Tesco has already created 1,500 jobs in Hungary this year, 10% of which were management positions, and it set out to boost its workforce to 19,000 by end-2006. “Our store opening program is on track, so far this year we have opened 10 new stores and 11 new petrol filling stations, bringing even better prices and choice to our customers,” foodnavigator.com cited James McCann, CEO of Tesco-Global stores in Hungary, as saying. Tesco’s interim results 2006/7 reveal that consumer confidence and sales had fallen as a result of increases in tax and VAT leaving shoppers with less to spend. By offering low prices Tesco’s claim to have made overall sales progress despite the difficult climate. “This autumn Tesco is celebrating its 12th birthday in Hungary. We are committed to further investment in Hungary and look forward to bringing Tesco stores to more communities,” McCann added. Tesco is Hungary’s largest hypermarket retail chain and the second largest British investor in Hungary. The supermarket works with local suppliers including Aranynektár, Gilan, Foltin Globe or Bonbonetti. (portfolio.hu)