Commerce & Services Bulgaria

In Bulgaria, there are numerous supermarkets and hypermarkets, both international and local chains, offering a wide range of goods and services for the population.

 

Kaufland: A German hypermarket chain, one of the largest in Bulgaria.

 

Lidl: A German discount chain offering goods at affordable prices.

 

BILLA: An Austrian supermarket chain present in Bulgaria since 2000.

 

METRO: A German wholesale hypermarket chain targeting business clients.

 

T Market: A Lithuanian supermarket chain operating in Bulgaria since 2005.

 

Fantastico: A Bulgarian family-owned supermarket chain founded in 1991.

 

CBA: A Bulgarian supermarket chain established in 2003.

 

Carrefour: A French hypermarket chain that returned to the Bulgarian market in 2024.

Online shopping is rapidly developing in Bulgaria, offering consumers a wide selection of goods and services. Below are the largest and most popular online stores operating in the Bulgarian market:

 

 

 

eMAG.bg: One of the leading online retailers in Bulgaria; offers a wide range of electronics, home appliances, clothing, cosmetics, and home goods.

 

 

 

AliExpress.com: An international trading platform popular among Bulgarian consumers for its low prices and product variety.

 

 

 

Ozone.bg: A local online store specializing in the sale of books, electronics, toys, video games, and hobby products.

 

 

 

Technopolis.bg: Offers a wide selection of home appliances, electronics, and gadgets.

 

 

 

Technomarket.bg: One of the largest electronics retailers in Bulgaria with a vast assortment of home and office goods.

 

 

 

FashionDays.bg: An online store for fashion clothing, shoes, and accessories from well-known brands for men, women, and children.

 

 

 

RemixShop.com: A platform for buying and selling branded second-hand and outlet clothing.

 

 

 

eBay.com: An international trading platform popular among Bulgarian users for purchasing various items, including electronics, fashion, and collectibles.

 

 

 

Store.bg: A Bulgarian online store with a wide range of books, toys, stationery, and home goods.

Bulgarian Post: The country's main postal operator with an extensive network of over 2,900 post offices covering both urban and rural areas.

 

Services

 

Postal deliveries: Acceptance and delivery of letters, postcards, parcels, and packages.

 

Financial services: Money transfers, bill payments, and credit provision.

 

Commercial services: Sale of newspapers, magazines, postage stamps, and other goods.

 

Customs services: Processing customs declarations and presenting shipments for inspection.

 

Tracking services: All international and domestic registered shipments receive a tracking number to monitor their status on the official website.

 

Private courier services

 

DHL, UPS, FedEx: International companies providing express delivery of documents and packages with tracking and additional services.

 

Speedy, Econt: Local courier companies offering fast delivery throughout Bulgaria, including cash on delivery and door-to-door services.

 

Features of postal services in Bulgaria

 

Delivery times: Domestic shipments are typically delivered within 1-2 business days. International shipments may take several days to several weeks, depending on the destination country and delivery method.

 

Postal codes: Bulgaria uses four-digit postal codes. Correct postal code specification speeds up processing and delivery of correspondence.

 

Working hours: Most post offices operate Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Some offices are open on Saturdays but with reduced hours.

Main telecommunications companies

 

 

 

A1 Bulgaria: The largest operator offering mobile and fixed communication, internet, and television.

 

Services: Mobile communication (2G, 3G, 4G, 5G), fixed internet (fiber optic and DSL), IPTV.

 

 

 

Vivacom: A leading operator providing a full range of telecommunication services.

 

Services: Mobile communication, fixed internet, digital and satellite television, fixed telephony.

 

 

 

Bulsatcom: The main provider of satellite TV and internet services.

 

Services: Satellite and IPTV, fixed internet, mobile communication.

 

 

 

Cooolbox: A local operator specializing in fiber-optic internet and digital television.

 

Services: FTTH internet, IPTV, fixed telephony.

 

 

 

 

 

Features of Service Provision

 

Package Offers: Many operators offer combined service packages (internet, television, telephony) with favorable conditions and discounts.

 

Contracts: The standard contract term is 12 or 24 months. Early termination may result in penalties.

