Bulgarians' Incomes Rise Sharply, But Spending Follows Close Behind
According to the latest figures from the National Statistical Institute, household incomes and expenses in Bulgaria continued their upward trajectory in 2024
The Bulgarian incumbent telco Vivacom generated 29% of United Group’s revenues in the first quarter.
In a trading release, the group says that it was followed by Telemach Slovenia at 14%, Greece’s Forthnet also at 14%, SBB Serbia at 13%, and Telemach Croatia at 10%. Telemach BH and Telemach Montenegro each contributed less than 5% of Group revenue. Meanwhile, United Group’s media arm United Media contributed 13% of total Group revenues in the quarter.
At the same time, the largest contributions to consolidated EBITDA in the quarter came from Vivacom (34%), SBB (17%), United Media (14%) and Telemach Slovenia (13%).
The group’s revenues in Q1amounted to €439.4 million, up by 126.5% from €194.0 million in the first quarter of 2020, while adjusted EBITDA increased by 11.8%, from €84.6 million to €179.2 million. Capital investment in Q1 was €91.3 million, up 57.9% on the €57.8 million posted a year earlier.
United Group also notes that revenues in FY 2020 amounted to €1,161.3 million, or 56.5% more than the €741.8 million. Adjusted EBITDA increased by 52.5% from €315.6 million to €481.3 million, and investment by 57.3% from €197.2 million to €310.2 million, over the same period.
United Group’s entry into Croatia, Bulgaria and Greece grew the total market served by the company to approximately 40 million people. Pro-forma revenues significantly increased, reaching nearly €2 billion annually. RGUs at the end of Q1 were up more than 120% from a year earlier at approximately 11 million.
Commenting on the group’s performance, CEO Viktoriya Boklag said: “2020 was one of the most transformative years in our history and 2021 looks to be equally important. Positive trends in turnover and EBITDA have continued throughout 2020 and into 2021. Our steady path of profitable growth was supported by key acquisitions that opened new markets to us and which are providing a foundation for United Group’s continued leadership in the region as a provider of both telecommunications and media services. We see significant opportunities for growth in each new market, as well as healthy synergies with the rest of the group”.
She added: “Positive trends continue across the board. We are very optimistic about the future of the company and are taking proactive steps to future proof the business”.
According to the latest figures from the National Statistical Institute, household incomes and expenses in Bulgaria continued their upward trajectory in 2024
Bulgaria continues to lag behind neighboring countries in achieving significant growth in its tourism sector
The newly introduced US customs policy is creating both confusion and opportunity for businesses
The digital entertainment landscape is evolving rapidly, with new platforms and experiences reshaping how we spend our leisure time.
In the first quarter of 2025, the 20-BGN banknote has overtaken the 100-BGN note as the most frequently counterfeited denomination in Bulgaria,
According to recent data from the Trend Research Center, shared during the "Personal Finance" event by Money.bg, 38% of Bulgarians are unable to set aside any savings
Google Street View Cars Return to Bulgaria for Major Mapping Update
Housing Prices Soar in Bulgaria’s Major Cities as Demand and Supply Strain Increase