After several years of growth, in 2020 the HoReCa sector saw a significant decline due to pandemic imposed measures
After one year of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is obvious that economies are changed to an extent where going fully back to the ways before is not very likely. Social distancing requirements – remote work and comprehensive digitalization became a new norm. Our new daily habits, altered out of necessity, have gradually started to affect all aspects of the economy, including trade and wholesale – the main topic of our recent conversation with Dušan Čolović, Sales and Delivery Director in METRO Cash & Carry Serbia.
Mr Čolović believes that new market trends and habits have developed when it comes to retail, wholesale and hospitality. After several years of growth, in 2020 the HoReCa sector saw a significant decline due to pandemic imposed measures. Some aspects of it though, like fast-food businesses, are showing signs of vitality. Food delivery from restaurants shows significant growth. When it comes to the Trader sector, Mr Čolović points out that the pandemic didn’t make such a significant impact, but a shift is noticeable from Traditional Trade channels (mainly small independent trader shops) to Modern Trade, as well an increase in the influence of local retail chains. There is also a visible growth in online shopping, as well in larger store formats – customers recognizing better choice of assortment and price, and safer, more comfortable shopping during the pandemic.
“Customers recognizing better choice of assortment and price, and safer, more comfortable shopping during the pandemic”
In the end, Mr. Čolović says that METRO is a good example of how wholesalers realistically reflect changing dynamics in the Trade and HoReCa sectors, due to its core business with both, but also prove high adaptability thanks to strong services and assortments aimed at end customers. “Adaptability and flexible business strategies will be some of the lessons learned in this pandemic”, concludes Mr. Čolović.