Demolition Begins: Varteks Factory Makes Way for Shopping Centre

The news in Croatian

1. tvornica  (f.)
   Objekt u kojem se proizvode proizvodi, obično uz pomoć strojeva. ↩︎
2. tekstil  (m.)
   Materijal koji se koristi za izradu odjeće i drugih proizvoda od tkanine. ↩︎
3. rušiti
   Srušiti nešto tako da prestane postojati, obično građevinu. ↩︎
4. izgraditi
   Praviti ili konstruirati nešto, obično građevinu. ↩︎
5. zadržati
   Ostati pri nečemu, ne odbaciti. ↩︎
6. zdanje  (n.)
   Velika i značajna građevina ili zgrada. ↩︎

Translation

Text comprehension

Question 1: Why was the Varteks factory closed?

Question 2: What will remain at the site due to its historical importance?

Vocabulary

Croatian	English
tvornica  (f.)	factory
tekstil  (m.)	textile
rušiti	demolish
izgraditi	build
zadržati	retain
zdanje  (n.)	building

Read the full story

The historic Varteks textile factory in Varaždin is undergoing a transformation as demolition has commenced to clear the way for the construction of the new S-PARK retail centre. This marks the end of over a century of industrial activity at this site, which was once a significant part of Croatian industry.

Varteks, established in 1918, reached its peak as one of Croatia’s most notable textile manufacturers, employing nearly 12,000 workers and operating over 180 stores across the former Yugoslavia. However, the liberalisation of markets and the inundation of imported textiles led to severe downturns in the domestic textile sector, with Varteks eventually succumbing to these pressures while attempting numerous restructurings.

The factory, which still holds sentimental value for many, filed for bankruptcy last year following prolonged financial difficulties, including a 60-day account freeze that halted operations. The decision to dismantle the factory was driven by the need to settle debts through the sale of its valuable property.

The upcoming S-PARK shopping centre represents a €28 million investment by SES Spar European Shopping Centers and is expected to open by 2027. It will host a variety of retail outlets and amenities, including a hypermarket, dining facilities, and ample parking spaces, catering to the modern needs of consumers.

While most of the factory buildings will be demolished, seven structures recognised as industrial cultural heritage, including the historical management building and the city’s old electricity plant, will be preserved. These elements are to be integrated into the new complex, ensuring that the site retains a connection to its historical roots.

Reflecting on the site’s legacy, residents recall Varteks as not just a place of employment but also a community cornerstone, affecting many generations who found livelihood and identity within its confines. As the heavy machinery moves in, it symbolises the final chapter for this industrial giant, now bowing to the demands of contemporary commercial ventures.

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