Cavatina Holding leases 45,000 sqm of office space in 2024

Cavatina Holding successfully leased a total of 45,000 square meters of office space in 2024, further solidifying its position as one of Poland’s leading office space developers. The company announced that its total office portfolio now exceeds 200,000 square meters of gross leasable area (GLA), with occupancy levels nearing 90% by the end of the year.

According to Sebastian Suchodolski, Head of Leasing at Cavatina Holding, the demand for premium office spaces in strategic locations remains strong, as employers seek to provide optimal working environments to attract their teams back to the office. He emphasized that the company’s developments are tailored to meet these expectations, leading to the signing of new lease agreements for over 35,000 square meters of space in the past year. Additionally, tenants have opted to extend their lease agreements for approximately 10,000 square meters of office space across Cavatina’s investment projects.

A significant milestone for the company in 2024 was the completion and launch of Grundmanna Office Park A in Katowice, an investment that further strengthens Cavatina Holding’s footprint in key Polish business hubs.

Cavatina Holding Capital Group, a major player in the Polish real estate market, has been consistently expanding its office space offerings. The company made its debut on the Warsaw Stock Exchange (WSE) in 2021, marking a significant step in its growth strategy. With a focus on prime office locations and high-quality developments, the company continues to attract corporate tenants looking for modern and sustainable workspaces.

Cavatina operates as a Polish capital group with a diversified focus on both commercial and residential property development. While Cavatina Holding leads the charge in the commercial office sector, its subsidiary, Resi Capital, specializes in the residential market, actively marketing and selling its own housing investments.

As Cavatina Holding continues its expansion, it remains committed to delivering state-of-the-art office spaces that align with evolving tenant demands, further reinforcing its position as one of Poland’s most dynamic and forward-thinking real estate developers.

Source: Cavatina Holding and ISBnews
Photo: Sebastian Suchodolski, Head of Leasing at Cavatina Holding

Lukasz Stelmach appointed Vice-President for Financial Affairs at CCC effective February 1, 2025

The CCC Group has announced the appointment of Lukasz Stelmach as the new Vice-President for Financial Affairs, effective February 1, 2025. The decision was formalized through a resolution adopted by the company’s Supervisory Board, which also approved an expansion of the current management board to include an additional member, increasing its total composition to three executives.

Stelmach’s appointment marks a strategic move by CCC, one of the leading European footwear and fashion retailers, to strengthen its financial leadership amid a rapidly evolving retail landscape. With extensive experience in financial management, strategic planning, and corporate governance, Stelmach is expected to play a crucial role in driving the company’s financial stability and long-term growth. His responsibilities will include overseeing CCC’s financial operations, risk management, budgeting, and financial reporting, as well as contributing to the company’s broader business strategy.

Prior to joining CCC, Stelmach held several high-profile positions within the financial sector, demonstrating a proven track record of managing complex financial structures and delivering strategic solutions in dynamic environments. His expertise in financial restructuring, cost optimization, and capital market operations will be instrumental as CCC continues to expand its footprint and adapt to changing market conditions.

The expansion of CCC’s management board reflects the company’s commitment to enhancing its corporate governance and operational efficiency. By adding a dedicated Vice-President for Financial Affairs, CCC aims to bolster its financial oversight and decision-making processes, ensuring greater agility and resilience in a highly competitive market.

CCC Group, known for its strong presence across European markets, has been focusing on strengthening its financial standing through strategic investments and digital transformation initiatives. The company’s management has been actively working to optimize operations and streamline costs while continuing to provide value to shareholders and customers.

In a statement, a CCC spokesperson expressed confidence in Stelmach’s ability to contribute significantly to the organization’s financial performance and future growth. “We believe that Mr. Stelmach’s appointment will bring valuable insights and expertise to our financial strategy, helping us navigate the challenges and opportunities of the retail industry,” the spokesperson said.

The newly appointed Vice-President is expected to work closely with other board members to implement CCC’s strategic financial objectives and align them with the company’s broader vision. This move signals CCC’s proactive approach in strengthening leadership capabilities to support its ambitious expansion plans and financial sustainability goals.

