EQT Real Estate acquires EUR 230 million logistics portfolio in Northern Italy

EQT Real Estate, through its EQT Exeter Logistics Value Fund IV, has finalized an agreement to acquire a premium logistics portfolio in Northern Italy for approximately €230 million. The deal involves 12 fully leased, high-quality logistics assets spanning a total of 265,000 square meters. The acquisition marks a significant step in EQT Real Estate’s strategy to bolster its presence in Europe’s thriving logistics sector.

The portfolio, strategically located in key Northern Italian submarkets including Milan and Verona, offers exceptional connectivity to core distribution hubs via major motorways such as the A1, A4, and A22. These transport links provide access to more than 12 million people in major population centers, making the assets ideal for modern logistics operations.

The properties, with an average age of just ten years, boast Grade A technical specifications, including eaves heights averaging 11 meters and extensive loading and maneuvering capabilities. These state-of-the-art facilities cater to the needs of globally diversified tenants, aligning with the increasing demand for high-quality logistics spaces across Italy and Europe.

EQT Real Estate sees substantial growth opportunities in this portfolio. With a weighted average lease term of 4.3 years, the properties offer significant rental growth potential and value creation opportunities. By leveraging its asset management expertise, EQT Real Estate aims to enhance the portfolio’s performance, capitalizing on its strategic locations in supply-constrained markets.

“This portfolio represents a tremendous addition to our fund,” said John Toukatly, Partner and Chief Investment Officer for European Logistics at EQT Real Estate. “Strategically situated in key logistics hubs, these assets are highly appealing to prominent occupiers. The acquisition aligns perfectly with EQT Real Estate’s focus on acquiring modern logistics properties in underserved markets, and we look forward to unlocking additional value through our operational and asset management capabilities.”

The acquisition highlights the growing attractiveness of the Italian logistics market, which continues to experience robust demand. The Greater Milan area, in particular, has emerged as a key logistics hub, drawing investors seeking supply-constrained, strategically located assets.

The transaction was structured via an Italian Real Estate Investment Fund (REIF) managed by Kryalos SGR S.p.A., one of Italy’s leading real estate investment management firms. Kryalos will oversee the management of the assets, ensuring long-term value creation and operational excellence.

“This deal underscores the liquidity and strength of the Italian logistics market,” said Paolo Bottelli, Founder and CEO of Kryalos SGR. “The sector continues to attract global investors seeking to establish or grow their presence in this dynamic space. We are delighted to collaborate with EQT Real Estate to execute their investment strategy in Italy and to manage these properties to their fullest potential.”

The transaction not only strengthens EQT Real Estate’s presence in Northern Italy but also reinforces its commitment to Europe’s growing logistics market. With modern facilities, strong tenants, and prime locations, the portfolio positions EQT Real Estate to deliver long-term value and capitalize on the sustained demand for logistics infrastructure in Europe.

German logistics real estate in 2024: Retail sector gains momentum as automotive declines

The German logistics real estate market saw significant shifts in 2024, with logistics and courier, express, and parcel (CEP) service providers maintaining their dominance despite a notable decline in new construction activity. According to data analyzed by Logivest, a leading logistics real estate consultancy, new construction volumes reached approximately 4.4 million square meters in 2024. Logistics service providers led the way with 770,000 square meters, though their activity dropped by 20% compared to 2023 and over 50% from 2022.

Retail Sector Takes Second Place
The retail sector emerged as a strong contender, significantly increasing its demand for logistics space. With nearly 700,000 square meters of new construction, the sector ranked second, marking a 20% year-on-year growth. The non-food retail segment was a standout performer, registering an impressive 180% increase. Among the largest projects was Fressnapf’s new 72,000-square-meter e-commerce logistics center in Nörvenich, North Rhine-Westphalia, which broke ground in March 2024. This facility, catering to the pet supplies retailer’s growing e-commerce needs, highlights the sector’s expanding role in driving logistics development.

