Bulgaria’s leading supermarket chain, FANTASTICO GROUP, has recently expanded its logistics center near the town of Elin Pelin, following an investment of BGN 36 million. Covering an area of approximately 36,000 sqm, this modern facility holds strategic importance for the company’s growth. This expansion will optimize the supply chain process and facilitate the development of FANTASTICO in new markets.
The logistics center includes new warehouse areas equipped with temperature-controlled storage capabilities. Each zone is customized to meet the specific needs of various product categories, providing optimal conditions for maintain freshness. The facility offers six temperature modes, ranging from 12⁰С above zero to -24⁰С sub-zero.
For the construction of the industrial refrigeration system within logistics center, the company has partnered with leading international experts. Eckert & Partners are handling the design, while GEA Refrigeration is in charge of implementation. Operating on the cascade principle, the installation guarantees energy efficiency with full waste heat recovery. Oversight of the system’s performance is managed from three locations – on-site at the logistics center, through a specialized unit in Sofia, and by the facility supplier.
78 hydraulic ramps are available to handle the increased volume of foods, reaching between 150-200 tons per day. This upgrade will significantly reduce the time it takes from order placements to delivery at the chain’s supermarkets, along with a decrease in the number of vehicles required for urban deliveries, reducing environmental impact.
The building is equipped with a Building Management System, overseeing and managing the functionality of all on-site systems.
A key part of the project involves the construction of FANTASTICO’S GROUP largest photovoltaic system to date, with an installed capacity of 980 kWp. This system will generate electricity for internal consumption. Prior to this installation, the company had 12 photovoltaic systems. With this addition,the total installed capacity for the production of the company’s own green energy now exceeds 2.5 MWp.
The lead designer for the expansion of the warehouse base is IPA, with the main contractor being Barage Group.
