This week, we visited a former concrete factory in Montenegro. The owners of this site are aiming to develop it into a construction cluster. Currently, the factory premises host a metal construction manufacturer and a production of PVC & Aluminium windows.
A thematic cluster optimizes communication, logistics, and pricing. The concept of a cluster is appealing because it brings together companies with shared interests. This reduces logistics costs and delivery times, fosters relationships with suppliers and distributors, and encourages new collaborations and the implementation of innovative technologies.
We assessed this site's suitability for hosting a workshop for manufacturing modular panels, panel houses, and modules.
Location: ZATON is situated in an official business zone and in the heart of a region with a population of approximately 140,000 people, between the two largest towns in northern Montenegro - Bijelo Polje (46,051 inhabitants) and Berane (33,970 inhabitants).
A new company in this business zone may be eligible for tax benefits (this option should be further verified) for the first 8 years of operation, up to a maximum amount of 200,000 euros.
Bijelo Polje is a border town with a customs terminal. Export cargo clearance can be completed even before loading onto transport.
EU duty-free import is possible through an expedited process for obtaining the Euro1 customs certificate.
Salaries in the region start from 550 euros net, with a payroll tax of 120 euros and up. This allows for lowering the cost of goods produced. On average across Europe, the cost of materials and labor are approximately equal.
The ongoing construction of the Bar-Belgrade highway passes a few kilometres from ZATON, providing access to European highways:
The Port of Bar is 170 km away - offering the opportunity to ship products worldwide by sea.
The border with Serbia is 30 km away - providing access to a rapidly growing local market.
The border with Hungary is 519 km away - offering access to Western Europe.
The border with Bulgaria is 398 km away - providing access to Southeastern Europe.
Facilities:
The main building with a ceiling height of 12 meters is ideal for manufacturing modular constructions.
A 12-ton crane allows for quick loading and unloading of materials.
A 4-ton forklift is available for internal transport and material handling.
Gates with a width of 4 meters and a height of 4.5 meters allow for the transportation of modular houses, with the possibility of gate expansion.
The total area is 7000 square meters, with the option for partial rental.
Rental rates are approximately 2.5 euros per square meter.
Concrete floors require grinding and anti-dust coating.
Dust removal and painting of walls are necessary.
Additionally, "Made in Montenegro" sounds much more appealing and romantic than "Product from Romania or Serbia."