Automotive Sector Sees Decline
The automotive industry, traditionally a key driver of logistics construction, experienced a sharp 40% decline in 2024, contributing just under 340,000 square meters of new space. Mercedes-Benz’s 130,000-square-meter logistics center in Bischweier represented more than a third of the sector’s total activity and was the largest logistics project of the year. Despite the slowdown, the automotive sector remains a significant force in the market, with approximately 350,000 square meters already planned for 2025 and 2026. The sector’s evolving focus on e-mobility is evident in projects such as CATL’s logistics facility in Nohra, reflecting the growing demand for battery and electronics logistics.

Defence Sector Gains Traction
One of the most notable developments in 2024 was the emergence of the aerospace and defense sector as a new driver in the logistics real estate market. Previously a minor player, the sector accounted for over 100,000 square meters of new construction last year. This surge is attributed to the global political landscape, which has spurred demand for logistics infrastructure in defense. With an additional 77,000 square meters already in the pipeline for future projects, the sector is poised for sustained growth in the coming years.

Looking Ahead: Retail Leads the Way
The retail sector is projected to be the dominant driver of logistics real estate development in the near future. Logivest anticipates that retail-related new construction will exceed 1.2 million square meters in 2025 and 2026, underscoring its growing importance. As e-commerce continues to expand and consumer behavior evolves, the sector’s demand for state-of-the-art logistics facilities is expected to remain robust.

While the logistics market in 2024 experienced mixed performance across industries, the diversification of demand drivers signals a dynamic future for the sector. Retail’s ascendance, the resilience of logistics providers, and the emergence of new players such as the defense sector collectively shape a promising outlook for the logistics real estate market in Germany.

Source: Logivest GmbH

PAMERA achieves EUR 300 million acquisition volume in 2024, expands portfolio in Munich and New York

PAMERA Real Estate Partners, a family-owned investment office specializing in real estate, closed a robust 2024 with the acquisition of two significant properties, rounding off a year that saw the company’s total transaction volume exceed €300 million. The acquisitions further expand PAMERA’s diverse portfolio across Germany and the United States.

One of the newly acquired properties is a medical centre situated at Sauerbruchstraße 48 in Munich’s Grosshadern district. The 3,000-square-meter property, fully leased and built in 2004, was purchased from an international private equity fund. It houses several medical practices and a PENNY supermarket, which serves as the anchor tenant under a long-term lease. Located near the Klinikum Großhadern and the U6 underground station, the property is ideally positioned for its current use. PAMERA plans to retain the asset for the long term, emphasizing its strategic importance. The seller was represented by Savills in the transaction.

The second acquisition, marking PAMERA’s expansion in the U.S., is an apartment building located at 308 East 78th Street in New York City’s Upper East Side. This fully leased property includes 37 residential units and two retail spaces. PAMERA acquired the building in partnership with PEAK Capital Advisors as its local partner. The company has planned substantial renovations for the property, with investments amounting to several million dollars over the next few years.

In total, PAMERA completed eight acquisitions in 2024, with a significant portion of activity focused on the U.S. market. Three transactions were executed in the metropolitan areas of New York City and Denver, Colorado. PAMERA’s recently established New York office played a critical role in these investments, supporting German family offices and high-net-worth individuals seeking opportunities in the North American real estate market. The firm’s U.S. strategy focuses on high-growth Sunbelt states and key metropolitan hubs like New York and Boston, with occasional forays into the Canadian market.

Reflecting on the achievements of 2024 and the outlook for 2025, PAMERA’s Founder and Managing Partner, Christoph Zapp, noted the strategic timing of their acquisitions. “For us as a family office, the current market phase is ideal. We have capitalized on favorable acquisition yields and market disruptions to expand our portfolio at what is likely the low point of the investment cycle. In 2025, we aim to continue leveraging these opportunities, particularly in expanding our U.S. investments.”

As of the end of 2024, PAMERA managed 88 properties and projects spanning office, residential, and hotel asset classes. These assets are located across 26 cities in Germany and the United States, encompassing more than 370,000 square meters of rental space and valued at over €1.6 billion. With its commitment to a counter-cyclical investment strategy and global reach, PAMERA has positioned itself as a resilient player in the evolving real estate market.

