The Polish group Zabka, owner of the Froo convenience store chain, is diversifying its format on the Romanian market by launching its first food truck in George Enescu Square in Bucharest, active until July 20. This initiative coincides with an accelerated expansion of the retailer, which reported a local network of 230 stores at the end of the first quarter, while at the group level it aims to reach a threshold of around 16,000 units by 2028.
The launch of the new food truck format in the context of the World Cup football matches represents a strategic decision to test the convenience market, according to statements by Marta Królikowska, Marketing Director of Froo Romania. Beyond the temporary presence in George Enescu Square, the Polish group is consolidating its territorial footprint. In the first quarter, Zabka opened 32 stores in Romania, expanding into Brașov and Craiova with 10 units and reaching a national network of 230 locations, after officially entering the market in December 2023.
Globally, the Zabka network reached 12,750 stores at the end of March, recording an annual growth of 11.3%. The retailer attracted a record number of 2,742 new franchisees in the last 12 months and is on track to open over 1,300 stores this year. Long-term plans are ambitious: the group estimates operating around 16,000 units by 2028 across the two markets and sees an expansion potential of 7,600 new stores in Romania and 7,500 in Poland.
From a financial perspective, the group reported sales of EUR 1.74 billion for the first quarter, up 12% compared to the same period in 2025. Consolidated revenues rose by nearly 16%, exceeding EUR 1.54 billion. The New Growth Engines (NGE) division, which brings together digital operations and the Romanian business, reported a 25.7% advance to EUR 103.3 million, representing 11% of the group’s sales growth. Although adjusted EBITDA increased by 13% to EUR 158.6 million, Zabka recorded a net loss of EUR 17.2 million, which is nevertheless down from the negative result of 125 million zlotys reported in the first quarter of 2025. Listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange since 2024, the group has a market capitalization of EUR 5.7 billion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Froo’s new initiative in Romania?
Zabka Group has launched its first Froo food truck in Bucharest’s George Enescu Square to test the local convenience market.
How many stores does Zabka operate in Romania?
As of the end of the first quarter, Zabka’s local network in Romania reached 230 stores, following its official market entry in December 2023.
What are Zabka’s long-term expansion plans?
The group aims to operate around 16,000 stores by 2028, with an expansion potential of 7,600 new locations in Romania and 7,500 in Poland.