In 2023, SES’s shopping destinations in Slovenia strengthened their position as regional magnets for visitors and increased their turnover above the industry average. SES, the leading operator of large shopping destinations in Slovenia, achieved a significant result last year despite numerous challenges. The gross turnover from the sales of retailers, restaurants, and service establishments in SES’s five Slovenian shopping destinations – ALEJA Ljubljana, Citypark Ljubljana, Center Vič Ljubljana, Citycenter Celje, and Europark Maribor – amounted to 705 million euros, representing a 6.5% growth compared to 2022. This growth outperformed the general trend in the industry in Slovenia.
SES’s shopping destinations in Slovenia welcomed over 24 million visitors in 2023, a 5.8% increase, making them particularly attractive for tenants of retail and dining spaces. New lease agreements were signed with renowned brands, and existing ones were extended. SES Slovenia also continued its focus on sustainability and green initiatives by launching powerful photovoltaic power plants in all five shopping destinations.
Internationally, SES International achieved a gross turnover of 3.32 billion euros (+5.1%) in its 30 shopping destinations with approximately 1,800 retail partners, attracting over 112 million visitors. The acquisition of IL GRIFONE center in Bassano del Grappa, Italy, expanded SES’s portfolio to 31 destinations in six countries.
SES Spar European Shopping Centers currently manages over 168,000 square meters of shopping space in Slovenia, employing around 4,000 people across the five shopping destinations.
Christoph Andexlinger, CEO of SES Spar European Shopping Centers, emphasized the focus on creating vibrant spaces tailored to visitors‘ needs. He highlighted the consistent growth and the enduring demand for SES locations due to their prime locations and high footfall.
Toni Pugelj, Director of SES Slovenia, emphasized the role of their destinations as shopping and leisure hubs, providing a reliable environment for visitors and business partners alike.
In 2023, renowned brands showed significant interest in SES locations, with new openings such as Douglas perfumery in Europark Maribor and Citypark Ljubljana. Hervis opened the largest cycling center in Slovenia at Citypark Ljubljana, while other spaces were leased to C&A in Citycenter Celje and a pharmacy in Center Vič Ljubljana. ALEJA, recognized as the most modern shopping destination in Europe, welcomed several new partners across various sectors.
The Desetak gift vouchers performed well in 2023, with a 1.8% increase in sales at information points across SES shopping destinations.
ALEJA Ljubljana received the prestigious Design and Development Award from the European Council of Shopping Places, recognizing it as the best shopping destination in the category of New Centers with an area of 15,000 to 45,000 square meters.
SES’s commitment to sustainability and green initiatives was evident through investments of over 10 million euros in maintenance, renovations, updates, and electricity production measures in 2023. The installation of photovoltaic power plants across all five shopping destinations reduced CO2 emissions by 1200 tons.
SES’s shopping destinations in Austria, Slovenia, and Italy hold an energy management certification from TÜV AUSTRIA, with plans for an environmental management system implementation in the future.
Overall, SES’s success in 2023 reflects its dedication to providing exceptional shopping experiences, fostering sustainable practices, and maintaining strong partnerships with retailers and visitors.