Silverton secures long-term lease with GEL Express Logistik in Meerbusch office building

The Silverton Group has finalized a long-term lease agreement with GEL Express Logistik GmbH (GEL) for approximately 950 square meters of office space in its property located at Otto-Hahn-Strasse 10 in Meerbusch, near Düsseldorf. This significant lease brings the occupancy rate of the three-story building from 20% to over 50%, marking a notable milestone for the asset.

The property, which offers a total lettable area of around 3,100 square meters, is part of the ‘Elephant’ portfolio. This portfolio was acquired by Silverton in partnership with EPISO 5, a fund managed by Tristan Capital Partners, in 2019. GEL joins Lehmann Natur GmbH as a tenant in the building.

Constructed in 2006 on a 4,000 square meter site, the property is notable for its sustainability credentials, holding a “BREEAM Existing Property” certification. It includes 64 surface parking spaces and 19 underground spaces equipped with electric charging facilities, catering to modern mobility needs. Its strategic location provides excellent transport connectivity, with direct access to the A44 motorway and public transport stops within walking distance.

JLL acted as an advisor to GEL on the transaction, highlighting the growing demand for high-quality office space in the region. Currently, units ranging from 400 to 950 square meters remain available for lease on the first and second floors of the property.

German fintech N26 reports growth surge following regulatory easing

N26, the German digital banking giant, is celebrating a surge in customer acquisition and operational momentum following the lifting of restrictions imposed by Germany’s financial regulator, BaFin. The regulatory cap, introduced in 2021, limited the number of new customers the fintech could onboard, a measure aimed at ensuring N26 enhanced its risk management and compliance infrastructure. With the cap now eased, the company has entered a new phase of growth and expansion.

In a statement, N26 highlighted the positive impact of the regulatory shift on its operations, noting that customer onboarding had resumed at an accelerated pace across its key European markets. The lifting of the growth restriction comes as N26 demonstrated significant improvements in areas such as anti-money laundering controls, fraud prevention, and broader operational compliance.

“Today marks an important milestone for N26 as we continue to grow responsibly and sustainably,” said Co-CEO Valentin Stalf. He emphasized the company’s commitment to combining rapid growth with a robust framework for regulatory compliance, reflecting the firm’s efforts to rebuild trust with regulators and expand its footprint in a competitive fintech landscape.

N26’s customer base, which previously reached a plateau due to the restrictions, is now experiencing a resurgence. The digital bank reported an increase in new account openings, driven by demand from tech-savvy consumers seeking seamless and flexible financial services. The fintech, known for its user-friendly app and fee-free banking services, remains particularly popular among younger customers and frequent travelers who benefit from its cross-border functionality.

The easing of restrictions also coincides with N26’s renewed focus on innovation and diversification. Over the past year, the company has introduced new features, including investment tools, premium subscription plans, and expanded credit options. These initiatives aim to enhance customer retention and attract a broader demographic.

Industry analysts suggest that N26’s ability to comply with BaFin’s requirements and emerge from regulatory scrutiny could serve as a template for other fintech firms facing similar challenges. The lifting of the growth cap signals confidence in N26’s enhanced compliance mechanisms and its capacity to scale effectively while adhering to strict regulatory standards.

Despite the progress, challenges remain for the fintech, including fierce competition from established banks and other digital players in Europe. However, with a strengthened operational framework and growing customer interest, N26 appears poised to reclaim its position as one of Europe’s leading neobanks.

As N26 moves into this new chapter, the company has expressed its ambition to expand beyond Europe, with long-term plans to re-enter markets like the United States and explore opportunities in Asia. This global outlook, combined with its focus on compliance and innovation, is expected to drive the next phase of N26’s growth story.

Photo: N26 Magazine

European banks poised for stability and growth in 2025 amid evolving challenges

European banks are entering 2025 with a stable outlook, as 75% of rating outlooks are currently stable and an additional 19% are positive, according to a recent report by S&P Global Ratings. This resilience is attributed to favorable credit conditions, which are expected to help banks strengthen their financial positions and pursue expansion opportunities throughout the year.