 

Equipment: Operators provide the necessary equipment (routers, TV set-top boxes) for rent or for free during the contract period.

 

Coverage: In large cities, fiber-optic internet with high speeds is available. In rural areas, DSL or satellite technologies may be used.

 

 

 

Rates: Prices vary depending on the internet speed, the number of TV channels, and additional services. It is recommended to compare offers from different operators to choose the best option.

Food Delivery

 

 

 

Glovo: An international platform; provides food delivery from restaurants, groceries from supermarkets, and pharmacy items.

 

Coverage: Available in major cities, including Sofia, Varna, Plovdiv, and Burgas.

 

 

Takeaway.com: An online platform that unites numerous restaurants for home food orders.

 

Coverage: Operates in major cities in Bulgaria.

 

 

 

Foodpanda: An international food delivery service partnering with local restaurants.

 

Coverage: Available in the main cities of the country.

 

 

 

 

 

Goods Delivery

 

 

 

Econt: A Bulgarian courier service providing parcel and freight delivery services.

 

Coverage: Wide network of offices and pick-up points throughout the country.

 

 

 

Speedy: A courier company offering delivery services for individuals and businesses.

 

Coverage: Offices and pick-up points in various regions of Bulgaria.

 

 

 

CDEK: An international logistics company providing parcel and goods delivery services.

 

Coverage: Operates in Bulgaria, offering delivery both domestically and internationally.

 

 

 

Specialized Services

 

 

 

Happy Delivery: Delivery service from the Happy restaurant chain, offering menu items to your home.

 

Coverage: Available in the cities where the chain's restaurants are present.

 

 

 

Sunrise Food: A delivery restaurant for Asian food specializing in sushi and rolls.

 

Coverage: Plovdiv, Burgas, Sunny Beach, and Sveti Vlas.

In Bulgaria, the working hours of stores and services can vary depending on the type of establishment, its location, and the season. However, there are general trends that can help navigate the operating hours of various institutions.

 

Shopping Centers and Large Stores

 

Work Schedule: Typically open from Monday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM. In the summer, some stores may stay open longer, and some operate 24/7.

 

Small Shops and Boutiques

 

Work Schedule: Often operating Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM. Saturday is a shortened workday.

 

Markets

 

Work Schedule: Generally open from morning until 4:00 PM. Markets exist in both small towns and metropolitan areas.

 

Restaurants and Cafes

 

Work Schedule: Often open until midnight, with some open until 4:00 AM, especially in tourist zones.

 

Supermarkets

 

Work Schedule: Many are open daily until 10:00 PM, with some grocery stores operating 24/7.

 

Banks

 

Work Schedule: Usually open Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Some branches may be open on Saturday until noon.

 

Post Offices

 

Work Schedule: Typically operate Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Some branches are open on Saturday with reduced hours.

 

Pharmacies

 

Work Schedule: Most pharmacies operate Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and on Saturday, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. In major cities, there are 24-hour pharmacies.

 

Note that in tourist zones and large cities, the work schedule can be more flexible, especially in the summer season. It's recommended to check the specific establishment's hours in advance to avoid inconvenience.

Local brands

 

Fashion and Accessories

 

Denyl: A Bulgarian manufacturer of women's clothing known for quality materials and modern design.

 

Capasca: A local brand offering stylish men's and women's clothing with a focus on minimalism.

 

Cosmetics

 

Biofresh: A company specializing in natural cosmetics using rose oil produced in Bulgaria.

 

Refan: A brand known for its perfumes and cosmetic products based on natural ingredients.

 

Food and Beverages

 

Kamenitza: One of the oldest beer brands in Bulgaria, founded in 1881.

 

Devin: A popular brand of mineral water sourced from the Rhodope mountains.

 

 

 

International brands

 

Fashion and Accessories

 

Zara: A Spanish clothing brand represented in major shopping malls in Bulgaria.

 

H&M: A Swedish clothing store chain offering a wide range for all ages.

 

Cosmetics

 

Sephora: A French cosmetics store chain offering products from world brands.

 

The Body Shop: A British brand of natural cosmetics represented in major cities.

 

Food and Beverages: Coca-Cola, Nestlé.

