El Corte Inglés is preparing for one of the largest investment plans in its recent history, with a strong focus on real estate. Starting on 1 March, the group will activate a spending programme worth €650 million in the 2026-2027 financial year. This figure is part of the 2025-2030 strategic plan, which envisages total investments worth €3 billion. The aim is not only to boost business growth, but also to modernise key assets and strengthen their long-term profitability.
More than 30% of the investment planned for this financial year, around €170 million, will be specifically allocated to the refurbishment of shopping centres. This item places the renovation of buildings at the centre of the group's strategy, with a direct impact on the urban landscape. The investment effort represents a significant leap forward compared to previous years. Between 2018 and 2024, El Corte Inglés allocated between €350 million and €490 million annually to investments, so the new budget represents an increase of more than 30%.
The commitment to renovating stores goes beyond a simple commercial update. These department stores occupy strategic buildings in central areas, where housing, commerce and tourism coexist under strong real estate pressure. The modernisation of the centres seeks to reorganise spaces and make them more attractive.
The most notable renovation will be that of the El Corte Inglés centre in Princesa, Madrid, which opened in the 1970s. The group aims to update its facilities and bring its image closer to that of other recently renovated centres, such as Serrano and Castellana. The company maintains two buildings in this area, after selling a property dedicated to furniture and decoration located at Princesa 41 in 2018.
The arrival of Cristina Álvarez as president of El Corte Inglés reinforces this strategic line. Her career within the group includes extensive experience in the transformation of centres and in decisions related to real estate growth.