Key indicators suggest that European banks are well-positioned, with expectations of solid profitability, robust capitalization, and ample liquidity. Priorities for the sector include competing for renewed loan growth, enhancing recurring fee income, and maintaining cost discipline. The capacity for capital distribution remains strong, reflecting the overall health of the industry.

However, the report cautions that geopolitical risks in Europe remain elevated. Potential shifts in trade and fiscal policies could pose challenges to the economic outlook and financial market conditions. Banks with weaker franchises or vulnerable business models may be particularly susceptible to any abrupt economic changes or macro-financial shocks.

With increased confidence in their financial standing and benefiting from positive market repricing, some European banks are setting more ambitious goals. Strategies such as diversifying product lines, pursuing inorganic growth, and forming partnerships are gaining traction. Conversely, banks with fewer resources may find it increasingly difficult to remain competitive in this evolving landscape.

Economic competitiveness has become a focal point on policy agendas. Supervisors are closely monitoring geopolitical risks, liquidity, operational resilience, and environmental factors. While a regulatory rollback is unlikely, there may be opportunities for banks advocating for reduced bureaucracy to find support among certain policymakers.

Recent assessments of the Banking Industry Country Risk Assessment (BICRA) indicate a predominantly stable environment, with positive trends mainly observed in Southern European banking systems. Notably, Greece, Cyprus, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, and Spain have experienced positive adjustments in their economic and industry risk scores. In contrast, Hungary and Israel have faced negative revisions, highlighting the varied risk landscape across the region.

The report also notes a meaningful net positive bias in European bank ratings, driven largely by institutions rated in the ‘BB’ and ‘BBB’ categories. Southern European banks account for the majority of positive outlooks, while specific instances of asset deterioration contribute to negative outlooks.

In summary, European banks are anticipated to maintain stability and pursue growth in 2025, supported by favorable credit conditions and strategic initiatives. Nonetheless, they must remain vigilant to geopolitical uncertainties and potential economic shifts that could impact their operations and financial health.

Source: S&P Global
S&P Global Download: The Top Trends Shaping European Bank Ratings In 2025

GARBE Industrial and Sidra Capital join forces for sale-and-leaseback ventures

GARBE Industrial Real Estate GmbH has announced a strategic joint venture with Middle Eastern investment manager Sidra Capital. The partnership will focus on acquiring light industrial and logistics properties in Germany through sale-and-leaseback transactions, a strategy aimed at unlocking capital for property owners while enabling them to continue their operations under long-term leases.

The joint venture combines GARBE Industrial’s extensive expertise in logistics and light industrial sectors with Sidra Capital’s global investment network and long-term strategic outlook. The partnership aims to build a diversified portfolio of high-performing properties that cater to tenant needs while delivering steady, long-term returns. To date, the partnership has secured equity commitments of €50 million to support its ambitious investment strategy.

Dr. Peter Bartholomaeus, Head of Fund Management & Capital Markets and Member of the Executive Board at GARBE Industrial, expressed confidence in the collaboration. “Our partnership with Sidra Capital represents an opportunity to solidify our strategy in the light industrial segment. Together, we aim to develop a portfolio that combines robust performance with substantial growth potential,” said Bartholomaeus. He emphasized that the venture would capitalize on several key trends, including the ongoing e-commerce boom, rising sustainability requirements, and the reshaping of global supply chains. “Germany offers an attractive investment landscape, especially in these contexts,” he added.

The joint venture’s primary focus will be on properties with strong tenant covenants and excellent transport connectivity. While newly constructed buildings are a priority, the partnership will also target existing properties with potential for enhancement, particularly in the area of sustainability.

Sale-and-leaseback transactions provide an efficient way for property owners to release capital tied up in real estate, allowing them to reinvest in their core business activities while remaining operational in the same space under long-term leasing agreements. This model has proven particularly attractive for tenants in Germany’s logistics and industrial sectors, where demand for high-quality facilities continues to grow.