As Stelmach takes on his new role, industry observers anticipate that his financial acumen will support CCC’s efforts to achieve operational excellence and maintain a strong market position in the coming years.

Czech Republic sees increase in new companies despite economic challenges in 2024

In 2024, a total of 30,910 new companies were established in the Czech Republic, marking an increase of 1,934 compared to the previous year. At the same time, 17,099 companies ceased operations, representing a year-on-year rise of 1,004. As a result, the net increase in businesses amounted to 13,811, nearly a thousand more than in 2023.

According to Věra Kameníčková, an analyst at CRIF – Czech Credit Bureau, the number of newly established companies grew by 7% year-on-year, reaching the highest levels since 2019. However, with the rise in company formations, the number of closures also increased, with an average of 2,576 companies being created each month and a net monthly gain of 1,151 companies. In December 2024 alone, 2,827 companies were founded, while 1,653 ceased operations.

The growth rate in new companies has slowed in recent years. In 2024, 18 new businesses were created for every 10 closures, the same ratio as in 2023 but lower than in previous years when the figures stood at 20 and 21, respectively. This slowdown has been influenced by weak economic growth, high energy prices, rising labor costs, and subdued demand from both households and businesses, leading to a cautious approach and higher savings. Despite this, company deposits still exceed their bank loans, both of which grew by 7% year-on-year.

Prague continues to dominate the market, accounting for more than half of the new businesses established in 2024, with 15,782 companies. The South Moravian Region followed with 3,708 new businesses, while the Moravian-Silesian Region recorded 2,190. In contrast, the lowest numbers were seen in the Karlovy Vary Region (380), the Vysočina Region (537), and the Liberec Region (573). Prague also led in business closures, with 9,467 companies shutting down, followed by the South Moravian Region (1,723) and the Moravian-Silesian Region (1,106).

Although most regions experienced growth, the Ústí Region saw a decline, with only 9 new companies per 10 closures. The fastest growth was recorded in the Highlands, with 30 new businesses per 10 defunct ones, followed by the South Bohemian Region with 28, and the Zlín and Olomouc regions, each with 27. The Liberec and Karlovy Vary regions showed only modest growth.

The trade sector saw the highest number of new companies, with 3,802 added in 2024. Real estate followed closely with 3,643 new businesses, while the manufacturing sector welcomed 3,110. However, the trade sector also experienced the highest number of closures, with 5,077 companies ceasing operations, followed by real estate (3,439) and professional, scientific, and technical activities (2,466). Overall, the trade sector saw the largest decline, with only 7 new businesses created for every 10 closures.

The construction industry contributed the most to business growth, adding 1,762 companies, followed by manufacturing (1,716), information and communication (1,589), and accommodation and catering (1,166). Despite higher bankruptcy rates in construction, manufacturing, and hospitality, the number of new companies in these sectors significantly exceeded closures.

The fastest-growing sector was personal services, such as hairdressing, beauty, and laundry, with 72 new businesses for every 10 closures. Education followed, with 55 new businesses per 10 closures, while energy production and distribution saw a ratio of 52 to 10.

Half of the companies that shut down in 2024 had been in operation for 16 years or more, having started before 2008. About 20% had been on the market for 11 to 15 years, and 22% for 6 to 10 years, while only 8% of the defunct businesses had been operating for five years or less, a trend that has remained relatively stable over time.

Source: Czech Credit Bureau (CRIF)

Millions sue LinkedIn over alleged AI training on private messages

Millions of LinkedIn Premium users in the US have filed a lawsuit against the platform, alleging that it shared their private messages with third parties without their consent to train generative artificial intelligence (AI). The lawsuit, reported by Reuters, accuses LinkedIn, owned by Microsoft, of breaching contracts and violating California’s unfair competition law. It also seeks damages under the federal Stored Communications Act, demanding USD 1,000 per affected user.

The class-action lawsuit was filed in federal court in San Jose, California, and claims LinkedIn quietly introduced a privacy setting in August 2023 that allowed users to opt in or out of data sharing. Plaintiffs argue that the platform later updated its privacy policy on September 18, 2023, stating that user data could be used for AI training. A frequently asked questions (FAQ) section further clarified that opting out would not prevent data already used from being part of AI training.

