Invest Archives - Total Croatia https://total-croatia-news.com/invest/ Sun, 16 Jul 2023 12:54:40 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.5 https://total-croatia-news.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/favicon.ico Invest Archives - Total Croatia https://total-croatia-news.com/invest/ 32 32 4 Croatian Investment Projects Worth Your Attention: Part 1 https://total-croatia-news.com/invest/4-croatian-investment-projects/ https://total-croatia-news.com/invest/4-croatian-investment-projects/#respond Sun, 16 Jul 2023 12:53:20 +0000 https://total-croatia-news.com/?p=159945 July 16, 2023 – Looking to invest in Croatia? An overview of 4 Croatian investment projects. In Croatia, a land teeming with investment opportunities, there are certain projects that the Ministry of Physical Planning, Construction, and State Assets decided are worthy of special attention. Hence, it has published the informative brochure named “BEAUTY. INVEST. CROATIA.” ... Read more

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July 16, 2023 – Looking to invest in Croatia? An overview of 4 Croatian investment projects.

In Croatia, a land teeming with investment opportunities, there are certain projects that the Ministry of Physical Planning, Construction, and State Assets decided are worthy of special attention. Hence, it has published the informative brochure named “BEAUTY. INVEST. CROATIA.” Within its pages, four projects can be found: Jurjeva Luka, Hidrobaza, Promajna, and Perna. These projects, all situated on the coast, are potentially lucrative opportunities for investors seeking to capitalize on Croatia’s thriving economy. With public tenders scheduled for the third quarter of 2023, the four projects represent an enticing chance for discerning investors who seek long-term gains and wish to secure a stake in Croatia's bright future. And the Ministry’s recognition of their potential surely underscores the value and attractiveness of these investment ventures.

1. JURJEVA LUKA

Situated on the island of Lastovo, the project Jurjeva luka includes a large land for tourism development and construction of a nautical tourism port, with a building plot of a size of approx. 10 ha. The urban development plan allows the construction of hotels and villas of categorisation 5 stars, with the area for construction of tourist facilities being 6.3 ha, and area for construction of villas 2.8 ha. The capacity which could be realized there includes 500 beds (450 in hotels, 50 in villas).

The project also enjoys the maritime domain, i.e. a beach, for whose development a concession is granted. Within this domain, a nautical tourism port of a surface area of approx. 12 ha and the land area of approx. 2.75 ha for the construction of a parking lot, garage and catering and tourist facilities are planned on Lastovo. The sea area (aquatorium) with a surface area of approx. 9 ha envisions the construction of a marina with a capacity of up to 400 berths.

And what about the island of Lastovo itself? Located in the Adriatic Sea, namely in the southern Dalmatian archipelago, and known for its unspoiled natural beauty, Lastovo is recognized as a protected nature park due to its rich biodiversity and pristine landscapes. The island is characterized by dense forests, vineyards, and high coastal cliffs, offering visitors a tranquil and idyllic retreat. Lastovo Town, the main settlement on the island, showcases charming stone houses and a historic core, reflecting its rich cultural heritage. With its stunning coastline, secluded coves, and crystal-clear waters, Lastovo is also a popular destination for boating, swimming, and diving enthusiasts. The island's remote location and untouched nature make it an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path Croatian experience.

2. HIDROBAZA

The second project is called Hidrobaza and it is a compact building plot for high-intensity tourism development (approx. 28.6 ha). Štinjan Urban Development Plan allows the construction of a hotel, an apartment complex and a campsite with a 4–5-star rating. The height limitation is set at 16 m, with a maximum of 4 grounds being built. The Republic of Croatia owns more than 90% of the plot, while the rest is co-owned with the City of Pula. The construction area is 16.7 ha (construction coefficient 0.30), and the maximum number of beds is 1200. There is also a recreation area of 11.9 ha envisaged as part of this project.

The western side of the site enjoys a developed beach on maritime property. Regarding the infrastructure, connection to public infrastructure is required and existing infrastructure should be upgraded by the development or expansion of the electrical grid, water supply system, and gas distribution network. Nonetheless, the location has excellent motorway connections with European cities: Munich – 605 km, Vienna – 598 km, Milan – 550 km and less than 10 km to the city centre, the motorway, and the airport.