 

Bulgaria combines a rich variety of local producers with the presence of international brands, providing consumers with a wide selection of goods and services.

Bulgaria is a country with a rich history and cultural traditions that are reflected in everyday life, including the trade and service sector. Knowing local customs and norms will help you feel confident and comfortable when shopping.

 

 

 

When entering small stores or shops, it is customary to greet the seller. Although many speak English in tourist areas, knowing basic phrases in Bulgarian will be seen positively.

 

Respect the queue and personal space of other shoppers. In boutiques and clothing stores, ask for permission to use the fitting room. Salespeople are usually ready to help but won't be intrusive. If you need help, don't hesitate to ask.

 

 

 

Bargaining is common in markets and with street vendors. It's part of the culture and can be a pleasant experience. At food markets, you're often offered to taste fruits, cheeses, or other products before buying. Cash is preferred in markets. Have small bills and coins on hand.

 

 

 

Bulgarian Lev (BGN) is the official currency. Euros are rarely accepted, so exchange money in advance. In large stores, malls, and restaurants, bank cards (Visa, MasterCard) are accepted. In small establishments, it's better to check for the possibility of cashless payment. In restaurants and cafes, it is customary to leave a tip of 10% of the bill if service is not included.

 

 

 

During national holidays, many stores and establishments may be closed or have reduced hours. In religious places, dress modestly. When visiting markets and local establishments, comfortable clothing will be appropriate. Stores may charge for plastic bags. It is recommended to have a reusable bag.

 

 

 

Prices in tourist areas may be higher. Compare prices in different places. Use official exchange points or banks. Avoid exchanging money on the street.

 

 

 

Respect local traditions and customs. Showing interest in Bulgarian culture will be appreciated. Be careful with non-verbal communication. For example, nodding in Bulgaria means "no," and shaking means "yes."

 

 

 

Friendliness, respect for local traditions, and a willingness to adapt will help establish good relationships with vendors and locals. Enjoy the process and discover Bulgaria's rich culture through its trading traditions.

Main sales seasons

 

 

 

Winter sales: from mid-January to the end of February.

 

After the New Year holidays, stores reduce prices on winter collections of clothing, shoes, and accessories to make room for spring arrivals.

 

 

 

Summer sales: from mid-July to the end of August.

 

At this time, discounts on summer goods, including clothing, shoes, and beach accessories, are offered before the autumn season begins.

 

 

 

Additional Discount Periods

 

 

 

Inter-seasonal Sales: April and October.

 

Stores offer discounts on previous season's goods, preparing for new collections.

 

 

 

Black Friday: The last Friday of November.

 

Many stores participate in the global "Black Friday" event, offering significant discounts on a wide range of products.

 

 

 

Pre-New Year Sales: December.

 

In anticipation of the holidays, stores offer promotions and discounts on gift items, electronics, and other popular categories.

 

 

 

Features

 

Discounts in Shopping Malls: Major shopping centers, such as Mall of Sofia and Paradise Center in Sofia, regularly hold promotions and sales during the specified periods.

 

Online Sales: Many Bulgarian online stores also participate in seasonal sales, offering discounts and special offers.

In Bulgaria, the waste disposal and recycling system is developing in accordance with European standards, but it faces several challenges.

 

Waste Collection and Sorting

 

Separate Collection: Containers for separate waste collection are installed in cities:

 

Blue — paper and cardboard.

 

Yellow — plastic and metal.

 

Green — glass.

 

Brown — organic waste.

 

Collection Points: There are specialized points for collecting hazardous waste, such as batteries, electronics, and chemicals.

 

Problems and Prospects

 

Low Recycling Rate: Bulgaria lags behind the EU average in waste recycling, necessitating intensified measures for separate collection and recycling.

 

Investments in Incineration: Increasing investments in waste incineration plants draws criticism due to environmental risks and hindering the development of recycling.

 

Need for Reform: Measures are required to raise public awareness, improve separate collection infrastructure, and encourage recycling.

 

Overall, the waste disposal and recycling system in Bulgaria is in the development stage, aiming to meet European standards and minimize negative environmental impacts.