
As Neptun enters a new phase of growth, the company is taking a decisive step forward by bringing its operations across the region under one unified structure: Neptun International. This transformation marks more than an organizational shift, it reflects a clear ambition to scale faster, operate more efficiently, and strengthen Neptun’s position as a leading regional digital retailer.
At the center of this transition is Alexandros Kosenas, recently appointed CEO of Neptun International. In this interview, he shares the vision behind the move, his priorities, and what this evolution means for employees, partners, and customers.
Neptun has successfully operated as separate entities for years. Why is now the right time to unify into a single “Neptun International” structure?
Because the business has reached a level of scale where operating country by country is no longer the most efficient model. We already have strong market presence, experience, and capable teams. The next step is to connect these strengths under one structure so we can move faster, unlock synergies, and prepare for the next phase of growth.
You are transitioning from CEO of Neptun Albania to CEO of Neptun International. How does your experience shape your strategy?
Albania has been a strong learning ground in terms of growth, competition, customer experience, and transformation. I’ve seen what works in practice and what doesn’t. My approach is not to replicate one country’s model everywhere, but to transfer best practices, discipline, and a growth mindset across all markets.
What is the core objective of this restructuring?
The goal is simple: to make Neptun stronger, faster, and more scalable. We want a unified direction, better coordination, and stronger execution. This requires a structure that supports both efficiency and future expansion.
What are the immediate benefits of moving to one unified structure?
The key benefits are improved coordination, reduced duplication, and faster sharing of know-how. It also strengthens alignment between countries and helps standardize core functions such as commercial planning, marketing, systems, and operations.
How will decision-making evolve under this model?
The structure is designed to increase agility. Country Managers will remain close to their markets and customers, while the international organization provides direction, priorities, and support. The focus is on clear roles, faster decisions, and strong accountability at both local and regional levels.
Will this change improve resource optimization across markets?
Yes—and we are not starting from zero. We have already built synergies in recent years. A unified structure gives us more room to coordinate procurement, strengthen negotiations, and align commercial priorities. The same applies to marketing, where we can share campaigns, tools, and standards while still adapting to local needs.
What is your message to employees across the region during this transition?
This is a positive step. It is about creating more opportunities, stronger support, and a bigger future—for both the business and our people. Change naturally brings questions, but our intention is to build something stronger together, not to distance ourselves from local teams.
Will this create new career opportunities across countries?
Absolutely. One of the key benefits is that talented people will have broader development paths. We want to encourage knowledge sharing, cross-country exposure, and more international opportunities for high performers.
How will you build a unified culture while respecting local identities?
We aim to build a common Neptun culture based on shared values: performance, teamwork, and customer focus. At the same time, each market has its own dynamics. The culture should be unified in principles but flexible in how it is expressed locally.
From a customer perspective, will there be noticeable changes?
Yes. Customers should experience a more consistent and stronger Neptun—both in-store and online. This means higher standards, improved service, stronger assortments, and a more advanced omnichannel experience.
Will this accelerate digital transformation?
Absolutely. A unified structure allows us to align priorities and avoid fragmented efforts. Areas such as e-commerce, loyalty programs, systems, and customer data can move forward more effectively under one shared direction.
Are there successful initiatives that will now scale across all markets?
Yes. We already have proven successes in specific countries, whether in product categories, services, or customer programs. These can now be transferred, adapted, and scaled across the region.
How does this impact relationships with global partners?
It strengthens our position significantly. We become more relevant as a regional partner, with a broader footprint and a clearer long-term vision. For global brands, this means working with one stronger, more coordinated platform.
What message does this send to BALFIN Group’s partners?
It reflects maturity, ambition, and long-term thinking. It shows that Neptun is building a serious regional business with stronger governance, clearer structure, and higher strategic value.
How will Neptun’s competitive advantage evolve?
Our advantage will come from combining local market understanding with international scale. We remain close to our customers, while operating with greater efficiency, strength, and speed at a regional level.
What are your priorities for the first 100 days?
First, ensuring clarity in the new structure and responsibilities. Second, aligning priorities across countries. Third, identifying key synergy areas where we can quickly create value. And finally, keeping teams engaged, focused, and confident during the transition.
Does this structure support future expansion?
Yes. A unified structure creates a stronger platform for entering new markets. Expansion becomes more efficient when you already have a centralized model and regional management experience.
What is your final message to all stakeholders?
This is a growth move. It is about building a stronger Neptun for the future, with the ambition to become a leading regional digital retailer, stronger for employees, stronger for partners, and stronger for customers.