Commerce & Services Czech Republic

In the Czech Republic, there are numerous supermarkets and hypermarkets that provide a wide range of goods and services for residents and visitors of the country.

 

Albert: One of the largest supermarket chains in the Czech Republic; includes more than 330 stores across the country; offers a wide assortment of food and household goods.

 

Tesco: A British chain with more than 200 stores in various formats, including hypermarkets, supermarkets, and convenience stores; a wide range of food, clothing, electronics, and household goods.

 

Kaufland: Over 120 stores in the Czech Republic; large retail spaces with a wide assortment of goods; own meat and bakery productions.

 

Lidl: The chain has more than 250 stores across the country; regular themed weeks with products from different countries; own brands and a limited assortment to maintain low prices.

 

Billa: About 250 stores in the Czech Republic; focus on fresh products and local goods.

 

Penny Market: Over 380 stores in the Czech Republic; low prices and limited assortment; own brands and regular promotions.

 

Globus: Represented in the Czech Republic by 15 stores; large retail spaces with a wide assortment of goods; own bakeries, meat shops, and in-store restaurants.

 

COOP: A cooperative store network focused on local communities, with more than 2,500 stores across the Czech Republic; focus on local products and support for regional producers.

 

Makro: A wholesale hypermarket chain designed for businesses, with 13 stores in the Czech Republic; wide range of products for restaurants, hotels, and other enterprises.

 

Mix-Markt: A supermarket chain specializing in products from the CIS countries, the Baltics, Poland, Romania, and the Balkan region, with several stores in the Czech Republic.

There are many online stores in the Czech Republic offering a wide range of goods and services. Below are the largest among them:

Alza.cz: The largest online store in the Czech Republic; specializes in electronics, home appliances, toys, cosmetics, and other goods.

Mall.cz: One of the leading online retailers in the Czech Republic; offers products in categories such as electronics, clothing, cosmetics, and home goods.

Heureka.cz: The largest online store aggregator in the Czech Republic; allows price and product characteristic comparison from various online stores; covers more than 55,000 online stores and helps users find the best deals.

CZC.cz: Focuses on selling computer equipment, electronics, and accessories.

Notino.cz: The largest online store for perfumes and cosmetics in the Czech Republic; offers products from global brands.

Rohlik.cz: An online supermarket specializing in the delivery of groceries and household goods.

Bonami.cz: Specializes in the sale of furniture, decor, and home goods.

Postal services in the Czech Republic are mainly provided by the state company Česká pošta, which offers a wide range of services for residents and guests of the country:

- Mailing and parcels: The company offers delivery of correspondence and parcels both within the country and abroad (standard and express delivery). An additional service, Post Boxes, allows receiving correspondence directly at the post office without indicating a home address. Letters are stored at the branch for 15 days.

- Financial services: Utility bills, taxes, and other payments can be paid at the post office. Money transfer services are also provided.

- Courier services: For urgent delivery of documents and parcels, courier services with the option to track shipments are available.

Post offices usually operate from Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, and on Saturdays from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm. However, opening hours may vary depending on the specific branch.

In the Czech Republic, in addition to the state postal service, several international and local courier companies operate. 

International courier services

DHL Express: An international company offering express delivery of documents and cargo worldwide.

UPS: An American courier service providing document and parcel delivery services within and outside the Czech Republic.

FedEx: A large international company specializing in express delivery of documents and cargo.

GLS: A European courier company offering reliable and fast parcel delivery within the Czech Republic and other European countries. 

DPD: An international delivery service providing parcel and cargo delivery services both within the Czech Republic and beyond. 

Local Courier Services

Messenger: A Czech company specializing in express delivery of documents and parcels across Prague and other cities in the Czech Republic; offers urgent delivery services within a few hours as well as evening delivery. 

PPL: A Czech courier service; provides parcel and cargo delivery services throughout the country. 

In the Czech Republic, telecommunication services, including television, internet, and telephone services, are provided by both large international and local companies. A competitive market ensures a variety of offers and price categories for consumers.

Main Telecom Companies

O2 Czech Republic: The largest operator offering mobile and fixed communications, internet, and television. The company provides a wide range of tariff plans and services for both private and corporate clients. 

T-Mobile Czech Republic: An international company providing mobile communication, internet, and television. Known for its innovative offerings and high-quality customer service. 

Vodafone Czech Republic: One of the leading mobile communication operators, also offering internet services and television. The company is actively developing 5G networks and provides competitive tariffs. 

 

Television Services

Terrestrial Television: Free digital television available via antenna.

Cable Television: Provided by companies like UPC and O2, offering a wide selection of channels and additional services.

IPTV: Internet television offered by operators such as O2 and T-Mobile, with the ability to watch recorded programs and access video libraries. 

 

Internet Services

ADSL/VDSL: Broadband access through telephone lines offered by operators O2 and T-Mobile.

