A pioneer among shopping centers in the Wielkopolska region, ETC Swarzędz, is celebrating 30 years of operations this year. The center debuted on the market in 1994, and 12 years later—thanks to Capital Park Group and Akron Group—underwent a transformation, becoming not only a place for shopping but also a hub of community life. Since its reopening, ETC Swarzędz has welcomed more than 15 million customers.
ETC Swarzędz opened in 1994 as one of the first shopping centers in the Wielkopolska region. A milestone in the history of the site was its modernization. In 2016, through the cooperation of Capital Park Group and Akron Group, ETC Swarzędz underwent a comprehensive redevelopment, the main objective of which was to roof three separately operating halls and combine them into a single building. The center gained a new façade and comfortable, air-conditioned interiors. It was also at that time that a new dining zone was created.
“When we decided to acquire ETC, we knew it was a center with a history and an important role within the local community. Over time, however, the mall ceased to meet the needs of the modern retail world, which is why we set ourselves the goal of adapting it to current market trends—and we succeeded. This major, 13-month modernization made it possible to expand the retail and service offer and to create space for organizing events for our customers. Today, ETC meets all everyday shopping needs, offers a tenant mix typical of convenience centers, and over 30 years of operation has built a dominant position east of Poznań,”
says Marcin Juszczyk, Managing Partner at Capital Park.
The grand reopening of the mall—with an enhanced fashion and service offer—took place on 7 October 2017. Today, ETC comprises 20,886 sqm of space, with an occupancy rate exceeding 90%. Over the years, the center’s offer has been shaped by the most recognized and popular brands, including Intermarché, Reserved, Top Secret, RTV Euro AGD, CCC, Deichmann, Home & You, KIK, Dealz, 4F, Sinsay, Empik, Pepco, Smyk, Rossmann, Martes Sport, Kids OK, Maxi Zoo, YES, Diverse and Big Star, as well as local entrepreneurs.
“For 30 years, ETC Swarzędz has been continuously developing, adapting to changing customer needs and market trends while maintaining its ecological and social values. It is an example of how a shopping center can evolve and remain an important element of the urban fabric over the years, contributing to its development at the same time. We are pleased to have played a part in this journey,”
says Stefan Ausch, Managing Partner at Akron Group.
ETC Swarzędz not only ensures comfortable shopping, but also actively addresses social and environmental aspects. The center was awarded the BREEAM In-Use certificate at the Excellent level in April this year. ESG-related initiatives implemented by the center include electricity savings, reduction of heat consumption, water conservation and waste segregation—both in public areas and in the technical zones of the facility. An insect hotel is also located in the parking area. ETC regularly organizes educational pro-environmental initiatives and actively supports local animal protection organizations. It has also “adopted” a Nile goose at the Poznań Zoological Garden.
Through its initiatives, ETC seeks to inspire local residents. As part of its activities, the center hosts workshops, children’s activities and competitions with prizes, as well as shows and workshops dedicated to adults. The shopping center regularly engages in community initiatives, also in cooperation with local authorities—hosting blood donation drives, free mammography screenings and animal charity collections. Customers and the local community regularly take part in events such as spring ecological workshops, attractions prepared for Children’s Day, back-to-school activities and holiday events. Since its reopening, ETC Swarzędz has welcomed more than 15 million visitors, or approximately 2.3 million guests annually, confirming its sustained popularity.
Strategically located along the route connecting Poznań and Warsaw, the center offers easy access for residents of Swarzędz and surrounding towns, as well as numerous amenities. Designed with customer comfort in mind, ETC features a dining zone, a children’s playground, relaxation areas, free parking for over 1,000 vehicles, bicycle racks and a self-service bicycle repair station. The facility is fully adapted to the needs of families with children and people with reduced mobility.