Brian Beck, BILLA Board Member for Wholesale and Merchants: ‘Our merchants embody the BILLA DNA - many were previously sales or store managers, some even started with us as apprentices. We want to build partnerships with 100 independent retailers by the end of 2027. A particular focus is always on the quality of the retailers because we see how well the independently managed stores are received by customers. Our BILLA retailers are not only important employers, but also important local training centres - always strengthened by BILLA as a reliable partner.’
BILLA model on course for expansion: external applications possible from 2026
By the end of the year, there will be stores managed by BILLA and BILLA PLUS retailers in five federal states (Vienna, Lower Austria, Upper Austria, Burgenland and Styria), and in Carinthia from 2025. The aim is to make a total of 45 stores independent by the end of 2025 and to establish partnerships with 100 retailers by the end of 2027. From 2026, BILLA will also open the model to interested parties who have not previously worked for BILLA. ‘We are delighted that BILLA is investing in our district with the merchants, not only creating jobs but also supporting local initiatives. Such projects are crucial for economic development and the strengthening of regional trade,’ says district head Ernst Nevrivy.
Businessman Cenk Aydin creates 15 new jobs with newly designed BILLA store
Cenk Aydin started a year ago as a BILLA retailer in Breitenleerstraße in the 22nd district. In recent weeks, he and BILLA have modernised and expanded the store, significantly increasing the sales area from 760 m² to 1,440 m². This has permanently created 15 new jobs, meaning that 45 employees, including two apprentices, now work at the store. The existing photovoltaic system on the roof was also expanded. Aydin also initiated a partnership with the Red Cross to distribute food.
Cenk Aydin, BILLA Kaufmann in Donaustadt: ‘The BILLA Kaufleute model offers me a lot of freedom to realise my vision. Thanks to the modernisation and expansion of my store, I can respond even better to the needs of my customers, for example with a wide range of healthy food options or an innovative service robot. My strong team, which has grown by 15 new employees, and close partnerships with regional suppliers such as ADAMAH BioHof make this possible. This is very well received by my customers.’
BILLA salesman Cenk Aydin convinces with a variety of innovations
Cenk Aydin's BILLA store now has its own large section for health-conscious nutrition. The range has also been expanded to include even more plant-based, gluten-free and sugar-free products. The retailer also focuses on regional products such as fruit and vegetables from ADAMAH BioHof in Glinzendorf, chocolate from Ritonka in Gerasdorf and sweet pastries from Felizitas in Retz. Customers will also find a new fresh fish counter and food trends such as Dubai chocolate and El Gusto empanadas. A new service robot is on hand to help customers with their shopping and the store will be a MyFlexBox and postal partner from December. Further information can be found at billa.at/aydin.
