German retail chain “Lidl” launched preparatory activities for the construction of a logistics and distribution center in the Rechica industrial zone in Kumanovo at an event Wednesday.
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The investment is worth EUR 80 million and is expected to create more than 150 jobs.
Apart from representatives of the company, the event was attended by representatives from the Government, the German ambassador, and representatives from the Municipality of Kumanovo.
“Today’s event is a confirmation of our long-term firm partnership with our German partners and encouragement for our economic policies, which create a favorable and predictable corporate environment for foreign investors that have chosen our country as a stable and secure destination for their investment,” said Prime Minister Dimitar Kovachevski at the event.
"I believe that Lidl will write a successful story in our country as well, as is the case in the region."
According to Kovachevski, the Government’s “Euro-Atlantic oriented policies” have resulted in the largest amount of foreign direct investments of EUR 754 million during a time of crisis in Europe.
He added that he expects them to multiply after the country joins the EU.
“We have created favorable conditions for growth in the technological industrial development zones as well, where the number of employees has risen to 18.000, while the average gross wage in the companies, according to the latest data, has exceeded Mden 60.000. The Macedonian market is no longer isolated.
"The Growth Plan for the Western Balkans opens the doors of the single European market for us, and places us on a fast-track to membership into the Union by boosting and strengthening regional cooperation,” said Kovachevski.
He said it is a top priority to “bring Europe home” through joint work and “by being united over the concept for a prosperous European future”.
Deputy Prime Minister Bytyqi said the teams had worked hard to create the conditions for construction of the distribution center and that “Lidl” sees the country as a partner for joint success. He said other investments in the zone would follow. ■
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