The lawsuit contends that these policy changes were an attempt by LinkedIn to “cover its tracks,” implying that the company knowingly violated user privacy and sought to limit legal repercussions. Plaintiffs argue that the retrospective policy updates reflect LinkedIn’s awareness of potential misconduct and their efforts to mitigate liability.

LinkedIn has yet to respond publicly to the allegations.

The formula for viral success: What makes videos go viral on social media?

In today’s digital age, virally successful videos have become a key factor in determining the success of brands, companies, and content creators across social media platforms. A single well-executed video can capture the attention of millions, while countless others struggle to stand out in the overwhelming flood of content. The question that many ask is: what makes the difference between a viral hit and a forgotten clip? According to industry experts, viral videos often follow specific formulas that, when applied strategically, can significantly increase the chances of reaching a massive audience.

One of the most critical elements of a viral video is its emotional appeal. Content that resonates emotionally—whether through humor, surprise, or inspiration—tends to perform exceptionally well. People are more likely to share content that evokes strong feelings, leading to organic reach and rapid distribution. A high recognition value also plays a crucial role. Videos that tap into cultural trends, relatable everyday situations, or current events are more likely to engage viewers and encourage them to interact and share.

Technical execution is another essential factor in achieving virality. A snappy and engaging introduction, a concise and clear message, and an eye-catching visual format are all key elements that help retain viewers’ attention. Social media users tend to have short attention spans, making it vital to capture interest within the first few seconds. High-quality production, creative storytelling, and well-placed calls to action can further enhance the video’s effectiveness.

In addition to content quality, timing and platform optimization are crucial for viral success. Different social media platforms have varying preferences when it comes to video format, duration, and posting schedules. For instance, short and snappy clips tend to perform well on platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels, while longer, informative videos may thrive on YouTube or Facebook. Understanding the algorithmic preferences of each platform—such as posting times, hashtags, and engagement metrics—can greatly influence a video’s reach and visibility.

Experts at Lighthouse, a leading marketing agency, emphasize the importance of understanding these factors and leveraging them to their advantage. “As a long-standing partner with decades of know-how, we understand the challenges companies face very well. We are proud to offer our clients not just marketing services but also our full business expertise in a collaborative partnership,” says Angelika Thonauer, CEO of Lighthouse. She adds, “We are focused on delivering creative solutions that drive our customers’ success. Video creation expertise has become a vital aspect of digital marketing today!”

Lighthouse’s marketing professionals and social media coaches are now offering targeted training sessions to help companies and content creators master the art of viral video creation. These sessions focus on actionable strategies that go beyond simply gaining clicks; they aim to build long-term brand awareness and drive sales growth. By understanding what works in the fast-paced world of social media, businesses can turn their video content into a powerful tool for engagement and customer conversion.

The significance of viral content extends beyond mere entertainment; it has become an essential part of modern digital marketing strategies. Brands that successfully harness the power of viral videos can experience increased customer loyalty, enhanced market visibility, and substantial revenue growth. As social media platforms continue to evolve, staying ahead of trends and continuously adapting strategies will be crucial for businesses looking to make a lasting impact in the digital landscape.

In conclusion, while there is no guaranteed formula for viral success, incorporating emotional storytelling, technical excellence, platform optimization, and expert guidance can significantly improve the chances of achieving widespread reach. With the right strategy and execution, viral videos can become a powerful tool to elevate a brand’s presence and connect with audiences in meaningful ways.

Hundreds of millions could face job loss in the next decade due to automation and AI advancements

The global job market is on the brink of a massive transformation, with hundreds of millions of people at risk of losing their jobs over the next decade. Rapid advancements in automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and robotics are poised to reshape industries, rendering many traditional roles obsolete while creating new opportunities that demand different skill sets. The pace of technological progress, combined with shifting economic dynamics and evolving workforce demands, raises critical questions about the future of employment and the measures required to address this impending challenge.