Sidra Capital, a prominent investment manager in the Middle East with a diversified global portfolio, views this partnership as a strategic move to tap into Europe’s industrial real estate market. “Our commitment to providing capital for this venture underscores the strong interest in industrial sector investments from Middle Eastern investors,” said Ghassan Soufi, Vice Chairman of Sidra Capital. “Collaborating with a market leader like GARBE Industrial aligns perfectly with our long-term investment strategy and strengthens our presence in key target markets.”

Matt Hills, Managing Director of Real Estate Europe at Sidra Capital, highlighted the significance of Germany’s logistics and industrial real estate sector. “Germany represents a mature and well-established market with considerable opportunities for growth. Despite current economic headwinds and market price adjustments, we see this as an ideal entry point for long-term investors,” Hills remarked. He further emphasized the potential for growth as market conditions stabilize and improve over time.

In addition to financial returns, the joint venture is also keen on fostering sustainability in its portfolio. By investing in properties with redevelopment opportunities, the partnership aims to incorporate green technologies and sustainable practices, ensuring that its assets meet evolving environmental standards and regulatory requirements.

The partnership reflects a growing trend in the industrial and logistics real estate sector, where international investors increasingly look to collaborate with established local players to access high-potential markets. With Germany’s strategic position in Europe, robust infrastructure, and thriving industrial base, it remains an attractive destination for long-term investments in logistics and light industrial assets.

GARBE Industrial and Sidra Capital’s venture signals a forward-looking approach, combining market expertise with strategic capital allocation to seize opportunities in one of Europe’s most dynamic real estate sectors. As economic conditions evolve, the partnership is poised to take advantage of emerging trends and deliver value for both investors and tenants.

Photo’s: Dr Peter Bartholomäus, Source: GARBE Industrial Real Estate, Ghassan Soufi, Source: Sidra Capital, Matt Hills, Source: Sidra Capital and Mark Dahlke, Source: Sidra Capital

Bratislava’s new-build market surges in 2024: Challenges and trends await in 2025

In 2024, Bratislava’s new-build market experienced a remarkable resurgence, with apartment sales more than doubling compared to 2023. This significant growth occurred despite stable average prices, highlighting the market’s strong demand for housing. However, the upcoming year promises new challenges, shaped by legislative changes and evolving economic conditions.

Sales of newly built apartments reached 1,664 units in 2024, a sharp increase from the 773 units sold in 2023, according to Bencont Investments. This growth was particularly pronounced in the fourth quarter, driven by an anticipated VAT increase from 20% to 23% in 2025. Many buyers expedited transactions to secure lower prices, resulting in a flurry of sales activity toward the end of the year.

The average price of new-build apartments in Bratislava remained unchanged at €5,013 per square meter, including VAT. Despite this price stability, analysts observed a significant shift in consumer behavior. Buyers increasingly favored smaller, more affordable apartments, which led to an 8.3% year-on-year increase in the average price per square meter of sold units, reaching €4,805. The average size of sold apartments, however, remained steady at 58.2 square meters, reflecting sustained demand for compact living spaces.

A pivotal factor behind the surge in sales was the legislative push to increase the VAT rate. Buyers were motivated to finalize transactions in 2024, saving thousands of euros on down payments and overall costs. “The savings were most significant for completed properties, with differences amounting to thousands or even tens of thousands of euros for high-end units,” explained Marian Búlik, financial analyst at OVB Allfinanz Slovensko. This urgency to capitalize on lower VAT rates spurred robust sales, particularly in the latter half of the year.

The growing interest in smaller apartments was evident in the sales breakdown. Two-bedroom flats accounted for 44% of all transactions, with Bratislava II and Bratislava IV districts leading the way. These areas offered more affordable housing options, attracting a diverse range of buyers. According to Real Estate Union analyst Vladimír Kubrický, two-bedroom flats continue to be a long-term favorite among investors, given their versatility and broad appeal.

Despite the strong demand, the supply of new-build apartments declined. By the end of 2024, the market offered 3,353 units across 96 projects, a reduction driven by rapid sales outpacing the launch of new developments. Completed apartments accounted for 37.5% of the supply, down from 43% earlier in the year, underscoring the shrinking availability of ready-to-move-in homes.

