More Kosovo companies move their business to Albania

Kosovo companies are moving fast into Albania, closing some of the biggest deals of the year. Retail chain Viva Fresh bought SPAR Albania for €36.4 million, backed by a €25 million loan from the EBRD — the largest loan the bank has ever given to a Kosovo-based firm.

Fashion group Albi Holding followed in September, buying Fashion Group Albania for €7.6 million. In October, Kosovo’s KAN Group took over KFC Albania and now plans 20 new outlets across the country.

Data from the Bank of Albania show the trend is accelerating. Investments from Kosovo hit a record €96 million in 2024, up from €13 million in 2019. More than 580 Kosovo-owned companies now operate in Albania.

Business leaders say firms are attracted by Albania’s larger market, tourism-driven demand and more predictable conditions, while uncertainty in Kosovo pushes some investors to move operations entirely.