La Doi Pași Retail Chain

La Doi Pași is a well-known proximity retail network in Romania, established to support independent local entrepreneurs. The brand functions as a franchise model, allowing small shop owners to operate under a unified, professional brand identity while maintaining their independence. This strategy was developed to compete with the growing expansion of international supermarket chains by offering a localized, community-focused shopping experience.

The brand's origin is tied to METRO AG's strategic shift toward supporting the wholesale and traditional trade sector in Eastern Europe. Since its launch in 2012, it has become one of the largest store networks in the country. While the individual stores are owned by local Romanian business owners, the overarching brand, logistics, and private-label supply chain are managed by the German multinational METRO.

Ownership today remains firmly with METRO AG, headquartered in Düsseldorf, Germany. The company provides the franchise partners with marketing support, store arrangement guidelines, and a stable supply of goods through METRO’s wholesale infrastructure. This ensures that the brand remains a dominant force in the Romanian 'convenience' market for the foreseeable future.