The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is providing up to €25 million to support the development of a new energy-efficient logistics center for Voli Trade in Montenegro. This landmark project will enhance supply chain efficiency, promote digitalization, and set new sustainability standards in the region.
Reducing Energy Use and Emissions with Montenegro logistics investment
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is investing up to €25 million to finance a new 25,600 m² logistics and distribution center for Voli Trade, Montenegro’s leading food retailer. This project is a significant step towards modernizing the country’s supply chain infrastructure.
The state-of-the-art facility will be located near Montenegro’s capital, Podgorica. It will feature advanced energy-efficiency technologies designed to exceed the country’s national energy performance standards, significantly reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions. The integration of modern solutions, including sophisticated storage and warehouse management systems, is central to the project’s design. This focus on advanced equipment, including the types of manufacturing machines used to create energy-saving components, aligns with the EBRD’s commitment to promoting environmentally friendly infrastructure.
For Voli Trade, which operates 80 multi-format stores across Montenegro, this project will centralize and strengthen its operations. The new facility is expected to enhance the company’s supply chain efficiency, reducing delivery times and overall operational costs.
Supporting Green Infrastructure through Montenegro logistics investment
The EBRD’s investment highlights its focus on supporting green infrastructure and sustainable development. By financing energy-efficient projects, the EBRD aims to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainable growth. The choice of building components, which often relies on sustainable raw materials, is crucial for the success of such green initiatives.
This investment is part of the EBRD’s broader strategy in Montenegro, where the Bank has invested over €1 billion across 105 projects to date. According to Remon Zakaria, EBRD Head of Montenegro, this investment advances digital and green standards, strengthens competitiveness, and sets new benchmarks for the retail sector.
Beyond the physical infrastructure, the financing package includes technical assistance for digitalization and cybersecurity. It also provides funding for an internship program targeting women, aiming to address gender underrepresentation in the logistics sector. The logistics centre is expected to serve as a model for future developments, demonstrating the benefits of integrating advanced technologies and sustainable practices.
Voli Trade: A Leader in Retail and Montenegro logistics investment
Voli Trade is Montenegro’s largest food retailer, known for its extensive network of supermarkets and wholesale outlets. This new center will serve as a central hub for its entire supply chain, supporting its nationwide expansion plans.
Dragan Bokan, Chairman of Voli Trade, noted that the deal confirms Voli’s alignment with European standards and its ability to attract high-quality investment, building on a partnership with the EBRD that spans nearly two decades. The development of the new energy-efficient logistics centre is a testament to Voli Trade’s dedication to reducing its environmental impact and enhancing operational efficiency through a modern manufacturing process for its key infrastructure.
The EBRD’s financing is expected to boost Voli Trade’s competitiveness and contribute to the growth of Montenegro’s retail sector. The project will create new jobs, improve supply chain efficiency, and support the country’s transition to a more sustainable economy.
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