Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena Bansko Reopening for an Unforgettable Summer Season

After remarkable winter season and its traditional beauty sleep Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena Bansko is delighted to announce its reopening for the summer season. Nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Pirin Mountains, Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena Bansko is ready to welcome guests for an unforgettable summer getaway filled with luxury, relaxation, and adventure.

As the premier destination for discerning travelers seeking unparalleled hospitality and world-class amenities, Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena Bansko is dedicated to providing an exceptional experience for its guests. From families seeking a memorable vacation to couples looking for a romantic escape, the hotel offers a wide range of luxurious accommodations and personalized services to cater to every need and preference.

With the arrival of the summer season, guests can look forward to indulging in a myriad of exciting activities and experiences. From hiking and mountain biking amidst the stunning landscapes of the Pirin National Park to exploring the charming town of Bansko with its rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Guests can unwind and rejuvenate their senses with a variety of relaxing treatments and therapies, including massages, facials, and holistic rituals, all designed to promote inner harmony and well-being.

For those seeking culinary delights, Come Prima restaurant offers an array of exquisite dining options sure to tantalize the taste buds. From gourmet international cuisine to traditional Bulgarian specialties, guests can savor a culinary journey like no other, prepared by the hotel’s team of talented chefs who work alongside with three-stars Michelin Chefs using the finest locally sourced ingredients.

For reservations and more information, please visit this link orcontact reservations.grandarena@kempinski.com

The first quarter of 2024 has seen notable developments in Sofia’s office market. The total speculative stock has increased to 2.127 million sq.m. with transaction volumes reaching 33,721 sq.m. Despite a 20% drop compared to previous periods, the overall vacancy rate slightly decreased to 17.13%.

New construction permits for 40,000 sq.m. of modern office space were issued, and 219,808 sq.m. are currently under construction. The expected office space deliveries for the next three years are 102,640 sq.m. in 2024, 93,116 sq.m. in 2025, and 24,052 sq.m. in 2026.

Hladilnika continues to be a hotspot, accounting for 34% of all leases signed. Class A office space saw a vacancy rate decrease to 16.99%, while Class B experienced an increase to 17.34%.

Noteworthy transactions include the lease re-gear of more than 6,000 sq.m. for Chaos, advised by Avalant.

For more detailed insights see the file down below or visit their website.

On 30 May, we had the pleasure to host our Meet the Members Rooftop Edition over networking wine in the charming setting of Kitchen59.

In accordance with our tradition, new members presented themselves in front of the BBBA community. Guests also had the chance to hear about new developments from members who have been with us for a while. After the short presentations, our old and new members and friends had the chance to enjoy a productive business networking session over wine.

We would like to express our thanks to all of our guests for joining us and to our gracious host, Kitchen59, and our annual Meet the Members sponsor, DXC Technology.

A heartfelt thanks to our partners for making the evening unforgettable, and special thanks to Athlon for sponsoring the event.

At the link, you can find pictures from the event.

Below is the list of the presenting companies: 

• AgilePool
  
• AllDental Clinics
• Ampeco
• ARS Bulgaria
• Athlon
• British Council Bulgaria
• CMS Sofia Lawyer’s Partnership
• Conversion Century 
• DXC Technology
• Giftpoint Europe
• My Synergy
• Roy Hill
• Toncheva & Partners Law Firm
• WealthLock
  

From May 25, 2024, with the traditional celebration of the World Thyroid Day and the start of the International Thyroid Week (May 25-31), the Association of Thyroid Disease Sufferers VIOM, in partnership with Synevo Medical Laboratories and with the support of MERK Bulgaria, announces the start of the campaign “Raise a shield for your health! Get your thyroid checked!”.



As part of the campaign, during 5 days in the month of June, free ultrasound examinations of the thyroid gland and consultations with an endocrinologist will be held at various Synevo locations in the cities of Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna and Burgas.



Learn more about the initiatives and book your spot for a free thyroid examination here.

