Romania – Retail and Consumer Issues

What are the typical shop opening hours in Romania, and do they vary by day, region, or shop type?

When it comes to retail trading hours, Romania stands out as one of the more permissive EU member states. Unlike several of its European counterparts, the country imposes no nationwide restrictions on Sunday trading — all shop types are free to open on that day. Large supermarkets and shopping centres accordingly trade throughout the entire week, including weekends, without interruption.

In practice, major chains such as Lidl, Kaufland, and Carrefour typically unlock their doors at around 07:00 or 08:00 and remain open until somewhere between 21:00 and 23:00. Shopping centres in the capital — including Bucharest Mall Vitan and Plaza România — generally follow hours of approximately 10:00–22:00 on most days. Smaller neighbourhood shops and convenience stores may start slightly later and close earlier, though many keep long hours to serve local residents.

On prominent public holidays — most notably Christmas Day (25 December) and New Year’s Day (1 January) — a large number of supermarkets and malls shut entirely or switch to noticeably reduced schedules. During the 2025–2026 festive period, for instance, Christmas Day saw malls closed to the public, while trading resumed at 10:00–22:00 on Boxing Day (26 December). It is always wise to verify hours on a specific store’s website or social media channels before travelling during national holidays, since practices differ between chains and locations.

There is a clear contrast between metropolitan and rural Romania. In Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timișoara, Brașov, and other sizeable cities, supermarkets, hypermarkets, and shopping malls are densely distributed and maintain extended hours. In smaller towns and villages, residents typically depend on local alimentara (small grocery outlets) or neighbourhood shops, which often keep shorter and more unpredictable hours. Some rural establishments close for a midday break or scale back at weekends.

Following a public debate sparked by proposals from small-format retailers, Romania’s prime minister confirmed in March 2024 that supermarkets would not face weekend closure requirements. This means the country’s open trading environment is expected to persist for the foreseeable future.

What forms of payment are typically accepted in Romania?

Physical cash in Romanian Leu (RON) continues to be a widely used payment method for everyday purchases, while debit and credit cards enjoy near-universal acceptance in cities, with contactless technology now the standard. Visa and Mastercard are the predominant card networks, welcomed in supermarkets, malls, restaurants, and hotels throughout urban Romania without exception.

Between 2020 and 2024, the share of cash transactions at point-of-sale terminals fell by 11 percentage points, illustrating a gradual but consistent migration towards digital payments. Approximately 29% of Romanians already favour contactless payments for their convenience and security. Nevertheless, 40% of Romanians made their most recent in-person purchase using cash as of 2024, underpinned by longstanding habits and a persistent trust in physical currency.

Mobile payment solutions have gained a firm foothold in Romania. Apple introduced Tap to Pay on iPhone in the country in 2024, allowing merchants to accept contactless in-person payments using only their device. Digital wallets including Google Pay, Apple Pay, and homegrown platforms such as eMAG Wallet are growing in popularity, offering enhanced transaction speed and security. Revolut has established itself as a market leader locally, prized for its budgeting features, favourable exchange rates, and compatibility with Romanian bank accounts.

Cash on Delivery (COD) remains a significant feature of e-commerce in Romania. Many consumers — especially those in rural regions — prefer to hand over cash when goods arrive at the door, partly owing to concerns about online fraud. If you wish to avoid paying for an order in advance, most Romanian online platforms continue to offer this option.

Romania’s official currency is the Romanian Leu (RON). Euros are not routinely accepted in standard shops or supermarkets, although some businesses in tourist areas, hotels, and certain service providers may quote or accept them informally. It is sensible to keep RON on hand for markets, smaller local retailers, rural areas, and public transport. Tipping is standard practice in restaurants (typically around 10%) and for taxi drivers and hairdressers, but is not expected in retail settings.

What are the main supermarkets in Romania, and how do they compare on price and quality?

Romania’s supermarket sector closed 2024 with a combined turnover of 149 billion lei, representing a year-on-year increase of 4.35%. The market is led by international operators, with two German retailers holding the top positions.

Lidl occupies first place among Romanian supermarkets, posting a turnover of 23.97 billion lei and a net profit of 1.22 billion lei in 2024 and employing more than 12,700 people. Following the same formula familiar to shoppers across Europe, Lidl Romania focuses on value-driven grocery shopping, a strong own-label range, and regular themed promotions showcasing international foods. It is a particularly attractive option for shoppers managing a tight household budget.

