JYSK Will Acquire 25 Franchise Stores in 2027
The retailer plans to take direct control of its operations in Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia starting in January.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Business Strategy
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JYSK has reached an agreement to acquire 25 franchise stores currently operated by partner Fatmir Zymberi. The deal, which will take effect on January 1, 2027, marks the company's move toward direct control in these three markets.
Why it matters
By transitioning from a franchise model to direct ownership, JYSK aims to take full control over future investments and regional store expansion. This change allows the retailer to standardize development strategies across all three nations.
The acquisition includes 12 stores in Kosovo, 7 in North Macedonia, and 6 in Albania. This consolidation brings the total store count under direct corporate control to 25 units.
The players
JYSK
JYSK is an international retail chain that sells household goods such as mattresses, furniture, and interior decor.
Fatmir Zymberi
Fatmir Zymberi is the franchise partner who has been operating the JYSK stores in Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia.
The details
JYSK is ending its franchise partnership with Fatmir Zymberi to integrate these locations into its own corporate network. The company plans to leverage this new structure to open additional stores across Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia.
Timeline
JYSK began its franchise operations in Kosovo in 2004.
JYSK began its franchise operations in North Macedonia in 2008.
JYSK began its franchise operations in Albania in 2015.
The acquisition will take effect on January 1, 2027.
Market Landscape
This transition reflects a common industry shift where global retailers move from franchise models to direct ownership to capture higher margins. By centralizing management, JYSK positions itself to accelerate its expansion strategy against regional competitors.
Shoppers in these regions can expect a more standardized brand experience and potentially wider product availability as JYSK takes direct control. While retail pricing and store hours may remain consistent, the shift aims to improve the long-term quality and consistency of the retail environment.
The takeaway
Retailers frequently reassess their franchise arrangements once a brand reaches a certain level of market maturity. Consumers should watch for potential store renovations or new product lines as these locations transition to direct corporate management.
What happens next
The transition to corporate control is scheduled to finalize on January 1, 2027, pending official regulatory approval.
Further reading
Learn more about corporate growth models in the Business Strategy section.
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