Greek retail leader Fourlis Group is preparing to introduce a new Mega Intersport store format in Romania, targeting consumers with medium and low incomes. According to Profit.ro, this pilot investment marks a strategic move designed to be replicated across the region if successful.
The first Mega Intersport store is expected to open in the Balkan country between 2026 and 2027. With retail areas starting at 2,000 sqm and potentially reaching up to 10,000 sqm, the format will focus on affordable sportswear, own-brand products, and competitively priced items from leading international brands.
Romania’s role as the testing ground reflects Fourlis’ intention to challenge its main rival, Decathlon, which currently operates 31 stores in Romania and reported local sales of 1.367 billion lei. If the Romanian pilot proves successful, the new store format could expand to Greece in key locations such as Athens, Thessaloniki, and Crete.
Strong Financial Performance in 2024 Strengthens Expansion Plans
Fourlis Group reported a total revenue of €529.7 million for the full year 2024, reflecting resilience across its retail divisions. Gross profit rose to €248.4 million, with net profit from continuing operations reaching €6.2 million. Net profit including discontinued operations stood at €26.7 million. The Group’s cash position improved significantly, closing the year with €49.4 million in cash and equivalents, compared to €40.7 million in 2023.
Commenting on the financial results Dimitris Valachis, CEO Fourlis Group stated: “2024 was a pivotal year for Fourlis Group… Looking ahead we will continue to evolve and innovate to meet the needs of modern consumers, while building on our strenghts to shape the next chapter of retail in our region”
The Group’s sporting goods division, encompassing Intersport and The Athlete’s Foot, continues to be a significant contributor to revenue. In Romania, Intersport operates 32 stores and an e-commerce platform, with plans to expand to 40 stores in the medium term.
Strategic Initiatives and Outlook
In addition to the Mega Intersport initiative, Fourlis Group is actively pursuing strategic acquisitions to bolster its market presence. Notably, the Group announced today the completion of acquisition of Foot Locker’s operations in Greece and Romania, including three stores and e-commerce activities in each country. This acquisition aligns with Fourlis’ objective to strengthen its footprint in the sporting goods sector across Southeast Europe.
Furthermore, Fourlis is investing in its real estate arm, Trade Estates REIC, which reported a 73.1% increase in total revenues to €46.2 million in 2024. The real estate portfolio includes logistics centers and commercial properties that support the Group’s retail operations.
With these strategic moves, Fourlis aims to enhance its competitive position in the region, offering value-driven products and expanding its reach to a broader customer base. The Group’s commitment to innovation, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction remains central to its growth strategy.
Fourlis Group at a Glance
Year founded: 1950s (originating as Fourlis Bros S.A.) Headquarters: Athens, Greece Core activities: Retail (Sporting Goods, Furniture), Real Estate Main brands: Intersport, The Athlete’s Foot, IKEA (franchisee), Trade Estates REIC Employees: ~3,500+ (Group-wide across SE Europe) Retail presence: Greece, Romania, Bulgaria, Cyprus Revenues (2024): €529.7 million Stock Listing: Athens Stock Exchange (Symbol: FOYRK)
