Ermes Transfers ERA Department Stores for Strategic Realignment

by News Editor

May 9, 2025

In a strategic move aimed at restructuring and shedding non-profitable divisions, Ermes Department Stores Plc has announced the transfer of its ERA department stores to Gencom Ltd for a nominal price of €1. While such a figure might raise eyebrows, it aligns with Ermes’ broader objectives of streamlining operations and managing financial sustainability, given the stores report a loss of €1.3 million for 2024.

The deal, pending approval from Cyprus’ Competition Protection Commission, requires Gencom to take on long-term lease contracts and approximately €4.5 million in pending orders for the Spring/Summer 2025 season.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Transferring staff and assets like fixtures and the UNIQUE customer loyalty program ensures a smooth transition. Ermes will maintain a supporting role until late 2025.

Expected to realize a €1 million accounting profit due to IFRS 16 compliance, the transaction should benefit the CTC Group and its shareholders without impacting essential managerial interests. With such strategic shifts, the economic landscape of Cyprus continues to evolve. For more insights on Cyprus’ dynamic markets, read our financial overview.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

The Rocks Project Advances Through Licensing Process In Pentakomo

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

June 5, 2026

Overview Of The Ambitious Development

A large tourism development in Pentakomo is moving through the licensing process. Known as The Rocks Project, the proposal includes a hotel, villas, apartments and a beach club along the coast east of Limassol.

Strategic Location And Broader Impact

Located along the coastal corridor between Limassol and Zygi, the project would form part of the wider Governor’s Beach area. The site is situated near several state and energy infrastructure facilities, including the Evangelos Florakis Naval Base in Mari, making it subject to additional planning and regulatory considerations.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Master Plan And Key Infrastructure

Situated within the administrative boundaries of Pentakomo, the development is planned for the coastal area of Argaki Tou Mavrou. The project is being promoted by DRL5COMOS Properties Ltd and is supported by an environmental impact assessment prepared by P. Nikolaidis & Associates Ltd. The assessment is available for public consultation until July 3, 2026.

According to the master plan, operations are expected to begin in 2029. Plans include a 14,000-square-metre hotel with 126 rooms, a 900-square-metre spa and wellness centre, restaurants and dining facilities, 26 villas, 73 apartments and penthouses, and a 1,050-square-metre beach club with indoor and outdoor leisure areas. Parking facilities for 240 vehicles are also included in the proposal.

Integration With The Existing Landscape

The development plan allocates 12% of the site to public green space and includes an internal road network. Project documents indicate that several existing structures, including the Kalymnos Fish Tavern and current beach facilities, would be demolished as part of the redevelopment.

Regulatory And Institutional Considerations

The licensing process is ongoing and includes consultations with relevant local and government authorities. Comments submitted by the Ministry of Defence have not been made public due to the site’s proximity to the naval base. Those observations are expected to be reviewed by the environmental impact assessment committee during closed sessions.

Conclusion

With its carefully structured vision and strategic positioning, The Rocks Project promises to be a significant catalyst for economic and social growth in eastern Limassol. As it advances through the regulatory process, stakeholders remain focused on ensuring that this landmark development meets the highest standards of design, sustainability, and community integration.

Breaking news