This plot is in the city of Pula, Istria, the leading Croatian tourism, wine, and gastronomy region, with 2300 hours of sunshine and more than 25 million overnight stays a year. Pula itself is an ancient City with a rich cultural heritage. The Roman amphitheatre dating back to 1st century AD particularly stands out. The amazing Brijuni National Park – lying just across Hidrobaza – with its beautiful flora and fauna will also take your breath away. This project’s value is estimated at around 50 million EUR.

3. PROMAJNA

The project Promajna includes the existing facilities located in a pine forest near the sea, planned for urban transformation, economic uses, and tourism (hotels and/or villas) with the minimum quality of new facilities being rated 4 stars. These accommodations could provide around 800 beds and the smaller part within the planned zone is envisaged for sports and recreational purposes.

The building plot has a size of approx. 6,8 ha and it is the former Children’s sanatorium for respiratory diseases ‘’Dječje selo.’’ Situated in Promajna, on Makarska Rivijera, 4 km south of Baška Voda, this project can be found in a perfect place, with eye-catching beaches and optimal climate, for a peaceful vacation, especially suitable for families. Likewise, it is well connected by road; 7 km from Makarska, 50 km from Split (airport), and 12 km from one of the main highways, Highway A1. Lastly, there already was a public tender for this project in 2021 and its price was set at 14 million EUR.

4. PERNA

This project is located on the beautiful island of Pelješac, one of the largest peninsulas in Croatia. It is suitable for tourism development, has a total area of 8,5 ha and enjoys the presence of Perna tourist settlement with hotel ‘’Komodor’’ and camp Orebić. Its potential includes a maximum capacity of 900 beds, namely 630 in a hotel and 270 in villas. A former military resort, the site is situated right on the seashore, above the landscaped beach, in the immediate vicinity of Orebić, opposite the island and town of Korčula.

Pelješac peninsula itself is located halfway between Split and Dubrovnik. This second-largest peninsula in Croatia enjoys a great Mediterranean climate that has made it the perfect climate for growing vines and making top-quality wines. Pelješac is also famous for its salt pan. Furthermore, the Pelješac Riviera is the warmest part of the Croatian coast, where the fragrant garden of the Mediterranean blooms, full of almonds, walnuts, figs, pomegranates, citrus fruits, and kiwi. Importantly, Pelješac has recently been connected to the mainland by the Pelješki Bridge and the vicinity of Split and Dubrovnik are indeed helpful.

To end this first part, one or more of these projects could easily spark someone’s interest; however, for those who would like to look further, in the upcoming Part 2 you can read about 4 other projects which are equally worth your attention.

— TEASER – ‘4 Croatian Investment Projects Worth Your Attention: Part 2’

And check our new TCN section Invest in Croatia for further articles.

If you are interested in any of these projects or investing in Croatia, contact us at news@total-croatia-news.com

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Family Businesses in Croatia: Sustaining Legacy and Driving Economic Growth https://total-croatia-news.com/invest/family-businesses-in-croatia/ https://total-croatia-news.com/invest/family-businesses-in-croatia/#respond Sun, 18 Jun 2023 08:02:53 +0000 https://total-croatia-news.com/?p=158742 June 18, 2023 – A look at one of the driving forces of the economy – Family businesses in Croatia. According to the 2023 Family Business Index, the largest 500 family businesses are growing faster than the global economy – at nearly twice the rate of advanced economies and around 1.5 times the rate of ... Read more

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June 18, 2023 – A look at one of the driving forces of the economy – Family businesses in Croatia.

According to the 2023 Family Business Index, the largest 500 family businesses are growing faster than the global economy – at nearly twice the rate of advanced economies and around 1.5 times the rate of emerging market and developing economies. Collectively, they generate 7.5 trillion EUR in revenue and employ 24.5 million people worldwide. Obviously, the importance of family businesses is paramount.

Croatia, although a small and relatively young country, hosts many family-owned businesses. Unfortunately, due to the lack of an official or legal definition and, consequentially, statistical tracking of family businesses in Croatia, it is impossible to produce the exact data on their number and hence the possible impact of family businesses on the Croatian economy. However, it is estimated that in Croatia, more than 50% of employees work in family businesses, which speaks to what a strong and important segment of the economy it represents.

