Despite the COVID-19 pandemic and the introduction of hybrid working, the office market in Sofia has been developing extensively in recent years. Demand continues to increase, mainly due to IT and outsourcing sector representatives, and supply still cannot fully meet it. However, property developers in regional markets are still exercising caution when initiating new investments. These are some of the main conclusions of Colliers' latest report on offices in regional cities in Bulgaria.

Brokers report a 30% drop in inquiries for purchasing a new home in Sofia. On an annual basis, the decrease in concluded deals is 15 %.

In 2023, the residential real estate market in Bulgaria is expected to remain calmer and more balanced than during the dynamic previous year. According to real estate agency Arco Real Estate, the forecast is for a slight cooling of interest due to factors such as inflation, the change, and the rise in mortgage rates, as well as the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Bulgaria, with its growing economy and increasing consumer spending, has witnessed a recent surge in the construction of retail parks across the country. A total of 13 projects are under active construction and another 9 are at different stages of planning. The outlook for the retail park market in Bulgaria over the next year is positive, according to the latest report by Colliers.

Danish retailer JYSK announced the opening of six new stores in Bulgaria by August 2023, along with the renovation of five existing branches

Slight growth in logistics and retail space rents, despite no new mall expansion or openings being planned. These are the trends for the beginning of 2023, according to the latest report from Cushman & Wakefield Forton.

The first hostel with sleeping capsules has opened in Sofia. Green Cube is a low-budget hostel, which design follows the model of the unique Japanese lodgings with miniature rooms with individual sleeping capsules. The hostel is located next to the central railway and bus station of Sofia.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced the opening of Secrets Sunny Beach Resort & Spa, Dreams Sunny Beach Resort & Spa, AluaSun Helios Beach and Alua Helios Bay, representing the entry of the Inclusive Collection, part of World of Hyatt, into a third European country, complementing the existing presence of Hyatt’s all-inclusive resort brands in Spain and Greece. 

SOF Connect, the operator of Sofia Airport, announced its plans for accelerated investment in Sofia Airport by the end of 2025. More than €50 million annually will be invested in the expansion of the airport in the next three years. This will increase to €60 million or two-thirds more than what is stipulated in the concession contract.

The largest office complex in Central and Eastern Europe – Business Park Sofia, started its long-term transformation into a greener and more active urban space that offers complete experiences, recreation, and culture to its residents and guests.