More Than 110 Years of Development and Experience

Merkur celebrates a jubilee in 2006: the 110^th anniversary of its founding. Peter Majdič, a trader and an industrialist, established a small shop in 1896, and since then Merkur has grown into a successful European trading organisation.

In 1933 Merkur patented its trademark Merkur-prima kvaliteta (Merkur – superb quality) under which the company used to sell quality tools, installation and construction materials, and household products. The trademark patented so long ago is still imprinted in the company’s mission.

Times of Transition

Merkur is the only Slovene dealer in technical goods for domestic and industrial applications which has successfully undergone all social and economic changes. It survived the turbulent pre- and post-war times. After WWII, Merkur employed approximately 20 people and successfully merged with similar small local trading organisations. By the late 1970s, it employed 500 staff and was specialised for wholesale, retail and export. The modern company has kept all three functions to this day.

A Publicly Traded Copmany

After 1980, Merkur started expanding its sales network, warehousing and logistic facilities in Slovenia. After the disintegration of the uniform Yugoslav market, Merkur developed its sales network, established subsidiaries abroad, and linked closely with industry and construction to keep the leading position on the Slovene market. Merkur managed to win grounds on the markets of former Yugoslav republics over its much larger and better-known competitors, especially thanks to constant modernisation of its sales network, introduction of new products and permanent staff training. After 1990, the company underwent transformation into a public company limited by shares, and its shares were floated at the Ljubljana Stock Exchange in 1998.

Employees

The development of Merkur and the Group would not be possible without its loyal and dedicated employees. The company managed to succeed also thanks to their professional training and experience. Especially deserving for good performance of the company were Jaka Kolenc, who managed Merkur in the period from 1946 until 1977, and Jakob Piskernik, who managed the company from 1977 until 1999. Both managed the company successfully, pursued its vision, and drew the guidelines for further development.            

Merkur in the 21^st Century

Merkur has recently successfully strengthened its marketing share in Slovenia and in the area of South-Eastern Europe. The company has remodelled its sales centres, extended its warehousing capacities, and built processing plants to attend to the industrial customers.

For decades, Merkur and its subsidiaries have been distinguished for their permanent business success, public renown, stability, capital value, and trustworthiness of the Merkur trademark. The tradition and long history of the company have become Merkur’s basic values. The company has been able to compete successfully and thrive thanks to permanent learning, flexible adaptation, and the ability to meet the demands of consumers and business partners. Past success has energised and supported the future development, and provided a valuable source of ideas.