Architectural Olympus of Ukrainian Retail: 2025 Rating of Grocery Chains by Innovation and Design

I. Introduction: The New Face of Ukrainian Retail – Architecture as Competitive Advantage

Grocery retail in Ukraine is undergoing profound transformation. The supermarket is no longer just a utilitarian space for selling goods – architecture and design have become key competitive tools. Facade, interior, lighting, and planning shape customer experience, influence loyalty, and transform stores into communication platforms and elements of the urban environment.

Market dynamics are supported by active growth: in 2024, retail turnover exceeded 1.8 trillion UAH, and new commercial construction area grew by 54%. Retailers opened over 3,000 stores, requiring fast, efficient, and quality architectural solutions. The choice of facades, ceiling systems, or engineering structures today determines not only costs but also brand identity for years to come.

In this report, we analyze Ukrainian retail leaders through the lens of architecture and construction. The methodology is based on five pillars:

1. Architectural concept and identity
2. Innovation in solutions
3. Renovation strategy
4. Sustainable development
5. Scalability and systematic approach

To visually represent the differences in key players’ approaches, we have summarized their strategies in a comparative matrix.

Table 1: Comparative Matrix of Architectural Strategies of Ukrainian Retail Leaders

This analysis not only identifies current leaders but also reveals development vectors that will shape Ukrainian retail architecture in the coming years. It demonstrates how strategic approach to construction and design becomes a powerful competitive advantage, and the choice of reliable partners and quality materials, particularly from leading Ukrainian manufacturers like “Mehbud” factory, is key to long-term success.

II. Rating of Architectural and Construction Achievements of Ukrainian Grocery Chains

Conceptual Design from “Mehbud” for “Silpo“

“Mehbud” factory, as a leading Ukrainian manufacturer of modern architectural solutions, can offer “Silpo” tools to realize their unique philosophy, transforming standard building elements into part of an art concept.

Concept 1: “Kinetic Art” Facade. For a new thematic supermarket, we propose creating a dynamic facade using “Mehbud” facade cassettes. Through combination of cassettes of different depths, colors, and textures (matte, glossy, perforated), a “movement” effect is created. The facade changes its appearance depending on viewing angle, lighting, and time of day, transforming the building into a true kinetic art object. This solution perfectly matches Silpo’s philosophy of uniqueness for each store and its transformation into an urban landmark.

Concept 2: “Navigation River” Ceiling. In the spacious trading hall, we propose installing a complex three-dimensional ceiling from “Mehbud” cubic rails. The structure imitates a river “flowing” through the entire store, with its “channel” indicating the main customer route. LED strips integrated into the rails can change color, visually marking different product zones: for example, blue over the fish department, green over vegetables, red over meat. Thus, the ceiling transforms from a utilitarian element into an intuitively clear and aesthetically attractive navigation system.

Concept 3: “Art Installation” Fence. The area around the supermarket can also become part of the overall concept. We propose using “Mehbud” fence model “Jalousie”. The fence slats are installed at an angle, with individual perforation applied to their surface. When viewed straight on, the fence appears solid, but when moving along it, the perforated holes form a unified image or inscription related to the store’s theme. This transforms an ordinary fence into an interactive art installation that attracts passersby even when approaching the store.

ATB’s strategy demonstrates that their strength lies not in architectural uniqueness, but in unprecedented ability to replicate efficient solutions. They have transformed construction into a clearly streamlined process, optimized for speed and cost control. For any building materials supplier like “Mehbud,” entering this ecosystem is both a challenge and a huge opportunity. Success here depends not on offering unique design, but on demonstrating operational advantage. Dialogue with ATB must be conducted in the language of numbers: reducing installation time, lowering building lifecycle cost (LCC), increasing durability, and reducing maintenance costs.

Conceptual Design from “Mehbud” for “ATB“

“Mehbud” proposals for ATB should focus on improving the existing standardized model, offering higher quality and efficiency without significant complication or cost increase.

Concept 1: “Technological Reliability” Facade. We propose partial replacement of aluminum composite panels on facades with “Mehbud” metal facade cassettes in signature graphite color RAL 7011. Key advantages for ATB: flawless geometry and surface flatness thanks to high-precision manufacturing, concealed mounting system improving aesthetics, and significantly higher resistance to mechanical damage and vandalism compared to composite. This directly impacts reducing operational costs for facade repairs.