Developers benefited significantly from this surge in demand. In the early months of 2024, incentives such as free parking spaces or complimentary kitchen installations were common. However, these promotions became unnecessary in the fourth quarter as buyers rushed to secure properties ahead of the VAT hike. While demand is expected to cool in early 2025, experts predict a gradual recovery later in the year, supported by falling mortgage interest rates and continued growth in real estate prices.

Looking ahead, rising property prices remain a concern. The VAT increase is likely to exert upward pressure on prices in 2025. However, analysts believe that a steady influx of new projects could help stabilize the market. “We anticipate rising sales will be adequately supplemented by new supply, keeping base prices relatively stable, excluding VAT,” said Bencont Investments analyst Rudolf Bruchánik.

The broader economic landscape will also influence the market. While falling interest rates are expected to improve housing affordability, challenges such as inflation and legislative uncertainties could temper growth. The European Central Bank’s cautious approach to monetary easing and potential eurozone economic slowdowns may further shape market dynamics.

Another critical factor impacting the market is the functionality of key institutions, such as the cadastral registry, which plays a vital role in property transactions. According to Finančný kompas managing director Matej Dobiš, disruptions in these systems could create anomalies in the market, influencing prices and transaction volumes. “We’ve already observed shifts in loan volumes, with November 2024 seeing a significant drop compared to previous highs in March 2022,” Dobiš noted.

Despite these challenges, the preference for homeownership over long-term rentals remains strong. Rising rental costs and high demand for rental properties in 2024 further reinforced the appeal of buying a home. “Buying a home is economically advantageous in the long term, with similar monthly costs as renting but the added benefit of property ownership after 20 or 30 years,” Búlik emphasized.

As Bratislava’s new-build market moves into 2025, the focus will shift to addressing supply constraints and adapting to changing economic conditions. The anticipated stabilization of housing prices, coupled with ongoing project development, offers hope for continued market growth. However, the sector must navigate challenges related to inflation, buyer behavior, and legislative changes to sustain its momentum.

The year 2024 marked a turning point for Bratislava’s real estate market, with record sales and renewed investor interest. As the city enters a new phase of growth, the balance between demand, supply, and affordability will be key to shaping its future.

Source: Trend
Photo: Čerešne Residence II, ITB Development

Young borrowers increasingly default on debts, say collection agencies

The number of young people aged 18 to 30 who default on their debts has been steadily increasing in recent years, with a particular spike in unpaid short-term loans, according to a survey conducted by the Czech News Agency among debt collection agencies. This trend has resulted in a noticeable drop in the average age of individuals struggling with debt, a decline of one to two years, according to Jana Tatýrková, executive director of the Association of Collection Agencies.

The defaults among younger borrowers often involve short-term loans ranging from tens of thousands of crowns, typically overdue by three or more months, noted Anežka Pavlíková, director of Fincollect. Since 2019, the number of young borrowers in default has risen by 18 percent. However, Pavlíková pointed out that for larger loans, such as consumer loans and mortgages, the profile of clients in default remains predominantly individuals over the age of 35.

Microloans, in particular, have become a significant issue for younger borrowers. Jakub Zetek, chief operating officer of M.B.A. Finance, reported that nearly half of the clients his firm deals with for defaulted microloans are under the age of 30. He noted a troubling pattern among this demographic, where many take out multiple loans in quick succession. “The first loan is often for something necessary, but subsequent loans are used to cover earlier debts, creating a cycle that often ends in insolvency,” Zetek explained. “Unlike their parents, this generation views borrowing and even default as normal and less of a cause for concern.”

Data from Redogan, another debt collection agency, indicates a sharp rise in microcredit defaults among under-30 clients, increasing by almost 10 percent in the last six months. Redogan’s sales director, Radek Pospíšil, highlighted another worrying trend: insolvencies among young borrowers have surged, rising from three to eight percent of the claims handled by the agency over the past year.

Experts attribute this trend to shifting financial behaviors among younger generations. Pavlíková described many millennials and members of Generation Z as driven by a desire for immediate gratification and a consumer lifestyle. “They want the latest phone or computer, go on vacations, or enjoy other experiences without waiting or saving up. Many overestimate their financial capacity and fail to budget for their expenses,” she said.

