TERWIN businesses recommended for cooperation by Japan’s JETRO

11.07.2025

VARUS has been included in the list of “100 Leading Ukrainian Companies” compiled by the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO).

VARUS is part of TERWIN — a corporation established to scale the successful experience of its businesses into strategic projects for Ukraine’s development.

The Ukrainian supermarket chain VARUS joined JETRO’s project “100 Leading Ukrainian Companies.” This recognition highlights the company’s status as a reliable partner for international cooperation and an innovative leader in Ukrainian retail.

JETRO is a Japanese government organization promoting mutual trade and investment between Japan and the rest of the world. The project aims to introduce Japanese businesses to Ukrainian companies that can become potential partners or consultants for expanding operations in Ukraine.

“Being included in this list is not just recognition of our achievements — it opens new opportunities for cooperation with Japanese businesses,” VARUS representatives commented.

VARUS has much to showcase in terms of innovation. The company was among the first in Ukraine to introduce self-checkout systems and develop a unique mobile app for scanning products and paying via Apple/Google Pay without interacting with store staff. Today, VARUS ranks third among Ukrainian retailers in e-commerce.

The company also has ambitious growth plans. Within five years, VARUS aims to enter the top three largest retailers in Ukraine. Japanese partners may find the company’s approach to social responsibility especially appealing. During the full-scale invasion, VARUS evacuated and rehired employees, closed operations in Donetsk region, and continued expanding in other areas. Some of its stores are dog-friendly, reflecting the company’s philosophy of treating customers as cherished friends.

Beyond technological innovation, VARUS continues to develop its private-label products and enhance environmental sustainability, including upgrading refrigeration systems to reduce CO₂ emissions. The company also offers delivery services and consistently invests in digital transformation.

The portfolio describing all companies included in JETRO’s project is available on the organization’s official website. Printed materials are distributed at business meetings and exhibitions, including the World Expo 2025 in Osaka.

JETRO plans to expand the list to 150 companies by the end of summer, creating even more opportunities for Ukrainian-Japanese business cooperation. For VARUS, this recognition marks an important milestone in its international development strategy and its search for technological partners among leading Japanese companies.