Concept 2: “Integrated Efficiency” Ceiling. For trading halls, we propose using “Mehbud” metal rail ceiling. This solution has several operational advantages: first, installation speed on large areas, reducing overall construction time. Second, easy integration of all necessary engineering systems (luminaires, sprinklers, speakers). Third, unlimited access to ceiling space for servicing communications without dismantling the entire structure. Finally, metal ceilings are non-combustible and meet strict fire safety requirements, such as REI 45 fire resistance class for overlapping structures.

Concept 3: “Secure Perimeter” Fence and Landscaping. For territory fencing and unloading zones, we propose using “Mehbud” solid metal fence model “Brus”. Horizontal slats create a strict, laconic appearance that perfectly matches the style of “black ATB”. Reliable protection (galvanized steel with polymer coating) guarantees durability without annual painting needs, while solid construction ensures high security and hides the utility area from prying eyes.

Conceptual Design from “Mehbud” for “Novus“

“Mehbud” proposals for Novus should emphasize European style, functionality, and compliance with sustainable development principles.

Concept 1: “Scandinavian Restraint” Facade. For new supermarket facades, we propose a combined solution: using “Mehbud” facade slats with high-quality coating imitating light wood texture, combined with smooth metal cassettes in matte graphite or white. This combination creates a laconic, modern, and visually “warm” appearance associated with Scandinavian design and environmental friendliness, perfectly complementing the brand’s European positioning.

Concept 2: “Clear Sky” Ceiling. For trading halls, we propose using white “Mehbud” cassette ceiling with microperforation and special acoustic backing. This solution addresses several tasks simultaneously: visually creates a clean, bright, and spacious interior; significantly improves acoustic comfort in large spaces by absorbing excess noise; allows elegant concealment of all engineering communications while maintaining sense of order.

Concept 3: “Green Infrastructure” Fence and Bike Parking. For adjacent territory landscaping, we propose installing elegant and minimalist “Mehbud” fence model “Ranch” or “Classic” in light gray. An important part of the concept is creating covered bike parking made from the same materials in unified style with the fence. This is not only a functional element but also a clear message about company support for ecological transportation and European values.

Conceptual Design from “Mehbud” for “Varus“

Solutions from “Mehbud” for Varus should reflect their dual strategy, offering different materials and styles for different formats.

Concept 1: “Dual Identity” Facade.

For “Varus Home” format: We propose using “Mehbud” facade panels and slats with coating imitating natural wood texture in warm shades. This will emphasize the concept of home coziness and environmental friendliness, making the facade “warmer” and more welcoming.

For large supermarkets (JDV concept): We propose using smooth “Mehbud” metal facade cassettes in rich signature green or deep graphite color. The perfectly flat cassette surface will be an excellent background for bright neon signs, while special cassettes with concealed niches will allow elegant integration of LED strips directly into the facade plane.

Concept 2: “Home Comfort vs. Urban Chic” Ceiling.

For “Varus Home”: We propose “Mehbud” cassette ceiling in warm cream or beige shade with matte surface. This will create soft, diffused light and maintain the overall atmosphere of coziness.

For large supermarkets: The ideal solution would be black “Mehbud” rail ceiling or grillage ceiling. Against the dark background, neon navigation signs and directed light from track luminaires will look especially effective, allowing creation of dramatic and stylish urban space atmosphere.

Concept 3: “Welcoming Border” Fence. For “Home” format stores located in residential areas, we propose low and visually “transparent” “Mehbud” fence model “Ranch” or “Classic”. It will define the territory without creating a sense of closure, supporting the idea of neighborliness and openness.

Strategic shift toward small formats opens new opportunities for Auchan but also poses new challenges. The company now needs not only solutions for giant hypermarkets, but also scalable yet stylish and quality solutions for first-floor facades, entrance groups, canopies, and signs for dozens of new “Pick Up Point” locations. These elements must be aesthetic, durable, vandal-resistant, and easily adaptable to different architectural contexts. This creates an ideal market niche for manufacturers like “Mehbud” that can offer ready modular solutions specifically designed for small format retail needs.

Conceptual Design from “Mehbud” for “Auchan“

“Mehbud” solutions for Auchan should focus on two directions: improving aesthetic appeal and functionality of new “Pick Up Points” and economically effective modernization of existing hypermarkets.

Concept 1: “Urban Chameleon” Facade for Pick Up Point. For the small format store network, we propose developing a universal modular facade system from “Mehbud”. It consists of a base frame and changeable decorative panels (cassettes or slats). This allows maintaining Auchan brand recognition through unified entrance group shape and proportions while easily adapting to any environment by changing panel color and texture according to residential complex design codes. Such a “constructor facade” is the ideal solution for rapid and quality network deployment.

