Salling Group is converting 51 of its stores into emergency supermarkets across Denmark by 2028. The initiative aims to secure food and essential goods for citizens in case of national crises or prolonged power outages.
Salling Prepares for National Emergencies
By the end of 2028, Danish retail giant Salling Group plans to open 51 so-called “emergency supermarkets” across 50 cities in Denmark. The goal is to make sure that Danes will still have access to crucial groceries and household items if a crisis hits the country. Each store will be equipped with improved backup power systems, offline payment options, and larger reserves of essential goods like bottled water, canned food, and other critical supplies.
These designated emergency supermarkets will serve as a reliable option for households that may run out of supplies during major disruptions. The strategy complements the government’s renewed focus on national readiness.
Nationwide Coverage by 2028
All Bilka stores across Denmark will be converted into emergency-ready shops, except for Bilka Hillerød, where the local Føtex will take on that role instead. Additionally, a wide selection of Føtex stores and two Netto shops—one in Thisted and another in Rønne on Bornholm—will be included.
Salling Group’s chief executive, Anders Hagh, explained that the company wants customers to be able to shop as they normally would, even during emergencies. Backup generators, offline payment systems, and staff training are key parts of the setup. While Hagh admits that a few products might sell out in prolonged outages, the ambition is to keep daily life as normal as possible for shoppers.
Large Investment Without Profit Focus
The project is a major logistical and financial undertaking. It involves buying emergency power generators, expanding storage capacities, and training store employees to manage operations under unusual conditions. Salling Group has stated that this initiative is not motivated by profit but by a sense of responsibility and preparedness.
Even though it represents a large cost to the company, the leadership hopes the move will help build confidence among Danes and strengthen community stability. The first batch of stores is expected to open in early 2026, with progress updates released throughout the rollout period until 2028.
Government and Industry Support
Emergency preparedness has become a growing topic in Denmark. Government officials, including Emergency Management Minister Torsten Schack Pedersen, have praised Salling Group’s approach. The minister emphasized that private-sector involvement plays a critical role in strengthening Denmark’s overall readiness. He also pointed out that the country’s civil preparedness infrastructure had been neglected for years and needed rebuilding.
The collaboration between major retail chains, suppliers, and the state is seen as a step toward ensuring that people can still access vital goods when disruptions occur. Both Falck and Coop have also been identified as companies ready to support contingency operations if necessary.
Changing Attitudes Toward Preparedness
Public awareness of emergency preparation in Denmark has increased significantly in recent years. Studies show that most Danes only have enough household supplies for three days, highlighting the need for better planning. The Salling Group effort is intended to fill that gap by serving as a last resort for local communities during natural disasters, cyber disruptions, or power blackouts.
The Beredskabsstyrelsen (Danish Emergency Management Agency) has long recommended that every household keep essential supplies, including water, canned food, batteries, and first aid kits. Salling’s new stores will stock these items in larger quantities than usual, making them available even if digital systems fail.
Looking Ahead
By aligning private businesses with national emergency strategies, Denmark is taking concrete steps to improve public resilience. If everything goes as planned, the full network of emergency-ready supermarkets will be operational within three years, creating a safety net for millions of citizens in times of crisis.
Sources and References
The Danish Dream: Danes unprepared for emergencies despite warnings
The Danish Dream: Best grocery stores in Denmark for foreigners
TV2: Her åbner Salling 51 beredskabsbutikker