Kaufland takes second position, recording a turnover of 19.58 billion lei and a net profit of 1.15 billion lei, with a workforce of roughly 14,600. The chain is majority-owned by German company Kaufland International Erste GmbH and operates as a large-format hypermarket — comparable in scope to a Walmart Supercenter or a large Carrefour — combining groceries, fresh produce, clothing, electronics, and household items under a single roof. It is competitively priced and draws families undertaking sizeable weekly shops.

French multinational Carrefour runs multiple store formats in Romania — Carrefour Contact, Carrefour Express, and Carrefour Market — totalling approximately 419 outlets nationwide. Positioned in the mid-range, Carrefour offers a broad product selection that includes a respectable range of international and own-brand goods, making it a dependable choice for expats who value European food standards at accessible prices.

German group REWE operates several formats in Romania, including Penny, Penny XXL, and XXL Mega Discount, with around 311 stores as of 2023. Penny functions as a budget discounter — comparable in market positioning to Aldi where that brand is recognised — and represents an economical choice for daily essentials. The chain has been expanding vigorously into smaller cities and provincial towns.

Mega Image is a well-regarded mid-range chain with a particularly concentrated presence in Bucharest and surrounding suburbs, running numerous compact convenience-style outlets in residential streets. It is appreciated for fresh produce and in-store bakery offerings. Auchan operates hypermarkets in a similar bracket to Carrefour, offering broad ranges at competitive prices. Profi is a Romanian retail group managing over 1,644 stores across the country, making it a familiar sight at neighbourhood level — especially outside the major urban centres. Lidl and Kaufland together account for more than a third of the sector’s total turnover, underlining their dominance of the market.

For premium and organic options, dm drogerie markt — a German health and beauty chain that also stocks health foods — has a substantial presence in Romania, reporting growth of 21.77% year on year for the 2024–2025 financial year. Specialist organic shops and bio markets are also multiplying in Bucharest and other large cities, catering to an increasingly health-conscious consumer base.

Where can expats find international or home-country products in Romania?

Tracking down international or speciality products in Romania has become noticeably easier in recent years, particularly in the country’s larger cities. Major chains such as Kaufland and Carrefour stock a substantial variety of internationally branded goods and imported foods. Lidl regularly runs themed “international food weeks” highlighting products from countries including Italy, Spain, Greece, and France, which can serve as a useful source of familiar items for expats from those regions.

For more specific imported goods, Bucharest and other large cities host a growing number of specialist import retailers. Asian grocery stores — particularly Chinese and Vietnamese outlets — are present in Bucharest, serving the sizeable Asian expat and student population and providing essential ingredients for East and Southeast Asian cuisines. Arab and Middle Eastern grocery shops also operate in Bucharest and several other major cities, supplying halal-certified meats, spices, and speciality foods. For halal products more generally, seek out dedicated butchers and grocers signposted as “Produse Halal” — these are especially prevalent in cities with larger Muslim populations, including Constanța on the Black Sea coast, which has a historically rooted Muslim Tatar community.

Kosher products are harder to come by. Romania’s Jewish community is centred primarily in Bucharest, where a handful of specialist retailers and community-linked suppliers can source kosher-certified items. Contacting the local Jewish community organisation directly is the most reliable way to find current and trustworthy sources.

For vegan and organic products, dedicated health food shops — often trading under names incorporating “bio”, “organic”, or “natural” — are becoming increasingly common in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timișoara, and Brașov. Chains such as La Doi Pași, selected Mega Image branches, and specialist bio retailers carry a widening range of vegan and free-from products. Online ordering is another practical avenue: platforms such as eMAG (Romania’s largest e-commerce site) and various speciality online stores stock an extensive selection of international, organic, and dietary-specific goods available for home delivery.

Romania’s network of traditional food markets (piețe) is a cornerstone of local life in every town and city. These markets are superb for fresh, seasonal, and locally produced fruit, vegetables, dairy products, and meat — frequently at prices below supermarket equivalents and with quality that can be exceptional. For many expats, visiting the piață becomes one of the most rewarding aspects of everyday life in Romania.

How popular is online shopping in Romania, and what are the main platforms?