Concept 2: “Industrial Loft” Ceiling for hypermarkets. For huge hypermarket trading halls where solid suspended ceiling is impractical and expensive, we propose a modern and economical solution. All exposed communications under the ceiling are painted in a unified dark (graphite or black) color. Above key functional zones (checkout, fresh zone, promo islands), “Mehbud” acoustic panel islands are locally suspended. This creates a stylish industrial loft look, significantly improves acoustic comfort in the noisiest zones, and is much cheaper than complete ceiling coverage.

Concept 3: Parking Fence and Navigation. For large hypermarket parking lots, we propose using “Mehbud” perforated metal panels. These can create not only fence sections but also tall navigation pillars and signs. Thanks to laser cutting technology, perforation can form any symbols: Auchan logo, parking row numbers, traffic direction arrows. This allows combining the utilitarian function of fencing and navigation with a powerful branding element.

This approach makes “Tavria V” a qualified and demanding customer. Working with them requires suppliers like “Mehbud” not just to sell products, but to engage in partnership dialogue at the technical specialist level. Important are not advertising brochures, but detailed technical drawings, installation consultations, readiness for custom element production, and ability to propose technical solutions that their internal team can easily and efficiently integrate into their projects.

Conceptual Design from “Mehbud” for “Tavria V“

“Mehbud” proposals for “Tavria V” should consider their regional specificity and aspiration to create modern, comfortable spaces.

Concept 1: “Odesa Modern” Facade. For store reconstruction in historic parts of Odesa, we propose an elegant facade solution. It can combine “Mehbud” facade slats in warm sandy shades with decorative metal elements imitating classic wrought iron grilles. This will allow creating a modern interpretation of traditional southern architecture, harmoniously integrating the supermarket into the urban context.

Concept 2: Ceiling for “Open Kitchen”. For visual and functional highlighting of the “open kitchen” zone, we propose using “Mehbud” metal mesh ceiling (expanded metal sheet). This solution creates a modern, slightly industrial look, doesn’t interfere with powerful ventilation and fire suppression systems mandatory for kitchen zones, and visually separates this hot spot from the rest of the trading hall.

Concept 3: Fence for “Bagetta” Summer Terraces. For creating cozy summer areas near Bagetta Espresso Bar cafes, we propose light and aesthetic “Mehbud” fence. This can be “Ranch” or “Classic” model of low height, painted in cafe signature colors. Such fencing creates comfortable, separated space for visitors without blocking views or creating a sense of confinement.

Conceptual Design from “Mehbud” for “METRO“

“Mehbud” proposals for METRO should focus on engineering advantages and complement the company’s existing energy efficiency initiatives.

Concept 1: “Energy Shield” Ventilated Facade. For existing shopping center facade modernization, we propose building cladding with “Mehbud” ventilated facade system. Unlike simple finishing, ventilated facade creates air gap between wall and cladding cassettes. This gap works as thermal buffer: in winter it reduces building heat losses, in summer – wall overheating from solar radiation. This leads to direct heating and air conditioning savings, perfectly complementing METRO’s internal energy saving initiatives.

Concept 2: “Light Reflector” Ceiling. Considering that METRO has already invested in complete LED lighting transition, the next step could be optimizing its use. We propose applying “Mehbud” cassette ceiling with special coating having high light reflection coefficient (over 85%). This allows more even and efficient light distribution from fixtures throughout the trading hall, improving shelf-level illumination without increasing lamp power, or even allowing reduction of their quantity.

Concept 3: Fence with Noise Barriers. METRO shopping center territories are characterized by intensive freight traffic and presence of powerful external units of refrigeration and ventilation systems. To improve comfort of adjacent residential areas, we propose installing “Mehbud” fence with integrated noise barrier panels around the perimeter. This effectively reduces noise pollution and demonstrates brand social responsibility to the local community.

For a national manufacturer like “Mehbud,” working with strong regional players is strategically important for sales market diversification. The proposal for “Fayno Market” should be competitively priced on one hand, while emphasizing advantages that local small manufacturers cannot provide on the other. This is, first of all, consistently high raw material quality (European steel), reliable anti-corrosion protection (zinc and polymer coating), modern design allowing the chain to visually stand out from competitors, and durability reducing long-term costs. This is an opportunity to offer a regional leader “capital quality at reasonable price.”

