Maja Dulc, Country Manager Serbia, CPI Property Group: Retail parks remain the most stable format in real estate

- The retail market in Serbia continues to grow and change along with consumer needs, which has a direct impact on our development strategy. At the same time, we are focused on network expansion

and improvement of existing locations through capacity expansion and further development of the "Life Hub" concept, that puts the entire user experience at the center.

First of all, after the successful completion of the second development phase, STOP SHOP Sremska Mitrovica will enter the third phase of expansion in 2026. Works on an additional 875 square meters are planned for the second quarter, while the opening of new content is planned for the fourth quarter. Within this phase, the retail park`s offer will be enriched by the arrival of two recognizable international brands - the footwear and accessories chain CCC and the KFC restaurant, one of the world`s leading fast-food chains.

Šabac also expects significant news, where STOP SHOP is entering the second stage of development. In the fourth quarter of 2026, the start of construction of a McDonald`s restaurant with an area of 430 square meters is planned, while the opening is scheduled for the first half of 2027. The arrival of this global brand will further strengthen the retail park`s position as an important shopping, dining and family gathering destination.

In STOP SHOP Vršac, the start of the third phase of development is planned for the first half of 2027, which by the end of the year will bring an additional 1,285 square meters of space and a new mix of domestic and international brands.

As the crown of this investment cycle, we are proud to announce a completely new STOP SHOP in Kraljevo. This greenfield project will include more than 10,000 square meters of retail space, over 20 outlets and more than 300 parking spaces, and the beginning of the works and the opening are planned for 2027.

These projects confirm that we see the greatest potential for further expansion precisely in the markets that are experiencing growth in purchasing power and the need for modern, accessible and multi-functional retail formats, what STOP SHOP represents today.

We are following this transformation through sustainable solutions - from BREEAM certification and electric vehicle chargers to solar panels, rainwater collection systems and urban green zones. At the same time, new stages of development contribute to employment, strengthening the local economy and creating spaces that match the needs of the community...

- The key lies in the model`s exceptional flexibility and functionality, which adapts quickly to market changes and consumer needs. The combination of high availability, "open air" concepts and offers based on daily and essential needs ensures a stable and predictable attendance, even in challenging market conditions.

- The future of the STOP SHOP format entails a combination of both directions - further expanding the network in cities with development potential and continuous transformation of existing sites. The focus is no longer solely on quantitative growth, but on the improvement of the quality of experience

that our retail parks offer to visitors and local communities.

Our goal is for each STOP SHOP to become a recognizable destination in its city - a multifunctional area that connects shopping, gastronomy, services, business encounters, family time and social life. All new phases of development and investment are aimed at creating sustainable, modern and relevant spaces that meet the community`s long-term needs.