New retail hub 'imagina' set to disrupt madrid's south
Just 15 minutes from Madrid, a new retail and Entertainment destination—IMAGINA—is poised to reshape the commercial landscape of Getafe and the broader southern region of the Community of Madrid. The project, nearing completion, represents a significant shift in consumer options and could challenge established players like Nassica.
Strategic location fuels anticipation
IMAGINA's location is undeniably strategic. Situated adjacent to a municipality of nearly 200,000 residents, and boasting excellent connectivity to Madrid and other key southern communities via the A-4 and commuter rail, the center is primed to capture a substantial share of regional spending. The 13,000-square-meter space will house a diverse mix of retail, food, and leisure offerings, a stark contrast to the dwindling vibrancy of existing commercial spaces in the area.
The arrival of Alcampo, a highly-regarded hypermarket chain known for its value proposition, is a major draw. Alcampo’s presence, coupled with the area's demographic trends—Getafe is rapidly overtaking Fuenlabrada as the region's most populous city—suggests a strong demand for accessible retail experiences. The proximity to the Airbus plant, employing thousands of workers with considerable purchasing power, further bolsters IMAGINA’s potential.
Transportation links and a growing neighborhood
Beyond the immediate draw of the Airbus workforce, IMAGINA benefits from its location near Getafe Industrial station, just two stops from Madrid's central hub on the C3 Renfe line. While currently primarily used by Airbus employees and workers from nearby industrial parks, improved access facilitated by IMAGINA could significantly broaden its appeal to commuters seeking a convenient shopping and Entertainment alternative, particularly those avoiding Madrid's notorious traffic congestion.
The rise of the Los Molinos neighborhood, experiencing consistent growth over the past 15 years, and the shift of commercial activity away from Getafe’s city center towards the periphery, highlights a broader trend. Families are increasingly gravitating towards the extrarradio, seeking modern amenities and convenient access.
A different vision than nassica
While Nassica currently serves as a major shopping destination, IMAGINA appears to be positioning itself as a more focused offering: a hub for local shopping and accessible leisure. Nassica's model relies more heavily on discount brands and a potentially more limited Entertainment selection. The competition between the two will be a key factor in shaping the future of retail in the region.
Launch details and expectations
IMAGINA is slated to open in the final quarter of 2026. The strategic timing, coinciding with Black Friday and the holiday shopping season, is clearly intended to maximize initial impact. The project’s developers are confident that IMAGINA will quickly become a vital destination for residents and commuters alike, offering a compelling alternative to existing options and injecting new life into the southern Madrid retail market.