KYIV, May 21 – The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and Fozzy Group have signed a long-term loan agreement on the issue of $60 million to upgrade and expand Silpo and Fora grocery chains, as well as to launch the first supermarket in Ukraine certified according to the BREEAM standards of "green" construction.

"The bank's long-term loan of up to $60 million will contribute to Fozzy Group's investment program and will help the Ukrainian food retailer open or renovate 41 Silpo supermarkets and stores as well as 29 Fora convenience stores. The funds can be disbursed in U.S. dollars, but also in either euros or Ukrainian hryvnias, with the latter option designed to limit currency exchange-related risks," the bank said on its website.