In a video interview recorded at Bratislava Property Forum 2026, Felix Faehre, Director, Real Estate & Procurement at Kaufland Slovakia, explains why supermarkets continue to anchor retail schemes, how landlords should adapt to changing occupier needs and why flexibility and smaller formats will define expansion in 2026.
For retail landlords, what are the key advantages of having a supermarket as their tenant?
We are both investors and tenants, so we understand both perspectives. In today’s more challenging and uncertain environment, what we can offer is a very solid food retail concept.
We operate a full-stack retail format, including subtenants, and we have demonstrated through multiple crises, whether COVID or the war in Ukraine, that our model is resilient. We bring consistent footfall and frequency, which is critical for any retail scheme. That is why we believe we currently represent one of the strongest retail concepts in Slovakia.
How should landlords and developers adapt to better meet the needs of retail occupiers today?
There needs to be much closer cooperation between landlords and tenants to understand each other’s specific needs. It is too simplistic to assume that all food anchors have the same requirements, as each company operates differently.
Today, more than ever, everyone is focused on the customer. That means aligning on topics such as ESG, brand positioning and the overall experience delivered to visitors. This kind of alignment can only be achieved through direct dialogue and collaboration, including platforms like this forum.
What do you look for in locations and formats when expanding your store network in 2026?
We are increasingly looking at smaller and more flexible formats. This reflects a broader market trend towards adaptability, especially for large retail operators.
We are also focusing on mixed-use environments and smaller towns, where we can introduce new concepts and better respond to local demand. Flexibility and proximity to customers will be key drivers of expansion going forward.
