Placemaking Project by Ivan Nachkov, COO at Trinity Capital
NAME OF PROJECT: XOPark Sofia Retail Park DEVELOPER: MCK AD OWNER: Trinity Capital AD
PROJECT HIGHLIGHT: A significant transformation is underway at the largest retail park in the Balkans. It has recently undergone a major extension, adding 25,000 sq m GLA to the existing 30,000 sq m. The project has just been rebranded, marking its belonging to the XOPark national retail park chain owned and managed by Trinity Capital. Reconstruction and renovation of the established part are scheduled to take place by the end of 2025.
XOPark Sofia is located in the outskirts of the capital, at the second busiest junction in Bulgaria – the intersection between A1 and A2 motorways on Sofia’s Ring Road, with 24 million vehicles per year. The existing part of the complex has been an established shopping destination since 2011. The newly opened extension boasts a diverse range of store formats: a dedicated services area, an agora-style open gathering space, smaller shops, and big boxes that create a comprehensive shopping experience. The agora is an innovative feature which encourages social interaction and community engagement, providing customers with a space to connect and relax.
While the new part of the retail park manifests modern designs and forward-thinking concepts, the existing one is not being left behind. Reconstruction and renovation are scheduled to be completed by the end of 2025. The goal is to ensure that both parts blend seamlessly, offering a unified and cohesive aesthetic that appeals to today’s consumer.
The renovation will focus on architectural unification, particularly in the facades above the pedestrian zone in front of stores, so that the transition between both parts of the park feels natural and consistent. Visitors will experience a sense of continuity while they move through the complex, as the architectural elements and design align, creating a visually harmonious atmosphere that connects the entire park.
We also prioritize improving accessibility and encouraging a leisurely pace of shopping. One of the key improvements in the reconstruction process is the upgrade of pedestrian access. A new, clear pedestrian connection has been built between the two parts, and it will be further enhanced by more plants, trees, and green spaces. More greenery will be integrated into the park’s design, contributing to a more sustainable and aesthetically pleasing environment.
XOPark Sofia’s ongoing transformation is not just about creating a modern shopping destination – it’s about designing a space that is future-ready and reflective of evolving market movements. Our emphasis on community engagement positions it as a forward-thinking model for retail parks across the region. XOPark Sofia will undoubtedly become more than just a place to shop. It will be a hub of activity, a space that promotes connection, leisure, and an immaculate integration of retail with everyday life.
By the time the final touches are put on the project in late 2025, XOPark Sofia will have transformed into a vibrant, dynamic space that caters to the needs of today’s shoppers and retailers.
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