Kropotkin, Krasnodar, an American dream

[bizboy]

In the midst of general economic slowdown and the erosion of Russia’s once booming real estate market, there still are daredevil entrepreneurs. They still see the potential in Russia’s regions but understand the enormous risks they face in order to realize their dreams.

Bruce Talley is an American entrepreneur who is focusing on smaller towns in Russia’s South. He recently spoke to Marchmont about his vision for the town of Kropotkin in Krasnodar Region.

An American in Kropotkin

Kropotkin is a typical town on the Kuban River in Russia’s “peripheryâ€. It’s like many successful small regional towns that grew rapidly during the years of the country’s economic boom.

Strategically situated at the junctions of the Moscow–Baku and Stavropol–Krasnodar highways, it’s been a second home for Bruce Talley, one of a small number of American nationals that have been doing business and living in Russia for years.

Hamburger crusade

One of his concepts is a new hamburger chain for Kropotkin and the entire Krasnodar regional market. In his interview with Marchmont, Mr. Talley said that a business plan and an investment proposal had already been prepared and submitted to potential investors.

“Ideally, I would like to develop and promote my own hamburger brand and team up with a Russian investor. Another possibility is inking a franchise deal with a U. S. company to bring their substantial expertise to the table,†he said.

Tired of shopping 140 km away

Talley’s other dream is to build Kropotkin’s first shopping mall, a modest three-story 3,400 sq. meter plaza.

With a growing population still under 100,000, Kropotkin has been enjoying many economic advantages that the town’s good location brings except one: it has stunningly little retail space and no sizable shopping centers. For anything beyond basic kiosk shopping, Kropotkin’s residents often have to travel to Krasnodar, a long 140 km trip.

Mr. Talley sees his shopping center not only serving the local population, but another 100,000 people who live in the surrounding area. With more selection and better quality goods, he feels his center will be a mecca for shoppers who are starved for choice and convenience.

Most of the preparatory work has been done, he told Marchmont, including market research, geological studies and negotiations with prospective tenants and potential investors. The businessman is now in final stages of securing government permits.

“I am confidentâ€

When asked by Marchmont whether or not the financial crisis would put a brake on his plans, Mr. Talley responded assertively that his shopping center project would continue, no matter what. “The town of Kropotkin provides a perfect place to develop a fast food chain and a shopping mall. Both are obviously in demand and the fact that other retailers are sniffing out similar opportunities is proof enough that despite the risk, the reward is worth it.â€

MarchmontNews.com |

 

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