Romania’s e-commerce sector is forecast to generate $6.34 billion in revenue, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7% between 2024 and 2028. Serving a population of over 19 million, the market is experiencing steady expansion in digital payments and online purchasing behaviour, propelled by rising internet penetration and widespread smartphone adoption.

The leading domestic e-commerce platform is eMAG (emag.ro), which commands the largest share of online retail in Romania and across South-East Europe. Its catalogue spans electronics, home appliances, household goods, fashion, and groceries (through its Freshful by eMAG service), among much else. eMAG runs its own marketplace where independent sellers can list their products, operating in a manner similar to Amazon Marketplace. Delivery speeds are competitive — same-day or next-day dispatch is available within Bucharest and other major cities, while nationwide delivery generally takes 2–4 working days. A premium membership tier, eMAG Genius, provides free or discounted delivery on qualifying orders.

Other prominent Romanian online retailers include Altex and Flanco (electronics and appliances), Fashion Days and Answear (clothing and accessories), and Elefant.ro (books, electronics, and general merchandise). Most of the major supermarket chains, including Carrefour and Auchan, also offer online grocery ordering with home delivery.

Amazon does not maintain a dedicated Romanian domain, but Romanian shoppers frequently order from Amazon.de (Germany), Amazon.co.uk, or Amazon.com. Purchases from EU-based Amazon sites fall under intra-EU free movement rules and generally clear without customs complications. Orders arriving from outside the EU — including Amazon.com — are subject to Romanian customs duties and VAT if the declared value exceeds €150 (as of 2025). Customs processing can add time to delivery, so budget accordingly and use the carrier’s tracking system to monitor progress. Romania’s standard VAT rate is 19%, with a reduced rate of 9% applicable to food, medicines, and certain other product categories.

Romanian online shoppers can choose from a broad spectrum of payment methods, from card payments and bank transfers to Cash on Delivery and Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) options. Courier services including Fan Courier, Sameday, and DPD support Cash on Delivery, managing both the delivery and cash collection on behalf of the retailer. Returns for online purchases are straightforward under EU consumer law as implemented in Romania: buyers have 14 days to return most items purchased remotely without needing to provide a reason. Individual retailer policies should be checked, as some offer return windows beyond the statutory minimum.

What consumer rights do you have when shopping in Romania?

As a member of the European Union, Romania has transposed EU consumer protection directives into national law, meaning the rights afforded to shoppers are broadly in line with those available across the EU. The principal legislation governing consumer protection includes the Consumer Protection Law (Legea nr. 449/2003, updated to incorporate successive EU directives) and the Distance Selling Law implementing the EU Consumer Rights Directive. The authority responsible for enforcing these rights is the Autoritatea Națională pentru Protecția Consumatorilor (ANPC) — the National Consumer Protection Authority — whose website is accessible at anpc.ro.

For goods purchased in a physical store, EU law entitles you to a legal guarantee (warranty) of at least two years on new products, covering faults that existed at the time of purchase. This is not simply a matter of retailer goodwill — Romanian law obliges sellers to repair, replace, or refund defective goods within this period. Where a defect emerges within the first year after purchase (extended to two years under updated EU rules), it is presumed to have been present at the point of sale, placing the burden of proof on the seller to demonstrate otherwise.

For goods bought online or by telephone (distance selling), you benefit from a 14-day right of withdrawal as of 2025 — meaning you may return the item for any reason and receive a complete refund without penalty. This entitlement does not extend to certain categories, such as bespoke or custom-made goods, perishable products, or digital downloads once accessed. The seller must be notified of your intention to withdraw within the 14-day window, and you ordinarily have a further 14 days to physically return the goods.

Romanian law forbids unfair commercial practices, including misleading price displays, fictitious “sale” pricing, and bait-and-switch selling techniques. ANPC has proposed that retailers be required to display their commercial mark-up alongside product prices, enabling consumers to make fully informed purchasing decisions — a reflection of an active regulatory stance on pricing transparency.

It is essential to retain your receipt or another form of proof of purchase, as this is typically required when pursuing a warranty claim or lodging a complaint. For the most up-to-date information on timeframes, financial thresholds, and legal requirements, consult the ANPC website or the relevant Romanian legislation directly, since rules are subject to periodic revision.

What should expats know about consumer complaints and dispute resolution in Romania?

