Groupon exits Romania

Newsroom 04/09/2014 | 10:05

Groupon has decided to shut down its operation in Romania, effective Wednesday, writes Techcrunch. The news was sent out in an email to its merchant partners in the country signed by EMEA VP Luke Massery.

“After a thorough analysis of the Romanian market and taking into account all relevant factors, we have decided to close our business in Romania,” a spokesperson noted in an emailed statement.

“A combination of the macroeconomic situation and the low internet penetration in the country made it difficult for Groupon to gain desired critical mass. Shutdown of our operations in Romania is in effect from 03.09.2014.”

The spokesperson confirmed that there would not be further closures in other countries, calling Romania a “special case” in the region.

For those who have already bought Groupons, or for businesses that have offered them on the platform, they will have them honored until the date originally agreed. Alternatively, customers will be able to get refunds for any unused Groupon deals that they have purchased.