In line with their strategic partnership, UniCredit and Alpha Bank announced today (July 8, 2026) the acceleration of cross-border initiatives across key European markets—with Bulgaria as the most recent focus. Senior executives from both banks recently met at UniCredit Bulbank’s headquarters in Sofia.
Joint Platform for Seamless Cross-Border Support
Discussions centered on leveraging local expertise and the combined networks of both institutions to better serve growing businesses with cross-border operations between Greece and Bulgaria. The aim is to deliver high-quality banking services—and access to additional European markets—through a unified platform that enables the two banks to operate as a single, cohesive team.
Greece and Bulgaria have been close economic partners for decades. At the same time, Southeastern Europe is increasingly emerging as a vital corridor for trade and investment. This collaboration positions both banks to offer a more integrated experience—spanning banking services and advisory support—to clients, regardless of market.
Leadership Perspectives
Lazaros Papagarifallos, Deputy CEO of Alpha Bank, said during the Sofia visit: “Together, we are building a bridge connecting Greece and Southeastern Europe to the EU’s most important markets. Companies with strong footprints, outward-looking strategies, and capable teams deserve banking relationships that match their ambitions. Alongside our colleagues at UniCredit, we are committed to enabling our clients’ next step—whether that means growth, innovation, or international expansion. With both banks operating as one team, our support starts in Greece, extends into Bulgaria, and reaches the European markets most relevant to our clients.”
Richard Burton, Group Head of Client Solutions at UniCredit, added: “It was a pleasure to meet representatives of leading companies active in Greece and Bulgaria during our meetings in Sofia—and to hear firsthand about the challenges and opportunities they see, as well as how our collaboration can help them achieve their goals. Active dialogue between our teams and joint client-facing activities are turning this partnership into tangible, practical value for the businesses we serve.”
Expanding Scope of Services
The collaboration is designed to progressively cover the full spectrum of corporate banking needs—from day-to-day transactions and cross-border financing to advisory services—all through a single platform. This integration aims to streamline business expansion from Greece into broader European markets, while also facilitating greater investment flows into Greece and Southeastern Europe.
During the trip to Bulgaria, meetings were held with local business associations and corporate clients.