On 30th of May, the British Embassy in Sofia will gather representatives from the Bulgarian public and private sector to celebrate the launch of the ‘Treasures of Bulgaria’ film by British historian and TV presenter, Professor Bettany Hughes. The Embassy is proud to have supported the project since its inception. The film, part of the Treasures of the World series, examines Bulgaria’s rich and vibrant history and culture. In Varna, Professor Hughes explores a 6,000-year-old gold treasure hoard – which includes the oldest gold artefacts ever discovered, revealing the everyday lives of the people who forged one of Europe’s first cultures. With expert access to the Valley of the Thracian Kings, Bettany enters a 2300-year-old UNESCO world heritage tomb adorned with breathtaking frescos. Experiencing a fire ritual in the village of Kosti and witnessing how the Pomak community paint the faces of their brides in Ribnovo, Bettany finds how many ancient traditions still endure in Bulgaria. 

At the lost Greek settlement of Heraclea Sintica she finds traces of the town’s sanctuaries, shops, a townhall, a Basilica and an ancient sanctuary for the Goddess Nemesis. Bettany’s journey also takes her to the Buzludzha Monument, a Communist era relic representing the tension between the pain of remembering the past and the danger of forgetting its lessons.

Commenting on the film, Ambassador Rob Dixon said: 

‘I think the Treasures of Bulgaria has real value in enabling this remarkable country to expand beyond more-traditional beach and ski tourism and appeal to those interested in nature, history, and the mosaic of cultural influences and customs that are so well preserved and continue to live in modern day Bulgaria. For me personally, as I come nearer to the end of my four years as British Ambassador to Bulgaria, the memories of exploring this beautiful country, its rich history and stunning nature, with my friends and family are something that I will cherish forever.’

Professor Bettany Hughes said: 

‘It’s been a wonderful pleasure and a privilege to make Treasures of the World – Bulgaria and to experience this country’s rich culture and history. The SandStone Global team is delighted to be back in Bulgaria filming other treasures to share with our UK and global audiences who have so loved SandStone Global’s first film and who are insisting we make more. I’d like to thank everyone involved for making the first two Treasures of Bulgaria films possible and look forward to more unforgettable times in this beautiful country and to future exciting projects.’

The Embassy has been working with a wide range of partners, including the Ministries of Tourism and Culture to encourage further people-to-people links between Bulgaria and the UK. These efforts were reflected in the signing of a Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership between UK and Bulgaria in October last year.

On May 28, 2024, the first-ever “Buy Social – Corporate Procurement from Social Enterprises” event in Bulgaria took place, bringing together social and traditional enterprises to foster business relationships and promote B2B interactions. The event was organized by the BCause Foundation in partnership with the British Bulgarian Business Association (BBBA) and is part of the BuySocial B2B Europe project. Held at the “Resonator” hall, the event invited 10 social enterprises and NGOs to showcase a diverse range of goods and services that Bulgarian companies can benefit from.

More and more organisations are turning to the market to ensure the sustainability and visibility of their causes. They understand that the most valuable help for the people they work with is when the beneficiaries of social services can get involved, express themselves, and develop their skills.

The “Buy Social – Corporate Procurement from Social Enterprises” event provided an opportunity for organizations to demonstrate that disadvantaged individuals not only seek and expect assistance but also have qualities, are eager to work, make efforts, and are ready to offer competitive goods and services to corporate clients.

Company representatives were impressed by the professionalism and variety of goods and services offered by the social enterprises. They were pleased to learn that by purchasing corporate gifts, organizing training sessions, or team-building events for their employees, they could support significant social or environmental causes.

Almost all organisations participating in the event offer handmade souvenirs as gifts for companies’ clients and employees. More interestingly, each organization offers the chance to participate in their activities and product-making—a unique opportunity to express yourself, meet the people behind the mission, and experience an unconventional and exciting team-building event. After the presentations, participants mingled, explored the beautiful souvenirs, and learned more about the training and activities offered for employees. We eagerly await news of the partnerships that will be formed and realized.

Both companies and organisations shared that there is a great need for such gatherings and would gladly attend again.