The story of family-run businesses in Croatia spans several generations and is an integral part of Croatia’s thriving economy. The legacy of such businesses is one of robust entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and a strong feeling of community. They operate in a variety of sectors, from retail and hospitality to agriculture and manufacturing, yet they are all unified by shared core values – trust, stability, and commitment to the community.

Importance to the Economy

Regardless of the statistical impediment, it is indisputable that in Croatia, the presence of family-owned businesses is well-known. On one side, we find heritage-rich family enterprises that have significantly evolved over time, laying the cornerstone for some of the country’s most influential joint-stock corporations such as Podravka d.d., which recently, concluded trading on the Zagreb Stock Exchange with a price of 96.60 EUR, the highest price in its trading history. On other side, Croatia’s economic tapestry is additionally colored by both younger and older family ventures managed as limited liability companies or family farms (OPG) and entirely run within the family’s ownership and management.

The article will cover four family businesses from the agribusiness sector, which has traditionally been feeding the Croatian people and contributing to the Croatian economy. Namely, two large ones, Gavrilović and Pivac, both in the meat industry, and two small/micro family businesses, Chiavalon and Franc Arman are at the forefront of this article.

Gavrilović

Gavrilović epitomizes a heritage-rich family business whose roots go back to 1620 when the Gavrilović family started producing and selling meat products in Petrinja. Today, the company is managed by the ninth generation of the Gavrilović family, thereby ensuring that traditional recipes and methods are combined with modern production techniques. Precisely because of this long family heritage, Gavrilović is unique in Croatia and among the few such family companies in the world. Its meat industry is equipped with the most modern industrial machines and production lines, and with more than 400 years of tradition, Gavrilović has significantly influenced Croatian gastronomy and culinary heritage.

Pivac

An equally inspiring story of a large heritage-rich family enterprise is the story of the Meat Industry Brothers Pivac which began in the small town of Vrgorac in Dalmatian Zagora back in 1952. Starting as a small, family craft based on the tradition of meat processing and drying, over the years Pivac has grown into one of the leading meat industries in Croatia, with an annual production of 350,000 pieces of prosciutto, all owing to the perseverance of the traditional recipe and quality, while listening to market needs and using new technologies. With more than 2,000 employees, Pivac is one of the largest and most respected meat industries in this part of Europe.

Chiavalon

Then there is a tale of Chiavalon, a micro family-owned business in Istria which produces olive oil. This family heritage from grandfather to grandson combines tradition with technology to produce highest-quality olive oil. Back in 1997, when the pioneering grandfather passed away, the Chiavalon family cultivated only 50 olive trees aged 300 to 400 years. Nowadays, it has altogether 9,000 olive trees, mostly autochthonous olive sorts, with several contracted cultivators for an additional 5,000 trees. This family business’ production is under certified ecological supervision. Its extra virgin olive oil bears the Organic Label, as well as the Protected Designation of Origin, which both guarantee and ensure that this is certified 100% organic extra virgin olive oil from Istria.

Arman

Lastly, we turn to a story of the Arman family, led by skilled winemakers Franco and Oliver, who owns the famous Franc Arman Winery in Istria. This OPG continues to nurture the fundamental values of their ancestors’ tradition with the same passion today. Their ancestors began to cultivate the vine as far back as 1850 when the beauty and value of the vineyards was the essence of life, the foundation, and the strongest support for the survival of Istrian families, just like it is today. During the past half-century, grandfather Edoardo Arman diligently and loyally planted malvasia and teran. With hard work, into which he wove unspeakable love and all his life, he brought the art of making good wine to a peak. Today, on the foundations of this invaluable tradition, the Arman family elevates its values to new heights, into new spheres of excellence.

Large family business such as Gavrilović and Pivac, or smaller like Chiavalon or Franc Arman, operate with a multigenerational vision, characterized by robust continuity plans, passing leadership roles from one family generation to the next. Their unique blend of tradition, passion, and familial commitment often forms the backbone of their enduring success and longevity. As such, their contribution to the economy of Croatia is invaluable. Although Croatia’s legislation neither defines nor gives a special status to ‘family businesses,’ their various government initiatives and policies recognize their significance. These initiatives aim to bolster family businesses’ growth and sustainability, recognizing them as crucial contributors to national GDP and employment rates.