A survey conducted by GfK last autumn sheds light on the financial challenges faced by Generation Z. The data revealed that 60 percent of individuals from this cohort earn below the national average, and one-third lack savings to cover even a month’s worth of expenses. Additionally, 11 percent of young respondents admitted they were struggling to meet their monthly financial obligations.

The growing tendency of young borrowers to rely on credit for consumer goods and experiences underscores a significant cultural and economic shift. Unlike older generations, who were more inclined to save and adopt conservative financial habits, today’s youth are navigating a world where credit is more accessible but also more dangerous if mismanaged.

Debt collection agencies caution that the rising rate of defaults and insolvencies among younger borrowers is a clear signal of the need for financial education and better budgeting practices. With economic pressures and societal norms increasingly pushing young people toward a debt-reliant lifestyle, the consequences could lead to long-term financial instability for many.

Source: CTK

Netflix maintains leadership in Poland’s streaming market despite slight decline in Q4 2024

Netflix continues to dominate the Polish subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) market, holding a 32% share in the fourth quarter of 2024. However, this represents a slight decline of one percentage point compared to the previous quarter, according to the latest data from JustWatch.

The streaming giant remains at the forefront of Poland’s competitive SVOD landscape, despite increasing competition from other platforms. Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Max (formerly HBO Max) showed notable gains during the quarter, reflecting a dynamic shift in viewer preferences.

Disney+ demonstrated the most significant growth, increasing its market share by two percentage points by the end of 2024. Amazon Prime Video, Max, and Player also experienced a one-percentage-point rise in market share. On the other hand, Viaplay and Netflix saw slight declines, losing 1% and 2% of their respective market shares over the course of the year.

By the end of Q4 2024, Amazon Prime Video solidified its position as the second-largest player in the Polish SVOD market with a 13% share, followed by Disney+ at 12%. Apple TV+ accounted for 9%, while Player captured 8%. Viaplay, a popular streaming service for sports and entertainment, held 5% of the market, with smaller platforms collectively accounting for the remaining 4%.

The results highlight the increasing fragmentation of the Polish streaming market, with a growing number of platforms competing for viewers’ attention. “Disney+ has successfully capitalized on its strong content library and strategic growth initiatives, continuing to increase its foothold in Poland,” said a JustWatch representative.

The report also noted the resurgence of Max (HBO Max’s rebranded service), which has gained traction due to its revamped content offering and a more user-friendly interface. Similarly, Amazon Prime Video’s steady growth can be attributed to its competitive pricing, exclusive content, and bundling with other Amazon services, which appeal to a broad range of subscribers.

Despite Netflix’s slight decline, the platform remains the market leader, thanks to its extensive library of original programming and consistent release of popular titles. However, experts suggest that the platform faces increasing pressure to innovate and adapt as competition intensifies in Poland and globally.

“The streaming market in Poland is undergoing significant transformation, driven by new entrants, local adaptations, and evolving consumer preferences,” said a media analyst. “Platforms like Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video are gaining ground, while regional players such as Player are carving out niches with locally tailored content.”

The report also highlighted a notable trend in streaming habits, with more viewers opting for multiple subscriptions to access a broader variety of content. This trend has been fueled by the diversification of offerings, including local programming, live sports, and exclusive series, across various platforms.

Looking ahead, industry experts predict further shifts in Poland’s SVOD market as newer entrants and emerging platforms seek to challenge established players. As the competition intensifies, platforms will likely focus on pricing strategies, exclusive partnerships, and diverse content to attract and retain subscribers in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Netflix, while still the leader, may need to explore innovative ways to maintain its dominance, including investments in local content and improved user engagement. Meanwhile, the rising popularity of Disney+, Max, and other competitors underscores a market that is increasingly diverse and dynamic, reflecting global trends in the streaming industry.

The Polish streaming market continues to grow, driven by an expanding subscriber base and heightened competition. With 2025 expected to bring more developments and changes in the SVOD landscape, viewers will likely benefit from a wider array of choices and improved offerings as platforms vie for market share.

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