop grocery stores could be open 24/7, but the company did not share any information concerning the exact technology they would operate.

In the Czech Republic, the first unstaffed Coop units were opened in 2022. Customers can shop there with a face-recognising app and cannot pay with cash. However, the system allows you to shop even on Sunday night or early morning on Friday since they are always open.

Lukáš Němčík said that 24/7 unstaffed grocery stores are especially popular in rural areas because they allow locals to purchase the essentials without driving to a supermarket. In case of emergency, customers can call the remote security officer.

Another unstaffed smart store in Budapest

According to an RTL Klub report, Hungary’s first unstaffed grocery shop opened at Budapest’s Fény utca market. The operator is the Hungarian Charity Service of the Order of Malta, and they sell the products of the charity service employees who work in the poorest Hungarian villages.

The charity service does not regard their grocery store as a business branch. Instead, they believe it is helping poorer families and buyers as well. Tamás Romhányi, the communications director of the charity, said their Fény utca market store does not generate profit.

Another unstaffed 24-7 smart shop may open in 2025 in Szeged
The first unstaffed shop in Hungary. Photo: PrtScr/RTL Klub

This shop is still one-of-a-kind in Hungary, and its operation teaches lessons to everybody planning to copy the initiative. The shop sells various products, from handmade cheese to syrups. You can shop there with the help of an app. If you take a product from the shelf, the system automatically adds it to your basket. If you put it down, the product will be deleted. You can pay with your phone or debit card.

Here are some more photos of the Budapest shop:

The charity service plans to open such stores in poorer and smaller villages in rural Hungary, where people can buy essentials locally.

Read also:

Hungarian billionaire’s group acquires 47% stake in Auchan Magyarország, takes over management

Hungary’s Indotek Group has closed the acquisition of a 47% stake in Auchan Magyarország and will take over operative management of the retail chain, the commercial real estate company, majority-owned by Dániel Jellinek, said on Wednesday.

With 19 hypermarkets and five supermarkets with a combined area of over 250,000 sqm, Auchan Magyarország controls around 6.8% of Hungary’s retail market. It also operates 19 petrol stations. Auchan Magyarország had a revenue of HUF 460 billion (EUR 1.11 billion) last year. It employs around 6,000 people.

auchan supermarket chain
Auchan. Source: Wikimedia Commons/Lionel Allorge

Indotek Group operates more than 50 shopping centres and retail properties in Hungary and abroad.

The Group has agreed to acquire Ceetrus Hungary and Nhood Services Hungary to make it the sole owner of smaller storefronts at Auchan Magyarország’s locations. That transaction is in the process of closing.

Read also:

German drugstore chain Müller to open gigantic shop in Budapest

German drugstore chain Müller to open gigantic shop in Budapest

German retailer Müller is closing its Váci Street store in Budapest, but shoppers can look forward to the launch of Hungary’s largest Müller store, a three-storey flagship set to open nearby with a grand celebration.

Müller announces Budapest shop closure

24.hu writes that German retailer Müller has revealed plans to close its store at 19-21 Váci Street, Budapest, with a clearance sale offering 20% off all products from 12 November. The closure marks a strategic move as the German company gears up for an ambitious new chapter in Hungary. The announcement was made via the company’s Facebook page, where the German drugstore chain also teased an upcoming venture that promises to elevate its presence in the region.

Gigantic new shop

The German drugstore chain is set to open Hungary’s largest store, a three-storey, 2,800-square-metre flagship, just steps away from the old location at the corner of Váci Street and Régi Posta Street, where the historic Fontana House once stood. The site will also feature 40 upscale apartments as part of Müller Drogéria Magyarország Lp’s real estate development. With construction progressing rapidly, the chain has promised a grand opening celebration, though the exact date remains under wraps.

Read also:

Big change ahead: Hungarian government bans alcohol from shop windows

Hungarian government bans alcohol from shop windows

The Hungarian government is rolling out sweeping changes, from restricting minors’ access to online pornography to banning alcohol adverts visible from public spaces. While the move aims to safeguard children, the amendments leave room for interpretation, sparking questions about their broader implications.

Restricting pornographic content

As Economx writes, the Hungarian government has introduced an amendment to its laws, as published in the latest Hungarian Gazette (Magyar Közlöny), aimed at restricting minors’ access to pornographic content online. This includes changes to legislation governing electronic commerce, advertising, and information society services to enhance child protection. The amendments place new obligations on video-sharing platform providers, creating a stricter regulatory framework. While the focus on safeguarding children is undisputed, concerns have arisen over potentially hidden elements within the legislation.