Lifeblood of the Economy

Beyond their economic contributions, Croatian family businesses hold significant socio-cultural importance. They are custodians of traditional knowledge and skills, from crafting world-renowned Croatian wines and olive oil to producing the coveted Pag cheese and Dalmatian prosciutto and pancetta. And this is only the agribusiness sector. Through the preservation of these traditions, family businesses also promote tourism, contributing to Croatia’s overall attractiveness as a destination. They likewise drive economic growth and stability as significant job creators which provide substantial employment opportunities.

These firms also contribute to economic resilience, often serving as a bulwark against economic downturns due to their long-term orientation and adaptability. Contrary to popular belief, family businesses contribute to innovation rather than being stuck in the past. They constantly innovate, balancing respect for tradition with a keen eye on the future. Finally, by fostering an entrepreneurial mindset across generations, family businesses serve as incubators for original ideas, ensuring their longevity and continued relevance.

Altogether, family businesses are the lifeblood of Croatia’s economy and an integral part of the global economy. Their enduring success lies in the strength of familial bonds, a long-term vision, and their ability to adapt and innovate. They embody the spirit of entrepreneurship, resilience, and dedication. Their legacy extends beyond the balance sheet, shaping the country’s economic landscape and contributing to its social fabric. With their long-term perspective, strong values, and fascinating adaptability, family businesses in Croatia continue to play a vital role in driving economic growth and nurturing next generations of entrepreneurs. As custodians of their family legacies, these businesses carry forward a rich tradition while embracing the challenges and opportunities of the modern business world.

— TEASER – ‘4 Croatian Investment Projects Worth Your Attention’

Check our new TCN section Invest in Croatia for further articles.

Looking to invest in Croatia? Contact news@total-croatia-news.com Subject Invest.

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A Deeper Dive into the Blossoming Investment Landscape in Croatia: Unveiling Potential and Opportunities https://total-croatia-news.com/invest/a-deeper-dive-into-the-blossoming-investment-landscape-in-croatia-unveiling-potential-and-opportunities/ https://total-croatia-news.com/invest/a-deeper-dive-into-the-blossoming-investment-landscape-in-croatia-unveiling-potential-and-opportunities/#respond Fri, 09 Jun 2023 13:17:38 +0000 https://total-croatia-news.com/?p=157562 June 9, 2023 – Taking a closer look at the investment landscape in Croatia. Croatia is a synonym for breathtaking Adriatic coastline, ten UNESCO heritage sites, historic cities, and great geographical, culinary, and other diversity despite its small size. As such, it is justifiably regarded as a top-tier tourist destination on a global scale. This ... Read more

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June 9, 2023 – Taking a closer look at the investment landscape in Croatia.

Croatia is a synonym for breathtaking Adriatic coastline, ten UNESCO heritage sites, historic cities, and great geographical, culinary, and other diversity despite its small size. As such, it is justifiably regarded as a top-tier tourist destination on a global scale. This southeastern European country, however, offers far more than beautiful landscapes and cultural wealth which attract more than ten million tourists a year. In the last few years, Croatia has been gaining enviable prominence as an attractive hub for investment, marked by promising sectoral potential.

Strategically situated at the crossroads of Central Europe, the Balkans, and the Mediterranean, Croatia’s geopolitical location represents a significant advantage. The country’s proximity and access to key European markets offer a business landscape that can easily cater to over 500 million consumers within the region. This strategic positioning is further augmented by Croatia’s inclusion in the EU, which ensures regulatory consistency and compliance with the EU’s acquis, providing a more predictable business environment.

As we stand at the intersection of global economies witnessing seismic shifts, the key to a resilient investment portfolio lies in its diversification across geographies and sectors. Often, the most rewarding investment destinations are those that are just beginning to reveal their potential. In this context, Croatia emerges as a compelling candidate. A member of the EU since 2013, Croatia offers an intriguing blend of advantages that could catalyze robust investment returns.

This article underlines three highly promising sectors with great potential of growth. It likewise identifies key regions within Croatia that represent compelling investment opportunities in the aforementioned sectors.

  1. REAL ESTATE

The real estate sector in Croatia is witnessing a significant boom, particularly in coastal regions. Driven by the strong demand for houses, short-term rentals, and luxury properties, investing in Croatian real estate can yield attractive returns. One can see confirmation of the liquidity of investments by the statistics showing a 2% growth of residential real estate prices per quarter.

