Business: Start-up city / Rijeka
Plucky upstart
While Croatia has experienced a tourism boom, its third-largest city has forged its own unique path, building on its coastal location and can-do attitude to welcome a wave of businesses – big and small.
Dean Lalic spreads his arms wide, beatific grin firmly in place, as he gazes across Kvarner Bay to the city of Rijeka, shimmering in the heat on the other side of the turquoise water. His gesture, and the scenery, both speak volumes. “I am doing what I love, in the place that I love,” he says, with satisfaction. Then his earpiece crackles and it’s back to business. He’s still smiling as he motions for everyone in the shady garden to keep quiet during another take.