Automation and AI are no longer confined to manufacturing lines and repetitive tasks. Today, intelligent systems are being deployed across various sectors, including finance, healthcare, retail, logistics, and customer service. AI-powered chatbots are replacing customer support representatives, self-checkout machines are taking over retail cashier roles, and algorithm-driven investment platforms are disrupting traditional banking and finance careers. According to a report by the World Economic Forum, automation is expected to displace over 85 million jobs globally by 2025, with a much larger impact forecasted by 2035. In industries such as transportation and logistics, self-driving technology and drone deliveries threaten millions of jobs in trucking and delivery services. The rapid adoption of robotics in manufacturing and warehouse operations has already led to widespread layoffs in many developed economies, with developing nations soon to follow as automation becomes more affordable and scalable.

Low-skilled and routine jobs are at the highest risk of displacement. Roles that involve repetitive manual tasks or predictable decision-making processes are particularly vulnerable. Some of the most affected job categories include manufacturing and assembly line workers, retail and service sector employees, clerical and administrative roles, and transportation workers. Even highly skilled jobs in sectors such as law, finance, and healthcare are not immune. AI algorithms are now capable of analyzing legal contracts, offering financial advice, and even diagnosing medical conditions, raising concerns about the future of white-collar professions.

The widespread job displacement due to automation and AI will have significant social and economic repercussions. Millions of people could find themselves unemployed, leading to increased income inequality and social unrest. Governments may struggle to provide adequate social safety nets and retraining programs, while businesses will need to navigate the challenges of a rapidly evolving labor market. Countries with large populations and lower levels of technological adaptation, such as India, Brazil, and parts of Africa, may face particularly severe challenges as they lack the infrastructure and resources to quickly reskill their workforce. On the other hand, nations that invest in upskilling their populations and embracing innovation may benefit from the increased productivity and efficiency that AI brings.

Despite the grim outlook, automation and AI will also create new jobs and industries that require human ingenuity, creativity, and emotional intelligence—qualities that machines cannot easily replicate. The demand for professionals in AI development, cybersecurity, healthcare, renewable energy, and creative industries is expected to rise significantly. As businesses become more reliant on digital systems, the need for cybersecurity professionals to protect data and infrastructure will surge. With aging populations in many parts of the world, human caregivers will remain essential in providing personalized healthcare services. Additionally, as the world shifts toward sustainability, jobs in clean energy, environmental management, and green technology will see significant growth. Fields such as art, design, and entertainment that require human creativity and emotional intelligence will continue to thrive in an increasingly automated world.

To mitigate the adverse effects of job displacement, governments, educational institutions, and businesses must take proactive measures. Investing in education and reskilling programs will be crucial to preparing the workforce for the jobs of the future. Policymakers should explore strategies such as universal basic income (UBI) to provide financial security during transitional periods, while businesses should adopt responsible automation practices that prioritize human-robot collaboration rather than outright replacement. Collaboration between the public and private sectors will be essential in fostering a smooth transition to the AI-driven economy. Emphasizing lifelong learning and continuous skill development will empower individuals to adapt and remain relevant in an increasingly automated world.

The next decade will witness unprecedented shifts in the global labor market as automation and AI continue to evolve at an accelerated pace. While millions of jobs may disappear, new opportunities will emerge, demanding a collective effort from governments, businesses, and individuals to embrace change and build a more inclusive, future-ready workforce. The key to navigating this transformation lies in adaptability, lifelong learning, and proactive policy-making to ensure that technological progress benefits everyone.

Source: World Economic Forum

Slovakia could benefit from cooperative housing model

The growing housing crisis in Slovakia remains one of the most pressing socio-economic challenges of our time. Soaring property prices have made homeownership unattainable for a large portion of the population, including young families, single parents, and freelancers. As real estate prices continue to reach record highs, innovative solutions are needed to provide affordable housing options. One promising approach lies in cooperative housing, an old-new concept that has been successfully implemented in various European countries.

Slovakia currently lags behind in adopting cooperative housing on a larger scale, with only one major developer actively pursuing this model. Additionally, banks have been hesitant to offer refinancing options for cooperative housing projects, further limiting their expansion. However, inspiration can be drawn from neighboring Czech Republic, where significant strides have been made in addressing similar challenges. Czech banks have introduced a groundbreaking initiative—a mortgage option without the need for a guarantee, enabling individuals to purchase cooperative apartments without traditional property ownership barriers.

