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Jumbo Delivers Robust Performance Amid Global Headwinds and Expands Across Europe

Greek retail giant Jumbo has reported a net profit of €117.18 million for the first half of 2025, underscoring the resilience of its business model in a challenging global market. Despite facing persistent supply chain delays, escalating transport costs, inflationary pressures, and tariff disputes, the company continues to post an 8% sales increase compared to the same period last year.

Strong Financials and Strategic Growth

The group’s sales reached €497.28 million with a gross profit margin of 53.86%, a slight decline from 55.27% in the previous year due in part to an increased share of lower-margin wholesale transactions with franchise partners. Meanwhile, Jumbo’s EBITDA stood at €165.36 million, nearly matching the previous period’s performance. Excluding a one-time insurance compensation benefit received in 2024, EBITDA showed a notable growth of 7.05% over last year’s results, with margins maintained above 33%.

Expansion and Market Diversification

Jumbo is strategically positioning itself for continued expansion. With the current operation of 89 stores across Greece, Cyprus, Bulgaria, and Romania, the company has mapped out an aggressive growth trajectory. Plans include the opening of two new hyperstores in Cyprus over the next five years, alongside targeted acquisitions and the development of new retail outlets in Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania. These expansion efforts are expected to bolster the group’s market presence and support sustaining its organic growth rate of 8% annually.

Embracing Digital Transformation and Operational Excellence

Identifying the importance of digital transformation, Jumbo is making systematic investments in enhancing its online store presence across all operating markets while simultaneously upgrading its cybersecurity, artificial intelligence tools, and ERP systems. These initiatives aim to improve customer experience, optimize decision-making processes, and drive operational efficiency. Additionally, a significant investment of over €60 million in two new distribution centers will further underpin the company’s logistical capabilities in the medium term.

Robust Balance Sheet and Shareholder Returns

The retail leader maintains a strong liquidity position, with cash and cash equivalents surpassing its loan and lease liabilities by €309.79 million as of June 30, 2025. This financial stability, supported by a successful share buyback programme, reflects Jumbo’s commitment to delivering dividends and value to its shareholder partners, even as it navigates a complex international environment.

As the Christmas trading period approaches, all eyes will be on Jumbo’s performance, which is expected to serve as a key indicator of whether the group can sustain its positive momentum in the coming months. With measured expansion and continued investments in both physical and digital capabilities, Jumbo sets a strong example of strategic resilience in today’s volatile retail landscape.

Bank Of Cyprus Launches Cybersecurity Programme For Students In Limassol

Bank of Cyprus launched a cybersecurity initiative in Limassol as part of its “The Young Ask and Provide Solutions” programme, involving students in simulated cyberattack scenarios. The programme focuses on practical training in cyber defense and awareness of risks linked to digital infrastructure.

Innovative Collaboration And Real-World Challenges

In partnership with the Education Ministry and non-profit organization TechIsland, the programme provided a robust platform for young minds to confront realistic cyberattack simulations. Held at the modern Limassol regional offices of the Bank of Cyprus, the interactive space enabled 60 secondary school students from across the region to collaboratively tackle the complex threats facing national digital infrastructure.

Practical Exercises And Strategic Insights

Participants took part in workshops built around cyberattack scenarios. Tasks included identifying prevention strategies, planning response measures, and proposing public awareness approaches. The exercises focused on coordination and decision-making during cyber incidents.

Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders

According to Elli Ioannidou, the programme is designed to combine theoretical knowledge with practical experience. She said the initiative aims to help students understand real-world challenges and develop problem-solving skills. Additional input was provided by Marios Stavrou, who noted that managing cyber incidents requires coordination across multiple teams and functions.

Building A Resilient Cyber Ecosystem

Experts, including Mathaios Panteli and Tanya Romanyukha highlighted the importance of early digital skills and cybersecurity awareness. Their comments focused on preparing the future workforce skills needed for managing digital risks. The programme forms part of broader efforts to strengthen cybersecurity awareness and education in Cyprus.

The Bank of Cyprus remains committed to investing in forward-thinking initiatives that inspire youth and enhance community awareness. Through these targeted efforts, the bank is not only addressing immediate security challenges but also contributing to a future where advanced technology and robust cyber defense mechanisms coexist seamlessly.

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