The average price per 1m2 of housing in Croatia is above 2,000 EUR, with the highest prices being in Dubrovnik-Neretva County (2,843 EUR), Split-Dalmatia County (2,753 EUR), and Istria County (2,559 EUR). Alongside Dubrovnik, Split is the most expensive city in Croatia for purchasing real estate.

In 2022, both apartments and houses in Split experienced a 12% increase in prices in both categories of properties. The average price per square meter for an apartment in Split was 3,495 EUR, while potential buyers had to allocate an average of 3,697 EUR per square meter for a house. Such high prices are indicative of a strong demand for properties and a reflection of a healthy real estate market.

In addition, there are public tenders available for multiple projects with a promising real estate potential. Recently, the Ministry of Physical Planning, Construction and State Assets published a brochure with four interesting projects for which public tender is expected in Q3 (July-September): on the islands of Lastovo and Pelješac, and in Makarska and Pula. For example, on a long stripe of coastline in Pula there is a compact building plot of approx. 28.6ha suitable for high intensity tourism where the construction of a hotel, an apartment complex, and a campsite with a 4–5-star rating is allowed. With the construction area of 16.7ha, there can be up to 1200 beds produced by this project. Knowing that Croatia is a globally renowned top-tier tourist destination with 104,8 million of overnight stays, 88% of which are accounted for by foreign tourists, investments of this type can yield above and beyond marvelous results.

Investing in Croatian real estate is teeming with opportunities for both short-term gains through rental income and long-term appreciation in property values. As such, this sector should be at the top of the foreign investors’ to-explore list.

  1. NAUTICAL TOURISM

The country’s natural beauty, strategic location, and growing demand for maritime experiences by a steady flow of tourists make Croatia attractive to the eyes of investors interested in nautical tourism. In 2022 alone, nautical tourism marines in Croatia produced a revenue of 132 mil. EUR, 14% more than in 2021. As such, nautical tourism in Croatia is on the rise.

One of the most significant investments in the recent period were the completion of the Phase I of the large nautical-tourism project Katarina Monumenti in Pula, with an investment of 30 mil. EUR in the Marina Polesana Pula nautical tourism harbor, as well as a complete reconstruction of the ACI Marina Rovinj, which was an investment of approximately 20 mil. EUR. Currently, the largest investment is in the construction of a new nautical tourism harbor in Rijeka – the Porto Baroš Marina with a capacity of 230 berths, for which investment funds in the amount of around 48 mil. EUR are available. In the following period, the public tender is expected to be announced for the concession to build the new nautical tourism harbor in Sućuraj on the island of Hvar, with a capacity of 250 berths.

The project involves the construction and economic use of a specialized harbor – the Sućuraj nautical tourism harbor, valued at approximately 13 mil. EUR. The island of Hvar is one of the most attractive destinations on the Adriatic Sea and this project will be of paramount importance for nautical tourism in Croatia. Lastly, one of the above-mentioned four projects for which public tenders are expected includes a large land for tourism development and construction of a nautical tourism port of a surface area of approx. 12 ha. The sea area (aquatorium) with a surface area of approx. 9 ha envisions the construction of a marina with a capacity of up to 400 berths.

All in all, the potential for long-term returns from investments in nautical tourism in Croatia is significant and such an investment offers an exciting opportunity to embrace the country’s maritime treasures.

  1. RENEWABLE ENERGY

As a country committed to sustainable practices and ecological balance, in accordance with the EU’s stringent environmental and energy regulations, Croatia is evolving as a promising destination for green investments. Renewable energy projects, particularly in solar and wind energy, represent substantial opportunities for investors looking to capitalize on green energy.

Owing to its geographical position, Croatia is one of the most promising European countries vis-à-vis the potential of renewable energies. For example, the abundance of sun makes Croatia well-suited for solar energy projects. Istria County and Split-Dalmatia County have 30 and 40%, respectively, more insulation compared to Munich (Germany), thereby creating 30 to 40% earlier return on investment. Nevertheless, the potential spreads widely across the country as the biggest solar power plant (10 MW) worth around 7 mil. EUR and covering 17,6 hectares, found its place in Međimurje, the northernmost county in Croatia. In addition to the geographical flexibility, investment in solar power plants on average returns within five to seven years, thereby additionally increasing the potential of such an investment.

