BIG CEE has signed a financing agreement with EBRD worth €100 million for further expansion in the Balkans!
BIG CEE, a subsidiary of BIG Shopping Centers Israel, plans to use the funds for the construction of three new retail parks in Serbia and for the refinancing of their two existing retail parks.
Details About The New Retail Park Projects
The projects funded by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) will include new retail parks in Čačak, Šabac, and Bor, with their openings planned for the end of 2025.
With the construction of the first phases of these centers, BIG CEE will expand its portfolio by an additional 40,000 square meters.
The retail parks in Šabac and Čačak will introduce an entirely new format to the market. They will feature “lifestyle” content that combines top shopping options, gastronomy, and entertainment, which will provide visitors with a unique experience in each segment.
By the end of the year, the company’s portfolio will cover nearly 450,000 square meters.
Refinancing Existing Retail Parks
In addition to financing new projects, a significant portion of the funds will be used to refinance existing centers in Rakovica and Pančevo.
“We are pleased to continue and expand our cooperation with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) in financing five projects in Serbia. I would like to thank our colleagues at EBRD for their trust and cooperation, as their dedication contributes to the growth of our business in the Balkans, especially in Serbia, through this credit line,” said Alon Bargiora, CFO of BIG CEE.
EBRD’s Support for Sustainable Retail Development
Vlaho Kojaković, Director of EBRD’s Real Estate Sector, highlighted that through their partnership with BIG CEE, they strive to jointly create sustainable, high-quality retail infrastructure that fosters economic growth and enhances consumer experiences in the region.
“We are extremely pleased to support the expansion of BIG CEE in Serbia and the Western Balkans. This move aligns with our Real Estate Strategy for 2025-2029, which focuses on investing in green transition, strengthening human capital resilience, and addressing housing and affordability challenges”, said Vlaho Kojaković, Director of EBRD’s Real Estate Sector.
BIG CEE’s Market Leadership
With 16 active properties, 14 of which are in Serbia, BIG CEE is recognized as a leader in the retail sector.
The company’s portfolio includes 10 retail parks and three shopping centers under the BIG FASHION brand.
Recently, BIG CEE acquired the Promenada shopping center in Novi Sad, making it the largest transaction for a single property to date, both for the company and for the commercial real estate market in Serbia.
Their portfolio also includes the only designer outlet in the country, BIG Fashion Outlet Inđija.
In Montenegro, the company owns the largest shopping center, BIG FASHION Podgorica, as well as the multifunctional property The Capital Plaza, which combines office and retail spaces, a hotel, and rental apartments.
BIG CEE plans to further expand its portfolio in Montenegro through the expansion of existing properties and the construction of new ones.
A Commitment to Sustainable Growth
BIG shopping centers stand out for their rich offerings of entertainment, educational, and cultural events that attract numerous visitors.
The company is strengthening its position in the market, making its properties not only excellent shopping destinations but also hubs for social life.
The partnership with EBRD confirms BIG CEE’s commitment to sustainable development and investments that ensure long-term growth in the Balkans.
Through continuous investments, the company will continually improve and expand its portfolio, strengthen its brand recognition, and enhance the visitor experience across the region.
Fore more information about BIG CEE visit: big-cee.com
