Bulgaria’s government unveiled a nationwide chain of state-owned supermarkets, branded “Store for the People”, offering staple foods at a maximum 10% markup while prioritising locally sourced goods, according to Euractiv.
The initiative, spearheaded by Agriculture Minister Georgi Tahov, aims to alleviate food poverty in rural and economically deprived regions, where inflation has eroded access to affordable essentials.
Our goal is to close the product-to-consumer loop for essential goods. We want to show that socially-oriented trade is possible – with care for small towns and vulnerable communities.
With an initial investment of €5 million, the government plans to open up to 1,500 stores, focusing first on areas with limited retail infrastructure. The shops will stock Bulgarian-produced items—from dairy to cereals—sourced directly from local farmers and manufacturers.
The model bypasses corporate intermediaries, a move officials claim will bolster food security and rural economies. Free-market advocates argue price caps could distort competition, disadvantaging private grocers. Tahov countered that the stores will complement, not rival, existing chains.
We are not looking to compete with existing retail chains. Our aim is to improve access to essential products for citizens who currently have no nearby shopping options.