In Bratislava, where the average price of a two-room apartment exceeded 200,000 euros in 2024, the situation has become increasingly unsustainable. The affordability crisis extends beyond the capital, affecting many regions across the country due to stagnant purchasing power and slow wage growth. The adoption of cooperative housing in Slovakia could present a viable solution, potentially enabling up to 50,000 families to secure housing if just 10% of newly built apartments followed this model.

Under the cooperative housing system, residents do not own their apartments outright but instead become members of a cooperative that collectively owns the property. This model allows for lower initial costs compared to traditional homeownership, as buyers are not required to pay the full market price upfront. Instead, they make monthly payments, similar to rent, contributing to the overall cost of the property while enjoying the security and stability of long-term residence.

In the Czech Republic, cooperative housing has gained traction thanks to policy changes and financial instruments tailored to support this model. The introduction of mortgages without collateral has made it easier for individuals to invest in cooperative apartments, offering them an alternative pathway to affordable housing. Slovak policymakers and financial institutions could take inspiration from this approach to make homeownership more accessible to wider segments of the population.

Despite its potential, the expansion of cooperative housing in Slovakia faces several challenges. Legislative adjustments would be required to facilitate the development and financing of cooperative projects, and banks would need to develop tailored mortgage products to support buyers. Additionally, public awareness and education about the benefits and workings of cooperative housing would be essential to encourage broader acceptance.

If Slovakia embraces cooperative housing as a strategic solution, it could alleviate the housing crisis by providing affordable, flexible, and sustainable housing options. With proper regulatory frameworks and financial support, cooperative housing could become a key component of the Slovak real estate market, helping thousands of people achieve housing security in an increasingly expensive market.

In the coming years, Slovakia has the opportunity to learn from its neighbors and implement cooperative housing at a larger scale. If banks and policymakers take decisive action, the dream of homeownership could become a reality for many who currently find it out of reach.

Source: Trend.sk

Deloitte: Romanian companies face a challenging 2025 with focus on risk and cost management

Romanian companies are preparing for a challenging 2025, characterized by cautious optimism and a strong focus on managing risks and costs, according to the Deloitte CFO Survey Romania 2025. Conducted at the end of last year among approximately 130 CFOs, the survey reveals that while the majority, 58%, expect revenue growth, this figure has been steadily declining from 73% in 2021. These expectations reflect similar sentiments across Central Europe.

The study highlights a more conservative approach to capital expenditures compared to the previous year. The percentage of CFOs anticipating an increase in CAPEX has dropped from 46% to 34%, while those expecting a decrease have risen sharply from 19% to 33%, indicating a cautious investment climate.

In terms of employment, only 26% of Romanian financial executives predict an increase in staff, a significant decline from 37% last year. At the same time, the share of those expecting workforce reductions has grown from 18% to 28%, reflecting a more restrained outlook on hiring.

Risk appetite has also diminished, with 87% of respondents believing that 2025 is not the right time to take on greater risks, a perspective consistent with trends seen across Central Europe. Romanian companies cite several key challenges, including economic uncertainty, which is expected to impact both domestic and external demand. About 44% of respondents foresee a decline in local demand, while 33% anticipate a drop in external demand. Additional concerns include increasing regulatory pressures, labor shortages, and geopolitical risks, with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine mentioned as a major concern by 47% of respondents.

Despite the projected decline in inflation to 5.4%, down from 11.2% two years ago, Romanian financial executives maintain a more cautious outlook compared to the forecasts of the National Bank of Romania and the National Institute of Statistics. For the eurozone, CFOs estimate an inflation rate of 3.1% over the next year, a more reserved outlook than that of national and international financial institutions.

In this context, cost management has emerged as the top priority for Romanian companies, with 37% of respondents emphasizing its importance. Other strategic areas of focus for 2025 include organic growth, expansion within existing markets, and the introduction of new products and services.

The survey also highlights concerns regarding potential tax increases and rising funding costs, driven by ongoing economic and political uncertainties. According to Zeno Capariu, Audit Partner and CFO Program Coordinator at Deloitte Romania, these factors explain the cautious investment stance and underscore the need for political stability and legislative predictability to support a thriving business environment.