If you encounter a problem with a retailer or service provider in Romania — whether involving a faulty product, an inaccurate price, a missing delivery, or a refused refund — there is a well-defined process for pursuing a formal resolution.

1. Approach the seller directly in the first instance. Both Romanian law and sound consumer practice encourage attempting to settle the matter with the retailer before involving external authorities. Put your complaint in writing — email is perfectly acceptable — and retain a copy. Cite the specific right you are invoking, such as your entitlement to a two-year guarantee under the Consumer Protection Law.
2. Escalate to ANPC if the matter is not resolved. The Autoritatea Națională pentru Protecția Consumatorilor (ANPC) is Romania’s principal public body for consumer complaints. Complaints can be submitted online through the authority’s official website. ANPC holds the power to investigate businesses, impose fines, and mandate corrective action. All major retail chains — including Carrefour, Kaufland, Lidl, Profi, Penny, and Mega Image — have undergone ANPC inspections, with products removed from sale and sanctions imposed where violations were identified.
3. Use the EU Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) platform for online transactions. Where you have purchased goods online from an EU-based trader — including Romanian e-commerce retailers — the European Commission’s Online Dispute Resolution platform offers a mechanism for reaching an out-of-court settlement. This route is especially well-suited to cross-border disputes within the EU.
4. Consider the Small Claims Court (Judecătoria). For disputes concerning relatively modest amounts, Romania’s Small Claims procedure (aligned with EU Regulation 861/2007 for cross-border cases) allows you to bring a claim before the local Judecătorie (court of first instance) without necessarily engaging a lawyer. Verify the current financial thresholds applicable to this procedure with the court or a legal adviser, as these are subject to change.
5. Seek guidance from consumer organisations. Bodies such as the Asociația pentru Protecția Consumatorilor din România (APC Romania) provide advice and assistance to consumers. Consult their official website for up-to-date contact information and the range of services currently on offer.

When lodging a complaint with ANPC, you will generally need to provide your full name and contact details, a clear description of the issue, the name and address of the business concerned, the date of purchase, and any supporting documentation such as receipts, photographs, or written correspondence. Complaints are submitted in Romanian; if you are not yet proficient in the language, consider enlisting help from a Romanian-speaking friend, a colleague, or a professional translation service.

For the latest contact details, procedural guidance, and any updates to the complaints process, always consult the official ANPC website directly, as these may be revised over time.

Are there any practical shopping tips or cultural norms expats should be aware of in Romania?

Bargaining: Prices in supermarkets, shopping centres, and most fixed-price retail outlets are set and non-negotiable — haggling is neither expected nor customary in these settings. At outdoor markets (piețe), antique fairs, and when dealing directly with individual traders or stallholders, however, gentle negotiation may be perfectly acceptable and is sometimes anticipated, particularly for larger purchases or towards the end of the trading day.

Plastic bag charges: In keeping with EU environmental policy, Romania charges for single-use plastic carrier bags. Expect to pay a small fee — typically a few lei — at supermarket checkouts. Bringing your own reusable shopping bag is both cost-effective and common practice. Charges can vary between retailers, so check with the individual store for the current amount.

Deposit return scheme (SGR — Sistemul de Garanție-Returnare): Romania’s national container deposit scheme (SGR) was launched in 2023. Under this programme, a deposit of 0.50 RON is added to the retail price of all drinks sold in plastic bottles (up to 3 litres), glass bottles (up to 1 litre), and aluminium cans. The deposit is refunded when you return empty, clean containers to the reverse vending machines (RVMs) installed at most major supermarkets. The system mirrors those operating in Germany, the Netherlands, and the Nordic countries. As of 2025, the SGR is fully operational and continuing to expand — look for the green SGR logo on eligible packaging and the return machines near store entrances.

Loyalty schemes: The principal supermarket chains operate loyalty programmes accessible via card or smartphone app. Kaufland’s Club card, the app-based Lidl Plus, Carrefour’s loyalty programme, and Mega Image’s Gustocard are among the most popular. These programmes provide personalised discounts, digital vouchers, and cashback on purchases, and are free to join — well worth signing up for if you want to trim your regular shopping costs.

Product labelling: All goods sold in Romanian supermarkets must carry labelling in Romanian. Allergen information, ingredients lists, and nutritional details will therefore appear in Romanian. Imported products frequently arrive with Romanian-language stickers applied over the original packaging. Learning key food-related terms in Romanian — for example, “conține gluten” (contains gluten), “fără lactoză” (lactose-free), and “bio” (organic) — will help you interpret labels with confidence.

