With over 1,420 stores in five countries, the Mercator Group is one of the largest retailers in Central and Eastern Europe. Despite their current strong position in the market, the years following the global financial crisis were hard on the European economy, and the retail sector in particular was hit hard.
Toni Balažič, President of Mercator, was brought into the company as part of a team that had the challenge of turning around the retail chain after a number of factors led to less than desirable results. With his background, Toni was well placed to lead the company through a period of change and rejuvenation. Entering university to study economics, Toni got his first professional job at only 19, working in public relations.