BCause Foundation, through its Rinker Center, has been working for 10 years to develop the ecosystem of traditional and social entrepreneurship in Bulgaria. “Professionalizing the work of NGOs towards developing social entrepreneurship is a key part of our work. The combination of an authentic cause and a working business model is the foundation for creating a stable ecosystem. The next logical step is expanding market opportunities and users of their services and products. The Buy Social movement is quickly gaining popularity across Europe—we believe that Bulgaria has its clear place and potential for development.

In the coming months, we will provide capacity-building training for both social enterprises and businesses on this topic, as well as organize more such meetings to respond to the created interest and attract more supporters,” said Penka Tsvetkova, Director of Business Development and International Relations at the BCause Foundation.

Organizations Presenting Their Services and Products at the First “Buy Social – Corporate Procurement from Social Enterprises” Edition:

• Maria’s World Foundation supports people with mental disabilities. They offer professional catering, corporate gifts, and spices from their new organic garden.
• Stanimira Chocolate House produces fine handmade chocolate crafted by disadvantaged individuals.
• Concordia Foundation provides first jobs to young people in their candle and pottery workshops, hair salon, and hot food kitchen.
• Biodiversity Foundation focuses on environmental protection, offering a variety of gifts and new knowledge through entertainment—board games, escape rooms, and nature walks.
• Puls Foundation helps women who have experienced violence create beautiful souvenirs as part of their recovery therapy.
• Dream House- social enterprises for Ukrainian women unites Ukrainian women living in Bulgaria to create the social workshop “House for Small and Big Dreams,” where each woman can participate in making various products and souvenirs.
• Ela i Ti Foundation aims to make the world and nature accessible to people with disabilities, offering glass products and team-building activities for companies.
• Residence Baba cares for elderly people in villages and presented socks and products knitted by women in villages, their recipes, as well as village experiences and team-building activities.
• Emprove Foundation supports women who have experienced violence, offering corporate training on violence prevention in the workplace.
• Mom got a job Foundation offers corporate training for managers and HR professionals to improve working conditions for mothers.

The “Buy Social – Corporate Procurement from Social Enterprises” event is part of the BuySocial B2B Europe project, which unites 23 organizations in 17 European countries. BCause Foundation is the Bulgarian partner in the project, which aims to build and enhance the capacity of both social enterprises and traditional businesses to boost the development of social procurement—promoting trade relationships.

Learn more about the initiative and join the European and global Buy Social Europe B2B movement today as a social enterprise, traditional enterprise, funding organization, or national/international social enterprise network here.   

*Disclaimer 

Buy Social Europe B2B is co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. Buy Social Europe B2B, is further co-funded by SAP, and participating partners in the Buy Social Europe B2B consortium.

A five-point plan for immediate action by the new government is at heart of the British Chambers of Commerce Election Manifesto published today.  

The BCC wants to see:     

• An Industrial Strategy with green innovation at its heart. 
• Better skills planning, bringing businesses and training providers together. 
• Business rates reform to encourage growth and investment. 
• Improved relations with the European Union to cut the costs for business.
• A Government appointed AI champion for SMEs to spearhead uptake of new technology. 

The five-point plan is part of the BCC’s ‘Future of the Economy’ manifesto. The manifesto includes the biggest ideas from a series of extensive policy documents published this year, focusing on the key economic challenges identified by the BCC. The challenges are: Green Innovation, People and Work, Local Economies of the Future, Global Britain and the Digital Revolution. 

The manifesto has been brought together after extensive consultation with the Chamber network, the BCC’s Business Council, external stakeholders, and academics.  

Baroness Martha Lane Fox, President of the BCC said: 

“In the frenzy of the election campaign, it’s crucial that all politicians focus on the power of British business.  

“As I travel across the UK meeting Chambers and their businesses, I hear amazing stories of people determined to grow their businesses and make a difference in our remarkable country. But time and again businesses tell me they want to see a long-term vision for the economy.” 

“Our manifesto showcases practical ideas on how politicians can help companies successfully navigate the challenges and opportunities our economy faces. It’s a blueprint for boosting productivity and a pathway to higher growth.  

