The MERE market, a prominent Russian chain, is among the emerging players in Belgrade’s supermarket scene. Although the company ventured into the Serbian market in December 2020, I only recently became aware of their presence and was keen to explore what they offer. Intrigued by their reputation for remarkably low prices, I recently decided to explore their concept firsthand by visiting their store in Voždovac. In this article, I will share my initial impressions of MERE and what sets it apart from other supermarket chains in Serbia.
1. Unpopular Locations, Parking Guaranteed
One of the most intriguing aspects of MERE’s approach is their choice of somewhat secluded locations. While these locations may seem “unattractive” at first glance, they significantly reduce operating expenses, allowing MERE to offer lower prices. Additionally, ample parking is guaranteed, eliminating a common headache for shoppers in busy urban areas. The savings at MERE are so significant that even if you don’t have a car, the effort of visiting by bus is well justified.
Current MERE market locations in Belgrade:
- MERE Voždovac, Beranska 18
- MERE Zemun, Mozerova 72
- MERE Ledine, Beračka 38
- MERE Borča, Efeska 1
2. Warehouse-Style Layout, No Unnecessary Expenses
MERE’s supermarkets are essentially warehouses, devoid of fancy layouts, escalators, or extravagant entrances. This no-frills approach helps them minimize costs, which is reflected in their competitive pricing. The focus remains on providing essential goods at affordable prices, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious shoppers.
Despite the minimal investment in presentation, the shopping experience at MERE is surprisingly pleasant. The store is well-maintained, making it easy to navigate and find products. The checkout process is fast, and the staff are friendly and helpful.
3. Bulk Packaging
Another key strategy employed by MERE is bulk packaging. While you won’t find small, individual packets of items, you can purchase larger quantities at significantly lower prices compared to other stores. This approach allows customers to enjoy substantial savings on everyday essentials.
For instance, I purchased 500g of cashew nuts for the price of 100g in other supermarkets. Additionally, you can buy a pack of four toothbrushes for the price of one in other stores. MERE’s bulk offerings extend to items like laundry detergents, dishwashing liquids, soaps, baby diapers, etc. providing customers with great value for their money.
4. Cooperation with Local and Small Businesses
MERE actively collaborates with small, local brands, offering them a platform to showcase their products. This not only supports the growth of these businesses but also provides customers with access to unique and locally sourced products that may not be available in larger supermarkets. The emphasis is on fostering direct relationships with small producers who can offer excellent quality at lower prices.
5. Specific Assortment of Goods
MERE’s product range is thoughtfully curated, emphasizing household cleaning products, everyday cosmetics, sweets, pasta, frozen food, coffee, peanuts, cheese, condiments, basic spices, and even select clothing, household items, and car accessories. While fresh vegetables, fruits, and specialized items may not be part of their inventory, MERE’s selection caters to a broad spectrum of everyday essentials.
Conclusion
My first visit to MERE market exceeded my expectations. Despite my initial concerns about organization and product quality, I found the store to be well-maintained, the shopping experience pleasant, and the prices incredibly affordable. Easy access via Google Maps, convenient parking, and a fast checkout process further enhanced my experience. Obviously, if you’re a tourist in Belgrade, this place is not for you, but if you live in Serbia and want to save money on necessities, you should definitely check it out.
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