Join Craig Smith and Winston Norman on the Coffee with Craig Show for your daily dose of CRE news in the CEE region, brought to you by EuropaProperty.com.
EBRD Increases Stake in Online Food Retailer Rohlik
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is increasing its investment in Czech online grocery retailer Rohlik Group. Leading a €160 million funding round that includes the European Investment Bank (EIB), Sofina, Index Ventures, and Quadrille, EBRD’s additional equity will support Rohlik’s expansion in Germany, Hungary, and Romania, and further automate operations in its home market. Tamás Nagy of EBRD praised Rohlik’s innovative use of AI and automation. Rohlik, founded by Tomáš Čupr, aims to enhance its market leadership in online grocery delivery through this new funding, focusing on sustainability and support for local food producers.
Designer Outlet Croatia Among Europe’s Top Premium Outlet Centres
Designer Outlet Croatia has been ranked 23rd in Ecostra’s latest study of Europe’s premium outlet centres. The outlet, which has seen a 10% sales increase in Q2 2024 compared to the previous year, attributes its success to strategic expansions and new store openings. Upcoming expansions in 2025 include an additional 6,000 sqm for new stores and a new INGKA retail park. Centre Manager Nikola Grđan highlighted the outlet’s focus on sustainability, holding a BREEAM certificate for green construction and implementing numerous eco-friendly initiatives. The centre, which opened in 2018, attracts visitors with a range of over 100 brands and various sustainability programs.
“This recognition confirms our commitment to excellence and continuous growth. The constant increase in sales is the result of strategic expansion, bringing in international brands and a focus on sustainability,” said Nikola Grđan, Centre Manager at Designer Outlet Croatia.
LCP Unveils New M Park Project in Brzeziny
LCP Properties, a key player in the Polish retail park market and part of the international M Core group has finalized the acquisition of a plot in Brzeziny, Łódź Voivodeship, from Genesis Property for the development of M Park Brzeziny. Set to open in early 2025, this new retail park will feature over 6,000 sqm of leasable space with 16 tenants, including well-known brands like Aldi, Sinsay, Rossmann, and Media Expert.
Genesis Property will oversee both the construction and commercialization processes, ensuring timely completion and tenant readiness. “The partnership with Genesis Property aligns perfectly with our strategic goals and has allowed us to maintain our project timeline,” said Magdalena Kowalewska Kasperowicz, Chief Operating Officer of LCP Properties. Juliusz Warzywniak, President of Genesis Property, added, “This collaboration marks an important step in creating modern retail parks and sets the stage for future projects.”
Panattoni to Expand Warehouse Park Near Łódź
Panattoni is expanding its Panattoni Park Koluszki near Łódź by an additional 14,000 sqm after completing its commercialisation. Current tenants Kamoka and Pet Republic are significantly increasing their leased space. Kamoka will nearly double its area to 26,500 sqm, while Pet Republic will expand to 13,700 sqm. The park, set to reach 40,500 sqm by early 2025, benefits from its strategic location in Central Poland, offering prime access to major transport routes and a special economic zone. The facility is BREEAM certified, incorporating energy and water-saving measures. Managing Director Dorota Jagodzińska-Sasson emphasizes the site’s growing business potential and strategic importance.
