Cencosud to Increase Investments by 16% in 2025, Reaching USD 610 Million

January 16, 2025 at 11:21 AM EST

Capex will be primarily allocated to store openings and renovations, shopping center expansions, digital projects, and new logistics capabilities.
Cencosud expects to achieve revenues of USD 17.95 billion and an Adjusted EBITDA of USD 1.87 billion.

From Sky Costanera, the highest observation deck in South America, Cencosud held its annual presentation to investors and market analysts, unveiling its investment plan for the year. The event was attended by investment banks, representatives from pension funds, and both domestic and international investors.

For 2025, the company projects revenues of USD 17.95 billion and an Adjusted EBITDA of USD 1.87 billion, reflecting an EBITDA margin of 10.4%, driven by double-digit margins in key markets such as Chile, the United States, Peru, and Argentina, along with expected performance improvements in Colombia and Brazil.

In this context, Cencosud announced an investment plan of USD 610 million for 2025, representing a 16% increase compared to the 2024 plan (USD 524 million*). The plan includes the opening of 24 new supermarkets across its operating countries, adding 44,000 m² of retail space, with a notable focus on 12 new specialty stores in the United States under The Fresh Market brand.

The plan also encompasses a new Home Improvement store, the expansion and renovation of seven shopping centers, and an increase in GLA (Gross Leasable Area) by 66,000 m², enhancing the commercial offering and strengthening its appeal to maximize value for both customers and investors.

During his presentation to investors, Rodrigo Larraín, CEO of Cencosud, emphasized that the company is embarking on a new chapter in a journey shaped by a 60-year legacy of entrepreneurial spirit, growth, deep customer passion, and an outstanding team of over 100,000 employees.

“Cencosud is in a privileged position to tackle the challenges and changes taking place in both technology and consumer habits and interests, driving growth and profitability by leveraging market opportunities”, he stated.

He also outlined the strategic pillars underpinning Cencosud’s investment plan: Growth and Profitability, Experience and Innovation, Retail Ecosystem, and Sustainability.

Under the Growth and Profitability pillar, Cencosud highlighted the pivotal role of private-label brands, its retail media initiatives, and the key role of e-commerce as a growth engine. Regarding Experience and Innovation, significant operational improvements aim to enhance the efficiency and quality of its products and services. Within the Retail Ecosystem pillar, Cencosud seeks to strengthen its global capabilities, maximize synergies across divisions, integrate new revenue streams, and accelerate innovation and digital transformation. Finally, through Sustainability, the company strives to align its performance with major global standards and key sustainability indicators.

Cencosud has firmly established itself as one of Latin America’s leading retailers, with operations in eight countries, more than 105,000 employees, and a robust operational footprint that includes 1,129 supermarkets, 117 home improvement stores, and 48 department stores. Additionally, the company operates 67 shopping centers, attracting an annual flow of 180 million visits, underscoring its vast reach and significance in the region.

*In 2024, investment plan considered Capex of USD 524 million and Opex of USD 117 million, totaling USD 641 million. Comparing equivalent investments (Capex), 2025 represents +16%.