“Whichever party is in power after July 4th the immediate focus must be on implementing our five-point-plan for business. The stakes for business from the next government could not be higher.” 

Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the BCC said:  

“A General Election is an important time for our country, our economy, and our businesses. 

“The companies we represent are the drivers of economic growth and the employers of millions of people. They need to know that politicians have got their back. Once the votes are counted – we want government to know how to help business. Our five-point-plan is clear.  

“As companies play their part in the UK’s net-zero journey, we desperately need an industrial strategy with green innovation at its heart.  

“Firms are constantly telling us they can’t get the skills they need. We need better strategic planning on skills that helps business and training providers work together.  

“In local communities, firms are crying out for a fairer business rates system. Over a quarter (26%) of companies told us earlier this year they’d changed plans to upgrade or open premises because of the system.  

“The EU is the UK’s biggest market, so we urgently need to get a better trading relationship with our closet neighbour. It’s not about rewriting the referendum result, it’s about cutting red-tape and promoting trade.  

“The world of AI has huge potential to boost economic productivity. But it’s important that SMEs aren’t left behind, or vulnerable, as new technology accelerates. A Government appointed AI champion will help spearhead a boost in AI uptake by SMEs.  

“We believe our 5-point plan creates an immediate pathway for a new government, of whatever party, to help businesses succeed. When business succeeds, the country succeeds.” 

Project on Point is a blog created by our member Catherine Hadjiiska that offers short but insightful interviews with leading experts on project and product management alongside articles reflecting her own 5+ years of experience as a PM and Agile Coach. 

In the first interview, Daniela Tsoneva, a VC investor, shares her thoughts on investment, product and team development in the healthcare and SaaS sectors.

• Located in the Business Park Sofia complex in the Mladost district, the new branch will share space with Fortune 500 multinationals operating in the Central and Eastern European region.
• The opening will take place in September, in the framework of the new school year, and is part of the expansion plan for the region.
• The new centre compliments the portfolio of English language and exam preparation classes for children, teenagers and adults that the institution has been offering to date at its historic location at 7 Krakra Street and its offsite St George International School & Preschool.

The British Council, the UK’s organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities, will open its second education centre in the Bulgarian capital in September, within the context of the start of the new school year. Located in the Business Park Sofia complex in the Mladost district, the new branch will be co-located with 75% of the Fortune 500 multinationals operating in Central and Eastern Europe.

The opening is part of the British Council’s expansion plan for this region and is intended to bring its educational offer closer to Sofians, in the location chosen by the students themselves in the quality surveys.

‘We have been observing an increasing demand for in-person learning in Sofia, especially for younger aged children. Over the past year, Bulgaria was the second fastest growing teaching operation, in the entire global British Council network’, observes Olga Sokolova, Cluster Business Manager for the British Council in Bulgaria, Georgia, Romania, and Ukraine.

Located in one of Sofia’s most modern, developed and easily accessible areas, British Council Business Park Sofia will offer the institution’s full portfolio of English language and exam preparation classes. Learning Time with Timmy classes for the youngest, and Primary and Secondary Plus classes for Primary and Secondary students will make up the offer for children and teenagers.

Adults will have access to General English programmes (from beginner to proficiency level), Business English courses and training, and Cambridge and IELTS exam preparation classes. Those interested in finding out more about what the new teaching centre offers, can contact the British Council at contact@britishcouncil.bg.

The operator of public charging infrastructure for electric vehicles, Eldrive, is starting to build large electric vehicle charging parks at its own locations with a rich ecosystem. The first such site is already under construction in Lithuania, where it will be able to charge 20 electric vehicles simultaneously, with charging points to be increased to 40 in the second phase. The project includes charging infrastructure for electric buses and trucks. The power of the stations will range between 200 and 400 kW DC, and the completion and commissioning of the charging park is expected by the end of this year. In addition to the charging stations, the location will feature a café, shops, and accompanying infrastructure to provide all necessary amenities for users on-site. Eldrive plans to build many such parks in all the markets it operates in – Bulgaria, Romania, and Lithuania.

More information in Bulgarian in the file below.