Conceptual Design from “Mehbud” for “Fayno Market“

“Mehbud” proposals for “Fayno Market” should be simple to implement, economically effective, and aimed at improving visual appeal and durability of their typical stores.

Concept 1: “Bright Accent” Facade. To increase recognition and modernize store exterior appearance, we propose developing a standard solution for entrance group and frieze cladding. Using “Mehbud” facade cassettes in bright chain signature color will make stores more noticeable on city streets, modern and attractive to customers. This is a relatively small investment providing significant visual effect.

Concept 2: Practical Suspended Ceiling. For finishing canopies over entrances and awnings, we propose using “Mehbud” metal suspended ceiling-soffit. Unlike plastic siding or simply painted concrete, this solution is significantly more durable, aesthetic, and vandal-resistant. It doesn’t fade in sun, doesn’t crack from frost, and doesn’t require repair and painting for decades, which is direct savings on operational costs.

Concept 3: Reliable and Aesthetic Fence. For fencing utility yards and adjacent territories, we propose replacing traditional profiled sheet fences with modern “Mehbud” fence model “Classic” or “Brus”. This is a simple, reliable, and visually attractive solution significantly surpassing profiled sheet in aesthetics and durability. This will improve the facility’s overall appearance and demonstrate a more modern approach to landscaping.

III. Analytical Conclusion: Ukrainian Retail Architecture Development Vectors for 2025-2026

The conducted analysis of leading Ukrainian grocery chains reveals not just a set of different design and construction approaches, but the formation of several clear and consistent architectural strategies. The industry’s future will be determined by the interaction and competition of these models.

Synthesis of key strategies:

1. “Experience-oriented maximalism” (representative – Silpo): This strategy views architecture as the primary marketing tool. It involves high investment in uniqueness of each facility, transforming stores into art spaces and engaging leading designers. The goal is not just to sell goods, but to create unforgettable emotional experience.
2. “Systematic efficiency” (representative – ATB-Market): Here architecture is a tool for maximally fast and economically efficient scaling. The strategy is based on rigid standardization, construction process optimization, and focus on return on investment (ROI).
3. “Pragmatic Europeanism” (representatives – Novus, METRO): This approach views architecture and engineering as long-term investment in efficiency and sustainable development. Priority is given not to external effects, but to compliance with international environmental standards (BREEAM), implementation of deep engineering innovations (heat recovery, CO2 transition), and reducing facility lifecycle cost.
4. “Design search” (representatives – Varus, Tavria V): This strategy is characteristic of companies seeking their own niche among giants. It involves active format experimentation, testing different design concepts, and attempting to differentiate through creating special atmosphere for different audience segments.

Forecast of future trends for 2025-2026:

Analysis of the current situation and company plans allows forecasting several key development vectors for Ukrainian retail architecture:

1. Hyperpersonalization and localization: Rapid development of “neighborhood store” and “express” formats (Auchan Pick Up Point, Varus Home, Novus Express) will force retailers to pay more attention to small architectural forms. Success will depend on ability to harmoniously integrate brand into existing architectural context of specific districts or residential complexes.
2. Sustainable development as new standard: Under influence of European players (Novus) and inevitable energy price growth, sustainable development technologies will cease being exotic. Solutions like widespread LED lighting use, heat recovery systems, ventilated facades, and use of certified, environmentally safe materials will gradually transform from competitive advantage to industry standard.
3. Trading space technologization: Further mass implementation of self-service checkouts, Scan&Go services, and electronic price tags will inevitably impact trading hall planning. Reducing checkout area will free space that retailers will use to create additional value: expanding food courts, rest areas, children’s corners, and other “emotional” zones.
4. Growing role of Ukrainian manufacturers: Under conditions of logistics-related challenges and nationwide course toward supporting national economy, the role of reliable Ukrainian building material manufacturers will steadily grow. Retailers will be increasingly interested in partners capable of offering world-class quality products, modern design, and supply stability. Companies like “Mekhbud” factory offering comprehensive architectural solutions (facades, ceilings, fences) will gain significant advantage.

To summarize the potential of modern building materials in solving retailer tasks, we present a summary table.

Table 2: Application of “Mehbud” Solutions in Modern Retail Construction

In conclusion, we can state that the future of Ukrainian grocery retail belongs to companies that can find their unique balance between bright architectural vision, deep engineering excellence, and strategic choice of quality, durable materials from reliable national manufacturers. At the intersection of these three vectors, new market leaders will emerge.