The Deloitte CFO Survey Romania 2025 was conducted between September and October 2024, gathering insights from Romanian CFOs and comparing them with data from over 650 CFOs across 14 Central European countries, including Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic, and Slovakia.

Source: Deloitte Romania

LEGO Group will open its eighth store in Poland in Krakow

The LEGO Group has announced plans to open its eighth store in Poland in the summer of 2025. The new store will be located in Krakow’s Bonarka Shopping Centre, a move aimed at expanding the brand’s presence in the Polish market and strengthening its connection with local LEGO enthusiasts.

“We are thrilled to expand our LEGO Retail footprint in Poland with the opening of our eighth store,” said Kirstie Reid, Marketing Director for LEGO Retail EMEA. “Finding the right location is always a top priority for us, and we are delighted that Bonarka will become our new home in Krakow. We know we have a passionate community of LEGO fans in the city, and we look forward to welcoming builders of all ages. The new store will not only serve as a hub for product launches and special events but also foster a space where our LEGO community can come together and new builders can be inspired.”

Following the recent store opening in Katowice, the LEGO Group is excited to continue its expansion across Poland. “We are very pleased to announce our plans for another store in Poland so soon after our latest opening in Katowice,” said the General Manager and Vice President for Poland, the Baltic States, and Ukraine at the LEGO Group. “Bonarka Shopping Centre is a fantastic location, and we are confident that the new store will become a favorite destination for local LEGO fans.”

Founded in 1932 in Billund, Denmark, the LEGO Group remains a family-owned business with a global presence. Today, LEGO products are sold in over 140 countries, continuing to inspire creativity and play among generations of fans worldwide.

Source: LEGO Group and ISBnews
Photo: LEGO Store Poznań

Future Mind Report: Polish retailers focus on personnel management to cut costs in 2025

A new report from consulting and technology firm Future Mind reveals that 44% of Polish retail companies plan to focus on personnel management as their primary strategy for reducing operating costs in 2025. The Retail Barometer survey indicates that optimizing workforce planning, retraining employees, and cutting overtime expenses are key measures being adopted to enhance efficiency and curb expenditures.

The report highlights that alongside staff management, renegotiating supplier contracts ranks as the second most popular cost-cutting strategy, with 35% of retailers planning to lower expenses through bulk purchasing, contract adjustments, or supplier changes. Process automation follows closely, with 32% of companies considering the implementation of automated cash registers, inventory management systems, and other robotic solutions to streamline operations. Additionally, over a third of respondents are looking to optimize inventory by leveraging artificial intelligence for demand forecasting and minimizing waste.

“Our research indicates that Polish retailers are adopting a pragmatic approach, prioritizing staff management and automation to create a cohesive operational ecosystem,” said Emil Waszkowski, Head of Strategy at Future Mind. “By integrating automated systems that communicate seamlessly, businesses can eliminate information silos, reduce manual workloads, and allow employees to focus on more strategic tasks. This foundation is essential for further implementation of AI-based solutions.”

The study underscores the increasing competition and rapidly evolving consumer preferences in the retail sector, prompting companies to adopt efficient cost-reduction measures to maintain market position. Future Mind’s findings suggest that the ability to balance workforce efficiency with automation will be critical for sustainable growth and improved customer experiences.

The report also notes that automation is gaining traction in the industry, with 21% of surveyed enterprises planning significant automation initiatives aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and employee experience. Meanwhile, 44% of companies intend to adopt automation to a moderate extent, 23.5% plan minimal implementation, and only 6% do not foresee any automation efforts in their operations.

The findings suggest that while automation plays a key role in operational strategies, personnel management remains a top priority. “Retailers are taking a balanced approach, striving to optimize operations while ensuring employee satisfaction and development,” the report states.

The Retail Barometer report was compiled based on a survey of 34 industry experts and decision-makers using the Computer-Assisted Web Interviewing (CAWI) method. Conducted in collaboration with Wiadomości Handlowe, the report offers insights into anticipated trends shaping the retail sector in the coming months.

Source: Future Mind and ISBnews

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