Fresh markets: Romania’s network of traditional food markets (piețe agroalimentare) is an enduring institution. Every town and city has at least one, and Bucharest alone is home to numerous markets, including Piața Obor, Piața Matache, and Piața Amzei. These venues are outstanding sources of locally grown seasonal vegetables and fruit, dairy products (including artisan cheese and sour cream), eggs, and meat — often at prices considerably lower than supermarkets, and with a freshness and quality that can be hard to match. Market activity peaks on Saturday mornings.

Tipping in service contexts: While never obligatory, tipping is a recognised custom in Romania and is appreciated in restaurants (10–15% of the bill), by taxi and ride-share drivers, hairdressers, and delivery couriers. In retail shops, tipping is not a practice and is not expected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are supermarkets in Romania open on Sundays?

Yes. Romania is among the EU countries that permit all shop types to open for at least part of every Sunday. The majority of large supermarkets trade on near-standard hours on Sundays. The main exceptions are major public holidays such as Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, when many chains close completely or switch to reduced operating hours.

Can I use euros to pay in Romanian shops?

Romania’s currency is the Romanian Leu (RON), and euros are not accepted as standard payment in everyday retail shops or supermarkets. Some businesses in tourist areas — restaurants, hotels, and certain service providers — may accept euros informally, though you will typically receive change in RON at an unfavourable rate. For day-to-day purchases, paying in RON is always advisable.

Is it easy to pay by contactless card or phone in Romania?

In cities and larger towns, debit and credit cards are broadly accepted, with contactless payment now the default mode. Both Apple Pay and Google Pay function in Romania without issue. In smaller towns, rural settings, and traditional markets, however, cash remains strongly preferred, so keeping a supply of RON with you at all times is a sensible precaution.

Which supermarket is best for expats in Romania?

The answer depends on your particular needs. Lidl and Penny deliver the most competitive pricing for standard weekly groceries. Kaufland suits families and those who prefer to complete all their shopping under one roof, given the breadth of its product range. Carrefour and Mega Image strike a solid balance between quality and price, with Mega Image being especially handy for neighbourhood-level convenience shopping in Bucharest. For organic and health-oriented products, dm drogerie markt and dedicated bio stores are the most rewarding options.

Does Amazon deliver to Romania?

Amazon does not operate a dedicated Romanian storefront, but orders can be placed through Amazon.de, Amazon.co.uk, or Amazon.com. Purchases from EU-based Amazon sites generally arrive without customs complications under intra-EU free movement rules. For orders dispatched from outside the EU — such as Amazon.com in the United States — goods with a declared value above €150 may attract Romanian customs duties and VAT (as of 2025). International delivery times are typically longer; allow 5–14 working days depending on the shipping method selected.

What is the SGR deposit return scheme in Romania?

The Sistemul de Garanție-Returnare (SGR) is Romania’s national beverage container deposit scheme, introduced in 2023. A deposit of 0.50 RON is included in the price of qualifying drinks containers — plastic bottles, glass bottles, and aluminium cans. Returning empty containers to the reverse vending machines at participating supermarkets entitles you to a full refund of the deposit. The green SGR logo on packaging identifies eligible containers. As the scheme continues to expand, always verify the current deposit amount and the list of participating return points.

How do I make a complaint against a Romanian retailer?

Begin by raising the issue with the retailer in writing and keeping a copy of all correspondence. If no satisfactory resolution is reached, submit a formal complaint to the ANPC (Autoritatea Națională pentru Protecția Consumatorilor) through their official website at anpc.ro. For online purchases from EU-based sellers, the European Commission’s Online Dispute Resolution platform provides an additional avenue for out-of-court resolution. For current procedures and contact information, refer directly to the ANPC website.

Are there halal or kosher products available in Romania?

Halal-certified products and dedicated halal butchers are available in larger cities, notably Bucharest and Constanța — the latter having a historically significant Muslim Tatar community. Look for shops and counters labelled “Produse Halal.” Kosher products are more limited in availability; getting in touch with the local Jewish community in Bucharest is the most effective way to identify current sourcing options. Vegan and organic products are becoming progressively easier to find in specialist “bio” shops and through online platforms such as eMAG.