Metro is considering taking its Media Markt electricals chain to Russia, and views the country as one of its five biggest priorities over the next few years.

Metro has run Cash & Carry stores in Russia since 2001, but only has seven to date.

It plans to extend its presence by opening six to eight shops a year.

Metro chief executive Dr Hans-Joachim Korber told German reporters that Media Markt’s entry to Russia was a possibility.

Metro aims to overtake Dutch rival Ahold to become one of the world’s top three retailers. Russia will form part of an €1.8 billion (£1.2 billion) expansion drive in Eastern Europe and Asia this year.