Shower of professional awards for SPAR Hungary: recognition in sustainability, retail and communications
In recent months, SPAR Hungary has garnered professional acclaim not only for its innovations in sustainability and retail, but also for outstanding achievements in communications. The company received a total of six prestigious industry awards, alongside two of its senior managers being ranked among the top professionals in their fields—further positive reinforcement of SPAR’s ongoing efforts.
“For us, industry awards are confirmation that we’re on the right track – that what we do matters to consumers as well. Whether it’s about the standards of our stores, our sustainability campaigns or technological innovations, we always aim to make shopping easier, more conscious and more sustainable. These awards are particularly valuable because they show that the industry views our consumer-focused efforts as exemplary,” said Márk Maczelka, head of communications at SPAR Hungary.
Retailer of the Year – Three prestigious awards
At the 2025 Retailer of the Year awards organised by Trade Magazine, SPAR received three key recognitions. The INTERSPAR store in Székesfehérvár was named Hypermarket of the Year, praised for its outstanding customer experience and extensive product range. The INTERSPAR chain also earned the title of Hypermarket Chain of the Year, recognising its consistent high-quality service. In addition, SPAR supermarkets were awarded Supermarket Chain of the Year, a testament to their reliable, consumer-centric performance in everyday shopping.
Green Pledge – award for eco-conscious consumer education
SPAR’s Plastic-Free July campaign, run under the Green Pledge programme, showcased how sustainability and consumer education can go hand in hand. The multi-channel initiative encouraged shoppers to opt for reusable fruit and vegetable bags, bakery sacks, and water bottles, while prize draws and inspiring social media content raised awareness about conscious consumption.
Symbol of Sustainability – technological innovation to reduce plastic use
SPAR was also honoured with the 2025 Symbol of Sustainability award in the Technological Solution & Process category. The judging panel recognised innovations that support a circular economy and demonstrably reduce plastic use. SPAR’s new packaging solutions and responsible waste management practices not only offer eco-friendly alternatives but also bring tangible changes to customers’ everyday lives.
Food Industry Innovation Award – recognition for sustainable packaging
During the 82nd National Agriculture and Food Exhibition and Fair (OMÉK), SPAR Hungary received second prize in the Food Industry Innovation Awards, jointly presented by the Ministry of Agriculture and the Agrármarketing Centrum Nonprofit Ltd. The award recognised the introduction of flow-pack packaging technology at the Regnum Meat Processing Plant in Bicske. This new solution, used for S-BUDGET 500g minced pork, uses 70% less plastic than traditional plastic tray packaging, while maintaining freshness and quality. In 2024 alone, this innovation enabled SPAR to save nearly 20 tonnes of plastic—an exemplary case of combining sustainability, technological advancement, and high-quality service for customers.
Communications and marketing – SPAR leaders among the best
In the 10th anniversary edition of Marketing&Média magazine’s Top 50 Marketing Leaders ranking, Károly Németh, SPAR Hungary’s Head of Marketing, was placed 22nd. In the magazine’s Top 50 PR Leaders list – compiled for the third time – Márk Maczelka, Head of Communications, achieved 12th place. These rankings demonstrate that SPAR’s marketing and communications efforts are not only delivering value to consumers and business partners but are also recognised as outstanding achievements within the professional community.
