The inauguration of the new store marks the start of an ambitious expansion plan created by founder Iulian Nica together with the new shareholders of La Cocos, namely, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and private equity funds Morphosis Capital Fund II and CCEECAT Capital.
In August 2024, the EBRD and the two private equity funds invested EUR30-35 million to take over 56% of the shares of La Cocos which, by turnover, is the most powerful entrepreneurial business in Romania’s food retail. The deal stood at EUR30-35 million, in line with estimates by Ziarul Financiar (ZF) daily.
“The opening in Brasov is the first step of an ample expansion project which entails inauguration of 12 new stores over the next 3-5 years, targeting a total of minimum 15 units and a turnover of EUR1 billion until 2030”, according to company representatives.
In 2025, La Cocos plans to open three new units in Romania, aiming to be present in seven local cities and towns until the end of the year.
La Cocos currently operates two discount hypermarkets, one in Ploiesti and one in Bucharest. The retailer ended 2023 with sales worth nearly RON1 billion, 40% higher than in 2022.