18+ adult content on laptop
Photo: depositphotos.com

Expanding regulations

The Hungarian government is expanding its regulations on advertising to enhance child protection. Existing prohibitions on adverts that could harm children’s physical, mental, emotional, or moral development, or those promoting identities differing from birth sex, gender reassignment, or homosexuality, are being supplemented with a new restriction. Advertisements targeting children or minors that depict goods or their use in a manner harmful or dangerous to life, health, or physical integrity will now also be banned. However, the Hungarian Gazette offers limited clarity on what constitutes harm to physical integrity, leaving room for interpretation.

Hungarian government bans advertising alcohol

According to the revisited law on advertising alcohol, it will be prohibited to advertise alcoholic beverages in the following places:

  • on the outside of the front cover of the press product or, in the case of a website, on the opening page
  • in a theatre or cinema before 8 pm
  • immediately before, during and immediately after a programme intended for children or minors
  • on products and their packaging clearly intended for playing
  • in a public education or health establishment and within 200 metres of any entrance to such an establishment, on outdoor advertising material, in a shop window or otherwise visible from the public spaces

The Hungarian government has introduced stricter regulations on advertising alcoholic beverages. Previously, the ban was limited to public education and health establishments and outdoor advertising within 200 metres of their entrances. Under the new rules, advertising alcoholic beverages is also prohibited in shop windows or any locations visible from public spaces, though the exact interpretation of “visible from public spaces” remains ambiguous.

Hungarian government bans alcohol from shop windows
Photo: depositphotos.com

Read also:

Featured image: depositphotos.com

Hungary’s bottle redemption system: Major change ahead, many consumers furious

MOHU Hungary's bottle redemption system

Many people in Hungary are frustrated with the MOHU bottle redemption system due to a range of operational issues that have surfaced since its launch. Consumers have reported problems with the machines frequently failing to recognise bottles, leading to long queues and confusion at collection points. Now, a new change will make customers even more furious.

Hungary’s bottle redemption system faces new limit

Blikk reports that Hungary’s bottle redemption system recently introduced a transaction limit, capping the number of redeemable bottles at 100 per session, equivalent to a maximum voucher value of HUF 5,000 (EUR 12.36). Implemented by MOHU, this update requires individuals looking to redeem more than 100 bottles to conduct separate transactions. This policy, which came into effect on 26 October, was highlighted by a notice on a vending machine, as reported by Pénzcentrum. The instructions also advise that any queries be directed to MOHU, the overseeing organisation for this redemption programme. Many people have already been frustrated by Hungary’s bottle redemption system, and now even more express their annoyance on social media platforms.

Read also:

Jysk opens new store in Hungary

Danish home furnishings retailer JYSK opened its hundredth store in Hungary, in Debrecen, on Thursday.

JYSK opened its first store in Hungary in 2005.

JYSK stores in Hungary had revenue of HUF 74.6bn in the business year ended August 31.

JYSK employs around 1,000 people in Hungary, Sandor Szimeiszter, the company’s director in charge of Hungary told MTI.

Christian Thorning, the Danish ambassador to Hungary, noted that Danish-owned companies employed over 16,000 people in Hungary.

Jysk opens new store in Hungary
Photo: Denmark in Hungary/Facebook

Jysk opens new store in Hungary
Photo: Denmark in Hungary/Facebook

Worker in another Jsyk unit in Hungary:

Hungarian economy workers jysk new store
Photo: MTI

Read also:

  • Major interior design chain to expand in Hungary – read more HERE

23 October: Which stores will be open during Hungary’s national holiday?

aldi store shopping 1 may 20 august 23 october

With Hungary’s national holiday on 23 October commemorating the 1956 Revolution, most shops across the country will be closed. However, for the rest of the week, normal opening hours will resume. While many larger retail chains will shut their doors on this day, some stores will still be open for those in need of essentials. Here’s what you need to know.

Closed stores on 23 October

Major supermarket chains such as Lidl, Aldi, Tesco, Auchan, Penny, SPAR, INTERSPAR, and Metro will remain closed on 23 October. However, these chains will operate as usual on 22 October, and from 24 to 27 October, according to their standard hours.

For stores under the CBA, Coop, and Real banners, opening hours may vary depending on location. It is recommended to check with individual outlets for details regarding their schedule on 23 October, Világgazdaság reports.

Which stores will be open?