Fiber Optic Internet: High-speed access provided by companies like CETIN and Vodafone. 

Mobile Internet: 3G, 4G, and 5G networks offered by all major operators provide internet access through mobile devices and modems.

 

Telephone Communication

Mobile communication in the Czech Republic is characterized by high coverage and quality services. The main operators offer various tariff plans, including prepaid and postpaid options, with different packages of minutes, messages, and data. 

 

Market Features

Competition: A high level of competition among operators contributes to improving the quality of services and reducing prices.

Package Offers: Many companies offer combined service packages (internet, television, phone) with favorable conditions.

Technological Innovations: Operators are actively implementing new technologies such as 5G and fiber optic networks to enhance the quality and speed of services.

Food Delivery

Dáme jídlo: The largest food delivery platform in the Czech Republic, collaborating with over 3,000 restaurants in 170 cities across the country; users can order dishes from various cuisines through the website or mobile app. 

Wolt: An international service represented in the Czech Republic, offering food delivery from numerous restaurants; the app allows real-time order tracking and provides delivery time information. 

Bolt Food: A food delivery service from Bolt, known for its taxi services; operating in Prague since April 2020, offering delivery from various restaurants with the option to track orders through the app. 

Grocery Delivery

Rohlik.cz: An online supermarket specializing in the delivery of groceries and household goods; offers a wide range of fresh products with the possibility of delivery within a few hours. 

Košík.cz: A grocery delivery service available in various cities in the Czech Republic; collaborates with local producers and major supermarkets, offering a variety of products and convenient delivery terms. 

Tesco Online Shopping: The British supermarket chain offers an online shopping service with home delivery.

Product Delivery

Alza.cz: The largest online store in the Czech Republic, specializing in electronics, household appliances, and other goods; offers fast delivery and convenient pick-up points.

Mall.cz: One of the leading online retailers, offering a wide range of products, including electronics, clothing, cosmetics, and home goods; provides various delivery options and convenient return conditions.

Heureka.cz: The largest aggregator of online stores in the Czech Republic, allowing price and product comparison from different online shops; helps users find the best deals and provides customer reviews.

In the Czech Republic, the operating hours of stores and services can vary depending on their type, location, and the day of the week. Below is general information on the operating hours of various establishments:

Small stores: In small towns and villages, most stores are open from Monday to Friday from 8:00 or 9:00 to 18:00, and on Saturdays until 12:00. Some may close for lunch breaks from 12:00 to 13:00. These stores usually do not operate on Sundays.

Shopping centers and supermarkets: In larger cities, shopping centers and supermarkets usually have longer hours. They are open from Monday to Sunday from 9:00 to 21:00 or even until 22:00. Some supermarkets may be open 24/7.

"Večerka" (evening stores): These are small grocery stores, often run by Vietnamese entrepreneurs, operating from 7:00 to 22:00 with no days off, providing convenience for late-night shopping.

Banks: Bank branches usually operate from Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 17:00. In some cases, they may be open until 19:00. The working hours can vary depending on the specific branch.

Post offices: Czech Post typically operates from Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 18:00, and on Saturdays until 12:00. However, the schedule can vary depending on the specific branch.

Restaurants and cafes: Most dining establishments are open from 11:00 to 23:00 or 24:00. In city centers, some restaurants and bars may operate until early morning.

Museums and attractions: Generally, museums and tourist sites are open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00. However, some may have specific schedule features, so it's recommended to check operating hours in advance.

Public transport: The Prague metro operates from 5:00 to 24:00. Trams and buses run even at night, from 0:30 to 4:30, on a separate schedule.

Note that on public holidays, operating hours may change, and some stores and services may be closed. It's recommended to check the schedule of the institutions you are interested in advance.

Local Czech brands

Škoda Auto: Founded in 1895, Škoda is one of the oldest and most well-known automobile brands in the world. The company produces a wide range of vehicles exported to more than 100 countries.

Baťa: An international footwear company founded in 1894 in the town of Zlin. Baťa is known for its quality shoes and has stores worldwide.

Pilsner Urquell: The world's first beer brand to start producing pale lager in 1842 in the city of Pilsen. Pilsner Urquell has become a benchmark for many breweries.

Kofola: A popular non-alcoholic drink created in the 1960s as an alternative to Western colas. Kofola remains widely popular in the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

Alpine Pro: A Czech brand specializing in the production of sports and outdoor clothing. The company is the official supplier of gear for the Czech Olympic team.

Tonak: One of the oldest hat manufacturers in the world, founded in 1799. Tonak is known for its quality hats and berets.

Moser: A prestigious glass manufactory founded in 1857 in Karlovy Vary. Moser produces high-quality crystal products known worldwide.

International brands in the Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is an attractive market for many international companies. The country features well-known brands, such as:

IKEA: The Swedish furniture company operates several stores in major cities in the Czech Republic.