In terms of wind energy, Croatia has a total of 24 wind farms with around 719 MW of installed wind power capacity (representing around 10% of the country’s electricity generation); 325 wind turbines deliver around 1,788 GWh of electricity per year. The greatest potential is on the Adriatic coast, namely in the following counties: Zadar County, Šibenik-Knin County, Split-Dalmatia County, and Dubrovnik-Neretva County. The village of Korlat is home to the largest wind farm in Croatia – 18 wind turbines, with an installed capacity 3.6 MW each, produce around 170 GWh annually (about 1% of Croatia’s annual electricity consumption/energy for more than 50 000 households).

Recent major investments in the sector speak to its potential and consequential attractiveness. For instance, Switzerland’s largest producer of renewable energy and international leader in energy trading and marketing of solar and wind power, Axpo, concluded the 10-year Power Purchase Agreement in Croatia. The investment in an onshore windfarm in Zadar County will produce enough power for 85,000 household, thereby decreasing the emissions by 78,000 tons of CO2 annually. Furthermore, Athens-based EuroEnergy, a renewable energy subsidiary of Libra Group (NY-based international conglomerate operating in different sectors) has recently announced that it would acquire a 114 MW wind energy development in Udbina, with a total investment being 150 mil. EUR.

Altogether, Croatia’s richness in sources of renewable energy, especially solar and wind energy, and its ongoing green transition, create an ideal combination for a well-returning investment project.

All these investment opportunities, and there are many more to explore, point to one direction. With its unique blend of strategic location, economic diversity, and a plethora of untapped potential, Croatia is a true rising star in the European investment landscape. The country offers a compelling investment proposition for forward-looking investors seeking to expand their global footprint. Moreover, the exploration of investment opportunities within Croatia is not merely about tapping into an emerging European market; it represents a strategic move towards portfolio diversification, risk management, and potential high-growth investment.

While the country is already witnessing an influx of investment across various sectors, its potential is far from exhausted, making it an exciting time to consider investment opportunities in Croatia.

— TEASER – ‘Family Business in Croatia: Sustaining Legacy and Driving Economic Growth’

Check our new TCN section Invest in Croatia for further articles.

If you are looking for investment opportunities in Croatia, please contact news@total-croatia-news.com Subject Invest.

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Međimurje, Croatia: Small County, Big Investment Op https://total-croatia-news.com/invest/medimurje-croatia-small-county-big-investment-op/ https://total-croatia-news.com/invest/medimurje-croatia-small-county-big-investment-op/#respond Mon, 15 May 2023 13:17:21 +0000 https://total-croatia-news.com/?p=153574 May 15, 2023 – If they do not say Međimurje, they say ‘Mala Švicarska’ or ‘little Switzerland.’ It enjoys this nickname bestowed upon it on account of its openness to new technologies and developments, richness in natural resources and entrepreneurial mindset. This has been attracting foreign investments for years – in fact, the Financial Times ... Read more

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May 15, 2023 – If they do not say Međimurje, they say ‘Mala Švicarska’ or ‘little Switzerland.’ It enjoys this nickname bestowed upon it on account of its openness to new technologies and developments, richness in natural resources and entrepreneurial mindset. This has been attracting foreign investments for years – in fact, the Financial Times has recognized the county not once or twice but on four occasions. The latest achievement was the European Cities and Regions of the Future award, which placed Međimurje among the best regions for investments in Europe.

With this article, I aim at extracting values to which may attract investors and which are unique to the region and people of Međimurje, the northernmost and smallest but also most densely populated Croatian county.

What makes Međimurje different?

  1. Geostrategic location

Situated at the crossroads of major transportation routes, Međimurje has an excellent connection to major markets in Europe. The vicinity of capitals such as Zagreb, Budapest and Vienna plays a crucial role, in addition to the fact that Međimurje, bordered by the rivers of Mura and Drava, has historically been a pertinent hub for commerce and trade and a pivotal center for agriculture and industry. The county’s access to the several major transportation routes further speaks of its strategic importance, especially for international trade and logistics.

  1. Healthy & competitive business environment

Međimurje has a magnificently diverse business scenery. It is teeming with both small and large family businesses, while at the same time hosting multinational companies such as Leggett & Platt, Hilding Anders, Calzedonia and Haix. As such, this small region is full of big opportunities no matter the size, form, or industry. The choices are many. But not only has the potential of Međimurje been confirmed by the presence of giants but it also allows for potential cooperation with family-owned lucrative businesses.

