The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is supporting Altex Romania, the country’s leading electro-IT retailer, as it makes a major strategic move into the DIY sector. The Bank is participating in a €43 million loan arranged by Raiffeisen Bank Romania to finance Altex’s acquisition of Bricostore, the fourth-largest home-improvement chain in the country. This marks Altex’s first major acquisition and a significant step in its business diversification strategy.

EBRD Provides €21.5 Million in Risk Participation

The EBRD’s €21.5 million unfunded risk participation is the first sub-loan delivered under the Risk Participation Framework (RSF) agreement signed with Raiffeisen Bank Romania. Under the RSF, the EBRD provides guarantees for loans offered by partner banks, enabling them to increase lending capacity to SMEs, mid-caps and large corporates.

By freeing up capital for Raiffeisen Bank Romania, the framework helps strengthen access to finance and supports broader economic development across the country.

Strengthening Romania’s Retail and DIY Market

The acquisition of Bricostore marks a turning point for Altex as it expands beyond electro-IT into home-improvement retail. The move allows Altex to offer a more comprehensive product ecosystem while creating new opportunities to strengthen its national footprint.

“This transaction is a defining moment in Altex’s long-term strategy to diversify and expand,” said Dan Ostahie, Founder and CEO of Altex Romania. “With the support of the EBRD and our strong partnership with Raiffeisen Bank Romania, we can accelerate investments, strengthen the home-improvement sector and deliver better services to customers across Romania.”

A Strong Partnership to Support Economic Growth

“We are pleased to support this deal, which will help build a more dynamic business environment in Romania,” said Frederic Lucenet, EBRD Global Head for Manufacturing and Services.

Victoria Zinchuk, EBRD Head of Romania, added: “This transaction highlights our ongoing commitment to key market players in Romania and deepens our partnership with both Altex and Raiffeisen Bank Romania.”

Raiffeisen Bank Romania emphasised the significance of this first RSF-backed loan.
“This is an important milestone in our partnership with the EBRD and reinforces our commitment to supporting Romanian companies and driving economic development,” said Cristian Sporiș, Vice-President Corporate & Investment Banking and Board Member at Raiffeisen Bank Romania.

The project ensures stronger access to finance, supports the growth of a major Romanian retailer and contributes to long-term competitiveness within the Romanian retail and DIY landscape.