H&M: A Swedish clothing retailer represented in most shopping malls across the country.

Zara: A Spanish fashion brand popular among Czech consumers.

McDonald's: An American fast-food restaurant chain with numerous branches throughout the country.

Starbucks: An international coffeehouse chain present in major cities of the Czech Republic.

Lidl: A German supermarket chain widely spread across the country.

Decathlon: A French chain of sports goods stores offering a wide range of products.

These and many other international brands successfully operate in the Czech market, offering consumers a variety of goods and services.

The Czech Republic is a country with a rich culture and traditions, which are reflected in everyday life, including shopping and interactions in the service sector. Understanding local etiquette will help you feel more comfortable and leave a pleasant impression on the locals.

Payment and Currency

Currency: The official currency is the Czech koruna (CZK). Euro is accepted in some tourist areas, but the exchange rate may not be favorable.

Card Payment: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities. However, in smaller shops and markets, it's better to have cash on hand.

ATMs: ATMs are widespread and available in most populated areas.

Language of Communication

Czech Language: The official language of the country. In tourist zones, many speak English.

Politeness: Try to learn a few basic phrases in Czech — locals will appreciate your effort.

Etiquette in Shops and Services

Greeting: It is customary to greet the shopkeeper when entering small stores.

Queues: Observe order and respect the personal space of other customers.

Request for Assistance: Salespeople are usually unobtrusive. If you need help, approach them yourself.

Fitting: In clothing stores, ask for permission before trying on clothes.

Customer Service

Service Style: Local salespeople may seem reserved; this is a normal part of the culture.

Complaints and Returns: If you have complaints, present them calmly and politely.

Traditions and Customs

Bargaining: Prices are fixed in most stores. Bargaining can happen in markets or with private sellers.

Gifts: If you are invited as a guest, it's customary to bring a small gift — flowers, chocolate, or a bottle of wine.

Environmental Aspects

Bags: In supermarkets, plastic bags are charged. It is recommended to use reusable bags.

Waste Sorting: Czechs take recycling seriously. Follow local waste sorting rules.

VAT and Tax Free Returns

VAT: The standard rate is 21%.

Tax Free: Foreign citizens from non-EU countries can refund VAT on purchases over 2001 CZK. Request a Tax-Free form at the store and present the purchases at customs when leaving.

Tipping

Restaurants and Cafes: It is customary to tip 5–10% of the bill amount.

Taxis: Rounding up the fare is appropriate.

Guides and Tour Guides: Tipping is welcomed but not obligatory.

Useful Tips

Cultural Norms: Respect local traditions and customs, avoid loud behavior in public places.

Safety: The Czech Republic is considered a safe country, but remain vigilant in tourist crowded areas.

Winter Sales

Timing: Winter sales traditionally start right after Catholic Christmas, that is, in late December, and continue until the end of February.

Discount Rates: Discounts usually start at 30% and can reach 70% by the end of the sale season.

Summer Sales

Timing: Summer sales kick off in late June and continue until the end of August.

Discount Rates: Discounts start at 30% and can reach 70% or more by the season's end.

Additional Sales

Black Friday: In recent years, the tradition of holding sales in late November, known as "Black Friday," has gained popularity in the Czech Republic. During this period, many stores offer significant discounts on various product categories.

Mid-Season Sales: Some stores hold additional sales between the main seasons, offering discounts on remaining stock.

Collection and sorting of waste

Waste sorting is an integral part of everyday life for Czechs. The country has containers of different colors designed for different types of waste:

- Yellow containers: for plastic and PET bottles.

- Blue containers: for paper and cardboard.

- Green containers: for glass.

- Brown containers: for bio-waste.

- Black containers: for mixed waste that is not recyclable.

According to data, 75% of the Czech population regularly sorts waste, indicating a high level of environmental awareness among citizens.

Recycling and disposal

Sorted waste is sent to recycling plants where new materials and products are produced from it. For example, PET bottles are recycled into new plastic products, and paper into recycled paper products.

Mixed waste, which is not recyclable, is sent to incineration plants or landfills. However, the Czech Republic aims to reduce the volume of waste sent to landfills and increase the proportion of recycling.

Legislative initiatives

Introduction of a deposit system: The Czech Ministry of Environment has proposed introducing a deposit of 4 Czech crowns for PET bottles and tin cans to encourage their return and recycling.

Mandatory textile sorting: From 2025, mandatory sorting of textile waste is planned to be introduced, which will reduce landfill volumes and increase the recycling of textile materials.

Fines

In the Czech Republic, fines are provided for non-compliance with waste sorting rules. According to legislation, individuals can be fined from 20,000 to 1,000,000 Czech crowns for improper waste handling, including failure to sort.

For legal entities and individual entrepreneurs, fines are significantly higher and can reach up to 50 million crowns.