MOL fuel shortage Hungary
Photo: Facebook/MOL

Despite the closures, some businesses will remain open, ensuring that essential services are still available during the holiday. You can expect the following to stay open on 23 October:

  • Gas stations
  • Pharmacies operating on duty rosters
  • Independent flower shops
  • Newsstands
  • Sweet shops
  • Restaurants and entertainment venues
  • Small family-owned stores and tobacco shops, where the owner or a family member is working.

Additionally, shops located at gas stations, such as SPAR, Tesco, and Fresh Corner, will be open, and many 24/7 convenience stores will also continue to operate.

Upcoming daylight saving time change

As Mindemegette writes in its article, shortly, we will be switching to winter time. On the night of 26 to 27 October, we will set our clocks back one hour, from 3 AM to 2 AM.

Read also:

Featured image: depositphotos.com

Hungary’s largest parcel network disappears: What it means for Hungary’s parcel delivery

packeta online shopping delivery company

Hungary’s parcel delivery landscape is undergoing significant change as the well-known Czech Packeta brand is set to disappear from the market. This shift comes after Foxpost, the Hungarian parcel delivery company, and Packeta were acquired by a consortium of international investors earlier this year. The merger has created Hungary’s largest parcel locker and delivery network, but now the focus is on branding—and it’s Foxpost that will continue to operate, as Packeta slowly phases out.

The acquisition and decision to rebrand

In the summer of 2024, Foxpost and Packeta came under common ownership, with the new leadership needing to decide which brand would remain in the Hungarian market, Forbes reports. The decision to stick with Foxpost, known for its distinctive fox logo and name, was made public by the new owners in September. This move will solidify Foxpost’s position, with all Packeta-branded parcel lockers to be gradually rebranded in the coming months.

packeta online shopping delivery company
The name ‘Packeta’ to disappear from Hungary’s parcel delivery market. Photo: Packeta Hungary

Ádám Bengyel, Foxpost’s co-founder, will continue as CEO of the newly merged entity. He stated that the decision was primarily driven by brand recognition. Foxpost has long been established as a trusted name in Hungary, with deep roots in the parcel delivery sector. Retaining the familiar branding, he argues, offers significant advantages in building consumer trust and promoting business growth.

The scale of the new network

With the merger, Foxpost is set to become the largest parcel delivery network in Hungary. By the end of 2024, Foxpost will operate approximately 3,100 parcel lockers and 1,700 pickup points, surpassing competitors like GLS, Easybox, and MPL. The company is expected to handle not just locker-based deliveries but also home delivery services, making it the top choice for e-commerce businesses operating in Hungary.

Challenges ahead for the holiday season

foxpost parcel delivery webshop shopping
Photo: Foxpost

Despite this growth, the combined company is not without its challenges. Earlier this year, both Foxpost and Packeta struggled to keep up with demand, especially during major sales events hosted by online platforms such as Vinted and Temu. These issues caused significant delays in deliveries, frustrating customers as packages arrived weeks late.

The upcoming holiday season, including Black Friday and Christmas, is expected to test the capacity of the network even further. The company is already making preparations to avoid the logistical nightmares that occurred in previous months, including adding warehouse space and increasing partnerships with subcontractors.

While the Foxpost brand will officially take over, the operational merger between Foxpost Plc. and Packeta Hungary Ltd. is still in progress. No major operational changes are expected this year, as the company focuses on ensuring smooth operations through the busy holiday period. However, lingering concerns remain, especially after the significant disruptions caused earlier in the year.

Parcel delivery in Hungary: Looking ahead

While the transition to a Foxpost-branded network is well underway, the company is eager to distance itself from any lingering negative associations with Packeta’s logistical failures earlier this year. In a recent statement, Foxpost clarified that the decision to retire the Packeta name was made purely for brand consistency, denying any connection to the previous customer complaints surrounding Packeta’s service.

Read also:

Hungarian ministry launches campaign against webshops and courier companies

The national economy minister has instructed the consumer protection authority to step up probes of webshops and courier companies in light of the large number of complaints, the ministry said on Friday. The National Economy Ministry and the Consumer Protection Authority are primarily investigating compliance with information and complaint handling obligations to ensure that Hungarian families are not harmed when ordering online.

According to the statement, government agencies acting in their capacity as consumer protection authorities have received numerous complaints about delivery problems related to products ordered online. While some parcels have not been delivered to customers for weeks, customer services are often unavailable or complaints are not handled properly, causing serious harm to a wide range of consumers.

The ministry noted that nearly 300 probes were conducted of webshops and courier companies in the first half of the year, resulting in almost HUF 70 million (EUR 175,000) of penalties.

Read also:

Featured image: illustration, depositphotos.com