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Jumbo Retail Reports Robust Sales Growth and Strategic Expansion Amid Global Market Challenges

Strong Performance Across Key Markets

Greek retailer Jumbo has achieved an 8 percent year-over-year increase in sales for the January–August 2025 period, underscoring its resilient market position despite prevailing inflationary pressures, increased VAT in Romania, and global economic uncertainty. In Greece, the parent company reported a 7 percent rise in net sales in August, with a 9 percent gain over the first eight months of the year. Cyprus experienced a robust 12 percent jump in August, translating to an approximate 9 percent year-to-date growth. Meanwhile, Romania’s combined online and offline sales grew by 8 percent in August and 7 percent in the period, and Bulgaria saw August sales up by 7 percent, though year-to-date growth was a modest 3 percent, reflecting a deceleration compared to the previous year.

Operational Efficiency and Asset Acquisition

In addition to its encouraging sales performance, Jumbo has made significant strides in improving its operating efficiency. The group has strategically acquired several leased properties, investing approximately €39 million between 2021 and 2024 to purchase five outlets in Greece and Romania. This year alone, Jumbo has completed acquisitions for two additional leased stores in Greece and is finalizing transactions for two more locations in Patras and Athens. These investments are set to propel the company into owning roughly 70 percent of its 89 retail outlets across Greece, Cyprus, Bulgaria, and Romania, positioning the firm to better control its asset base and operational costs.

Focus on Romania for Future Growth

Romania remains a focal point of Jumbo’s expansion strategy. The retailer currently operates 20 stores in the country, complemented by an expanding online platform. With plans to double its network in Romania over the next eight years, the company has already inked an agreement for a new store in Baia Mare, signaling its commitment to tapping into the region’s growth potential.

Outlook for the Full Year

The latest performance metrics bolster management’s full-year outlook, with projected group sales growth of approximately 4 percent and profitability levels expected to remain on par with 2024. Jumbo’s balanced strategy of leveraging strong regional performance and pursuing asset optimization initiatives exemplifies its capacity to navigate complex market conditions while preparing for sustainable long-term growth.

LinkedIn Introduces Advanced AI-Powered People Search

Over the past two years, LinkedIn has steadily integrated artificial intelligence into its platform, enhancing everything from ad copies and personalized content to hiring assistance and job-hunting strategies. The latest innovation focuses on improving one of its most critical features: search. Following the successful rollout of a job search tool for U.S. members earlier this year, LinkedIn is now extending natural language search capabilities to people search.

Streamlined Queries For Targeted Connections

Utilizing natural language queries, users can perform searches such as, “Find me investors in the healthcare sector with FDA experience,” or, “People who co-founded a productivity company and are based in NYC.” This new system simplifies the process that once required precise titles or cumbersome filtering, ensuring a more intuitive and effective way to locate key professional contacts.

Enhancing Professional Networking

During early testing, LinkedIn observed that professionals leveraged the AI-powered tool not only to explore new job opportunities but also to foster business growth and career advancement. As Rohan Rajiv, Senior Director of Product Management at LinkedIn, explained, this upgrade transforms conventional search methodologies by delivering rapid, contextually relevant results that traditional keyword searches often missed.

Industry Trends And Competitive Dynamics

The move comes at a time when AI-enhanced search functionalities are becoming ubiquitous across the digital landscape. Platforms ranging from Google and Bing to startups like Happenstance AI and Clado are racing to deliver more intelligent and responsive search solutions. LinkedIn’s innovation not only reinforces its position as a leader in professional networking but also highlights the transformative impact of AI on everyday digital interactions.

Looking Ahead

Currently available to premium users in the U.S., the AI-powered people search tool will soon expand globally. Future updates are anticipated to refine the tool’s query understanding, ensuring even greater accuracy and relevance. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, LinkedIn’s commitment to integrating advanced AI capabilities underlines its dedication to providing professionals with the tools they need to connect, collaborate, and thrive in an increasingly competitive environment.

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