site.btaPM, Economy Minister Tour Newly Opened Logistics Centre Backed by BGN 60 Mln Investment

Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov and Minister of Economy and Industry Peter Dilov Wednesday took part in the official opening of a logistics centre near the village of Zagore, Stara Zagora Region, after an investment by Billa Bulgaria of over BGN 60 million. This is the retail chain's third logistics centre in the country and has created some 250 jobs, the Economy Ministry said in a press release.

Dilov commented that the new logistics centre is a significant contribution to the economic and social development of the region. “The expansion of the activities of investors like your company in Bulgaria is a recognition of our efforts to build a favourable business environment and attract quality investments,” Minister Dilov told Billa Bulgaria at the opening.

During the ceremony, the Economy Minister also stressed the importance of the investment for the Bulgarian economy, as it will create new jobs, increase productivity and gross domestic product, as well as fiscal benefits for the State. According to him, this is yet another big company that chooses Bulgaria as a destination to expand its investments.

Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov welcomed the active work of the company with Bulgarian producers in more than 180 fruit and vegetable gardens, greenhouses, and vineyards. In his words, that helps domestic producers to reach the Bulgarian market, but also to promote their products in Europe. The Prime Minister assured that all investors can count on the Government as a prudent partner.

"Confidence in Bulgaria's market, in the investment climate, is extremely important - it shows that Bulgaria not only deserves to be a worthy member of the European Union and won its Schengen recognition, but also receives the full support of its partners for joining the euro area and the OECD," Zhelyazkov said. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that in a few days, Bulgaria will have a reason to be satisfied with the assessment on its eurozone readiness that it will be given by the European Commission and the European Central Bank.

Wednesday's opening ceremony was also attended by Stara Zagora Mayor Zhivko Todorov and Billa CEO Dimitar Peshev.

Todorov said that attracting investors is a special priority for Stara Zagora Municipality, because it is a special region, which is in transition. "I would like to thank the management of REWE and BILLA for this investment, for these 250 jobs. The Maritsa-East [coal-fired plant] complex is very close to us, you know the processes that are developing there and the future that awaits it. Therefore, such an investment, as well as all the others that are taking place in the region, is really wonderful news", the Stara Zagora Mayor told the hosts and guests of the opening ceremony.

The logistics centre was built with a focus on sustainability and environmental protection. The new base in the village of Zagore has implemented technological innovations and the facility will be certified under the international BREEAM sustainability standard for green construction.