  1. Highly educated & skilled workforce

Međimurje is home to smart and hard-working people. It is where one of the best high schools in the country are situated and where hard work is traditionally admired and practiced. Since Međimurje has historically enjoyed fertile lands suitable for agricultural production which represented the main source of income for many families, hard work has been passed on to the future generations that witnessed or listened about their parents or grandparents who spent hours and hours out in the fields of potato.

  1. Strong tradition of family-owned businesses

It is well-known that family businesses are the backbone of the global economy, but they are also a cornerstone of Međimurje’s economy. Not only is there a long tradition of family-owned businesses in this region, but they are also across a variety of industries and in different sizes, from mom-and-pop operated businesses to huge companies with hundreds of employees. These businesses have sustainability and social responsibility rooted in their existence with strong ties to the local community.

All these four distinctive qualities, especially when found in one place, may represent a formula for prosperity. Thus, they may well be the reason behind the high potential of a few investment areas in Međimurje.

What areas are high-potential investment areas in Međimurje?

  1. Agriculture

With an agricultural sector strong in all segments, including production, processing, and distribution, Međimurje is famous for its wine production and fruit and vegetable growing, all heavily focused on organic farming. Additionally, most of the agricultural businesses are family-owned and bring in the valuable factor of tradition which is absent from many mass-production agricultural businesses.

  1. Tourism

Breath-taking natural scenery combined with abundant cultural heritage and warm and welcoming people makes Međimurje very prone to having a successful tourism sector. Even more so, the heavy presence of entrepreneurial spirit in Međimurje, and specifically family-owned businesses, combined with its potential for tourism, allows for many great thriving business stories. A great example are families who own vineyards and produce wine, while at the same time invest in special experiences such as camping in the vineyards and drinking wine, tasting delicious food and listening to live music on the hills with the views of Slovenia and Hungary. Earlier this year, Međimurje won the silver Green Destination award at the biggest tourism fair in the world, the ITB Berlin, thereby becoming the first Croatian and fourth world’s region to make the Green Destinations certification list. This again speaks of the region’s promising potential in the tourism sector.

  1. Industry

Considering its size, one can easily call Međimurje an industrial hub. Be it manufacturing or processing, metal, food or textile and footwear industry, you can find it all in Međimurje. Common to all these industries, for instance, is that generations and generations have been gathering experience, knowledge, and skills, as the first meaningful steps were taken hundreds of years ago by their ancestors. Also, there is a research and development institution, Metal Centre Čakovec, devoted to the fields of technologies and processes in the metal industry.

  1. Real estate

There is a constant demand for residential and commercial properties, especially in urban areas such as the cities of Čakovec and Prelog. Many such properties have been built in the last decade, but the demand has only been increasing. Additionally, Međimurje has a very strong construction industry and is home to a growing number of construction companies, most of which have been present on the market for decades.

  1. IT

Besides a heavy focus on technology in general, Međimurje has a well-developed IT infrastructure, and the number of IT businesses is increasing annually. A wide range of industries has additionally made the IT sector growing and prospering as there are numerous overlaps and areas where the potential for cooperation is immense. However, these IT services do not only stay within the borders of Međimurje as the export of IT services internationally is high. Furthermore, a community college in Čakovec offers the study of computer sciences, thereby allowing the youth to study and work locally where the IT sector is certainly on the rise. Lastly, there is Technology-Innovation Centre Međimurje which helps innovative hi-tech entrepreneurs with their technologically advanced business ideas.

All in all, the future of investment in Međimurje is very bright and the potential of fruitful opportunities are sky-high. This region boasts an admirable development in multiple investment areas, all of which are interdependent and interconnected, thereby enabling Međimurje, which is unique in many ways, to fully benefit from its position. All these different areas can be working in harmony, complementing each other. It goes without saying that agricultural sector, for instance, can very well cooperate with tourism in Međimurje. The smarter Međimurje uses its advantages, the more successful and productive region it will be.

With its rich history, stunning natural scenery, and favorable entrepreneurial environment Međimurje sounds like a mecca for foreign investors. But is it really?

Read more – ‘A Deeper Dive into the Blossoming Investment Landscape in Croatia: Unveiling Potential and Opportunities’

Check our new TCN section Invest in Croatia for further articles.

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