BALFIN Group - a well-known and diversified investment group in the Western Balkans, founded by entrepreneur Samir Mane - has entered into a strategic partnership with the French fashion brand KIABI, which is differentiated by its high-quality clothing and reasonable prices. The agreement marks an important step for BALFIN Group, as it strengthens its presence in the retail sector, while introducing the internationally renowned KIABI brand to countries such as Albania, North Macedonia, Montenegro and Kosovo. Through this agreement, KIABI will open its first store in Albania, with further expansion plans in neighboring countries.
The aim is to offer a wide range of sustainable and high-quality products at competitive prices, to improve the shopping experience for customers, and to offer families a single fashion destination. Kiabi is part of the large French Mulliez Group, which is led by the Mulliez family and owns well-known brands such as Decathlon, Auchan, Leroy Merlin, Boulanger, Midas, Jules, Oney, as well as many other, equally well-known brands. KIABI is a prominent French brand and its unique concept, it must be said, is conquering the international market. Our approach to prices, undisputed style, sustainability, but also our extensive experience in online shopping, makes us truly unique. Today, our growth challenges take us to every country where there are families.
We aim to develop partnerships of all kinds and across all channels, to reach as many families as possible. KIABI is a local retailer that aims to 'make life easier for families', adapting to every urban and rural area, and bringing sustainable collections and solutions”, says Francois Haimez, International Director of KIABI. Julian Mane, Vice President of the retail sector at the BALFIN Group, emphasizes:
"This agreement marks the beginning of an exciting journey, starting with the opening of KIABI's first store in Albania, and continuing with wider regional expansion. While we understand that there will be challenges ahead, we are confident that, together with KIABI, we will be able to meet them. Our vision is to grow strategically in capitals and key cities, working tirelessly to meet and exceed the expectations of our customers and partners."
Fashion Group Albania, one of the BALFIN Group companies, has played an important role in leading the negotiations between the group and KIABI. The partnership between KIABI and BALFIN Group comes at a time when there is a growing demand from families in the region for affordable fashion. This collaboration aims to meet this demand, while also contributing to the creation of over 400 jobs, and consequently, to stimulating local economic development. Furthermore, KIABI's commitment to
sustainability, high-quality products, and satisfied customers strengthens its position as a leading brand in the affordable fashion sector.
About KIABI
Founded in 1978 in the north of France, KIABI is the leading fashion brand for standard clothing, and is well-loved by families. It has a network of 640 points in 33 countries and generates sales of 2.5 billion euros (+5% compared to 2023). KIABI brings together almost 10,000 employees of 83 nationalities. While remaining true to its DNA of affordable fashion, the brand is transforming itself to offer everyone a more sustainable lifestyle.
This commitment is based on the use of materials with the lowest environmental impact; materials used for durability and time-resistant clothing, as well as solidarity initiatives supported by the KIABI Foundation. A collective commitment that has brought together employees, partners and families for almost 50 years. For more information, visit www.kiabi.com
About BALFIN Group
BALFIN Group is one of the most successful and influential investment groups in the Western Balkans, with total assets of EUR 2.8 billion by 2024, and a workforce of over 5,500 employees. Founded in 1993 in Vienna by Mr. Samir Mane, the group operates in Austria, Albania, Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Canada, North Macedonia, the Netherlands, Montenegro, Croatia, Switzerland and the USA. With a diversified portfolio in industries such as real estate, retail and wholesale, banking, tourism, energy and logistics, BALFIN Group has positioned itself as a
reliable partner for many international companies and financial institutions.
The group's dedication to economic development, innovation and social responsibility has consolidated its role as a driving force for positive change in the region. As part of a long-term commitment to social responsibility, since 2023, the Group's philanthropic initiatives have been consolidated under the establishment of the Mane Foundation, a platform dedicated to empowering communities, advancing education and supporting inclusive development in all countries where the BALFIN Group operates.
