With over 100 completed projects across five markets, a team of 50 top-tier engineers, and unwavering attention to detail – this is the success formula of CRE International. From Skopje to Minsk and Belgrade to Riyadh, their expertise creates lasting value and sets new standards in sustainability
For the past 15 years, CRE International has been pushing the boundaries of engineering in the region and beyond, combining local know-how with global standards. In this interview for CorD, Business Development Director Anđelko Ristićević shares how trust is built, why every project is equally important, and why the future lies in sustainable, intelligent solutions – from logistics centres and hotels to LEED certification and ESG principles.
Over the past 15 years, you’ve completed more than 100 projects across five markets. Are you proud of the impact, contribution, and legacy you’ve built?
— Yes, absolutely. Those numbers speak for themselves — but what fulfils us most is the fact that we’ve remained true to our roots and approach throughout the years, while also embracing new technologies.
Quality lies at the core of your work, regardless of a project’s type or complexity?
— The market has clearly recognised that — which is why we’re often brought into projects where specific consultancy services are required, in addition to the standard ones needed for legal compliance in planning and construction. Our clients frequently assume that CRE International will be there to support them in complex, demanding assignments – not just as supervisory or technical control, but as a consulting partner guiding them toward their goal.
The company has had a long-standing presence in North Macedonia. Which markets do you see as opportunities for growth?
— We’ve been present in North Macedonia for the past 15 years, having worked on the two largest shopping centres in Skopje, Hotel Russia, and numerous smaller facilities. At the moment, we’re engaged on a complex logistics centre alongside a long-term client from Serbia. We also operate in Montenegro, where our Podgorica branch has existed for 13 years. Additionally, we’ve followed certain projects in Bosnia. We are currently completing project management for the Waldorf Astoria hotel in Minsk, Belarus, and we aim to maintain our presence in both the Russian and Belarusian markets. However, our most significant plans outside Serbia are focused on Saudi Arabia, where we are in the process of opening a branch to support the incredible construction boom currently taking place there.
You’re well-known for promoting energy- efficient projects and implementing them with a strong environmental focus. Do you see sustainability as the future?
— Of course. As in many industries, sustainability is arguably most critical in construction – both during the design phase and throughout execution. We are currently involved in the certification process for a LEED Gold building in Belgrade, and we are witnessing first-hand how seriously the market is embracing these trends. Following European developments, through our regular attendance at MIPIM – probably the world’s largest real estate event – and other major conferences, we’ve observed that ESG has moved to the forefront, even ahead of energy efficiency itself. Accordingly, we have focused even more intensively on this area.
Your clients say you approach every project with the same level of dedication. Is that the secret to your long-standing partnerships?
— That’s right. Our team is composed mainly of highly experienced engineers who are uncompromising in their standards and approach every task with equal care and commitment. They’ve been our compass and our greatest asset throughout our company’s journey. Our business model is based on delivering complete services, rather than charging by man-month or man-hour – and clients recognise this as a major advantage. This approach provides flexibility, which is especially valuable in complex projects. It also helps that we have a large number of engineers and can deliver most services independently, without relying on external partners or firms.