Primus Rewe Group
A key strength of PRIMUS is its advanced logistics network. The group has invested heavily in automated high-bay warehouses and "green" logistics centers (using solar power and electric forklifts) across Austria and Poland. This ensures that fresh produce from local CEE farmers reaches BILLA and PENNY shelves within 24 hours—a major competitive advantage over international rivals.
Primus hasn't grown organically; it has aggressively acquired traditional German food producers to expand its empire. Notable acquisitions include:
As the lines blur between retailer, manufacturer, and logistics provider, Primus serves as a case study for the future of grocery. They are no longer just supplying REWE; they are defining what REWE is.
Expect to see free-standing Primus units in city centers, not just transit corridors. These "micro-hubs" will serve as pickup points for Rewe's online grocery orders while offering a café experience. primus rewe group
In essence, —proving that a German retail giant can successfully export its quality standards while respecting the distinct tastes and traditions of Central and Eastern Europe.
is the production and logistics arm. Founded in 1994, Primus operates as a central "producer group" for the REWE universe. Instead of REWE buying products from third-party manufacturers, Primus makes them.
By utilizing a mix of instructional videos and interactive content, employees can engage with learning materials in a flexible manner, often supported by mobile access to company platforms. A key strength of PRIMUS is its advanced logistics network
: Standardising procurement across thousands of stores reduces overhead.
Pallet configurations, case dimensions, stackability codes, and temperature requirements (e.g., fresh vs. frozen).
However, the year was not without its pressures. While revenue surged, profitability faced headwinds. EBITA fell to €1.53 billion in 2025, down from just under €2 billion in 2024, while net profit dropped from €1 billion to approximately €525 million. This decline was not a sign of failure but a strategic choice. REWE Group CFO Telerik Schischmanow explained that the "temporarily subdued earnings development" was fully expected due to "targeted investment in future viability," including the planned launch of a customer loyalty program and ongoing investments totaling €2.5 billion in 2025. This "invest-to-grow" strategy highlights the group's long-term vision over short-term gains. Expect to see free-standing Primus units in city
Through standardized Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) interfaces linked to Primus, onboarding new suppliers—especially small, local, and regional eco-farmers—is streamlined.
Beyond software, "Primus" is frequently used internally within REWE Group to denote flagship projects and gold-standard logistics centers. REWE’s supply chain relies on a hub-and-spoke model, where ultra-modern, highly automated logistics centers dictate the efficiency of the entire cooperative.