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50 Years of Hofer: Going Digital for the Anniversary!

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Hof branch digitization

Let’s Get Digital for the Anniversary!

At DMS, we don’t just write about today’s hottest topics — we also spotlight the innovations from the past that continue to inspire us. Why? Because many of them paved the way for what’s happening in retail right now. One story that truly wowed us: HOFER’s 50th anniversary — celebrated with digital innovation.

A Great Idea – We’re Sure of It.

At the time of its 50th birthday, HOFER had nearly 480 stores in Austria and a team of more than 11,000 motivated employees. HOFER is one of Austria’s most successful grocery retailers. Headquartered in Sattledt, the company stands by its slogan: “Da bin ich mir sicher.” (“I’m sure of it.”) — promising top quality at HOFER’s unbeatable prices.

And for its anniversary? HOFER launched a Digital Innovation Center — and that alone is worth celebrating. In partnership with other organizations, the new center is focused on developing forward-thinking digital concepts.

Innovation, Made in Eberstalzell.

So, where is this Innovation Center located? In Eberstalzell, Upper Austria. The future is now!

Together with the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria and the State of Upper Austria, HOFER launched a future-focused initiative tailored specifically for retail.

“In Eberstalzell, we are creating one of the most modern workspaces in Austria. The HOFER site will become a hub for education, research, and collaboration.
The university provides critical input for training the retail employees of tomorrow. Partner companies and startups — alongside HOFER — will have the space and support they need to develop future-proof, project-based solutions.”
Günther Helm, then CEO of HOFER, on the new Innovation Center

Key themes driving the project: personalized interaction, omnichannel communication, automation, resource sharing, and networked collaboration.

Our Conclusion: When a highly successful retail brand like HOFER invests in digital innovation, it’s a clear sign of even smarter, more future-ready retail. And that’s something we’re sure of.