Uzbekistan flag Uzbekistan: Buying and Selling

The distribution network in Uzbekistan

Evolution of the Sector
Despite rapidly developing supermarket retail networks in big cities, independent small grocers remain the largest channel in the grocery retailer sector, accounting for 48% of total retail sales. This is explained by the history of Uzbekistan’s retail market development, where there were no major investors, and food retailing was supported by a lot of independent small operators. This led to a tremendous increase in number of independent small retailers compared to other outlet types. The distribution of imported consumer goods is mainly carried out in souks and wholesale markets. Exchange rate restrictions have caused a decrease in the number of importers and in Western consumer goods imports. Given that a few importers have access to foreign currencies, they de facto become distributors of the products in question. Importer/distributor companies have to open at least one shop to obtain foreign currencies. They distribute through their shop and can also sell to traders who resell the items in souks.

Traditional grocery shops in Uzbekistan are usually small in size and employ fewer than 5-6 people. Normally, Uzbekistan consumers shop for food daily, and much of the shopping is still done in traditional markets, including farmers markets (bazaars) and small grocery stores.  At the same time, supermarkets in larger cities are becoming more popular among consumers. The total number of supermarkets has increased by 20% over the last 6 years and reached almost 1,600 outlets in 2016. The retail sales share of supermarkets is expected to continue to increase in the future. Many existing supermarkets in Uzbekistan have successfully tapped the fresh food market by offering foods at relatively competitive prices and providing a comfortable shopping environment.
Market share
There are two dominant supermarket chains in Uzbekistan:
-    Anglesey Food: is one of the biggest local holding companies successfully developing its supermarket business. It consists of numerous independent retail outlets, all under chain retailing. In supermarkets and non-store retailing, the company is well-known under the Korzinka.uz brand. Its main business is retailing and it focuses mainly on daily consumption products such as fresh fruits and vegetables, packaged food, beverages, semi-ready food products, as well as home care items.
-    Beijan Trade, which owns the two largest malls: “Mega Planet” which was constructed in Tashkent city in 2010, and “Samarkand Darvoza” which was opened in 2014. Beijan Trade also operates supermarkets under the MAKRO brand.
Retail Sector Organisations
Chamber of Commerce and Industry Uzbekistan
Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Uzbekistan

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Latest Update: December 2023

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