Nové Lido revamp: Updated zoning plan to transform the area with trams and rental apartments

The long-awaited revitalization of the Petržalka Lido, once a popular destination for swimming and leisure activities along the right bank of the Danube River, is finally moving forward with an updated zoning plan. Originally incorporated into the city’s urban development blueprint in 2006, the ambitious plan aimed to transform the area into a thriving hub featuring the Celestean Petržalka center, which encompasses both the Lido and the future Southbank district. However, despite initial enthusiasm, the project remained stagnant for nearly two decades.

Efforts to revive the plan gained momentum in recent years as city planners recognized the need for updated strategies to address the changing urban landscape and community needs. In 2023, Bratislava residents were given the opportunity to provide feedback on proposed changes to the locality, resulting in significant input that contributed to a comprehensive revision of the zoning plan. The updated plan introduces several key elements aimed at enhancing connectivity, sustainability, and livability in the area.

One of the most notable features of the revised plan is the incorporation of a tram line that will provide seamless transportation links between Petržalka and other parts of Bratislava. This new public transport initiative is expected to alleviate traffic congestion, promote eco-friendly mobility, and make the area more accessible for both residents and visitors. The tram network will complement existing infrastructure while encouraging a shift towards sustainable urban transit solutions.

In addition to improved transportation, the updated zoning plan envisions the development of hundreds of new rental apartments designed to accommodate the growing population and meet the increasing demand for modern housing options. These residential units will cater to a diverse range of inhabitants, from young professionals to families, and will be integrated with green spaces, pedestrian-friendly zones, and recreational facilities. Developers are planning a mix of high-rise and mid-rise buildings, ensuring a balanced and aesthetically pleasing urban environment that complements the natural beauty of the Danube waterfront.

The revitalization also aims to enhance the cultural and social appeal of New Lido by incorporating public amenities such as parks, waterfront promenades, cultural venues, and retail spaces. Plans include the creation of vibrant public squares, outdoor dining areas, and entertainment hubs that will foster a lively atmosphere and attract both locals and tourists. Additionally, developers are emphasizing eco-friendly construction practices, energy-efficient buildings, and sustainable water management systems to align with contemporary environmental standards.

Despite the prolonged delays, city officials and developers remain optimistic about the potential of the New Lido project to become a landmark development for Bratislava. With spatial planning nearing completion, the city is poised to witness a transformation that will redefine the right bank of the Danube as a dynamic, attractive, and sustainable urban district.

While the exact timeline for the project’s implementation remains uncertain, officials anticipate that initial construction phases could commence within the next few years. The revitalization of New Lido is expected to significantly contribute to Bratislava’s economic and social growth, offering new opportunities for business, leisure, and community engagement.

Photo: Nové Lido, JTRE

Poland’s rental housing market expected to stabilize in 2025, Otodom Reports

The Polish rental housing market is poised for a year of stability in 2025, following a period of dynamic changes in the previous year. According to an analysis by Otodom, while the supply of rental apartments is expected to continue declining, the pace of this decrease will be more moderate compared to 2024. The market is showing signs of stabilization, with rental prices remaining largely steady—rising by just 0.2% over the past year, significantly below the inflation rate.

December 2024 saw a further reduction in available rental listings. At the start of the month, Otodom recorded 22,900 active rental listings, which dropped to 20,900 by the end of the year, reflecting a 9% decline. Landlords added 11,800 new listings, which was 22% lower than in November, while 17,600 listings were closed—marking a 12.5% monthly drop. The most significant reductions in available rental properties were observed in cities such as Tri-City (-15%), Lublin, and Gniezno (-12%).

The overall downward trend in rental availability persisted throughout 2024, with exceptions during the summer holiday period and September, which experienced a temporary surge in tenant activity and rental offers. Otodom’s analyst, Milena Chełchowska, anticipates a slight rebound in available listings in early 2025, providing tenants with a broader selection.

Smaller cities experienced the most significant decline in rental listings by the end of 2024, with Olsztyn seeing a 60% drop, followed by Zielona Góra at 45%, and Szczecin and Opole at nearly 40%. In Warsaw, the decline was more moderate at 11% year-on-year.

The seasonal decrease in rental interest was also evident in December, with a 10% decline in searches compared to November. However, demand was still 7% higher compared to December 2023. The average rent across Poland reached approximately PLN 3,700 per month, a 2% increase from the previous year. When adjusted for inflation, which stood at 4.3% in November, real rental prices in most cities showed a year-on-year decrease. Notable exceptions included Zielona Góra (+17%), Olsztyn (+11%), and Bydgoszcz (+8%).

Affordability remains a challenge for many tenants, as lower-priced rentals are becoming scarcer. In December 2023, nearly half (49%) of rental searches targeted properties under PLN 3,000 per month, while 13% were for high-end rentals above PLN 6,000. By the end of 2024, interest in lower-priced properties had dropped to 44%, with demand for premium rentals rising to 15%.

The effects of government policies continued to shape the market in 2024. In the first half of the year, the “Safe Loan 2%” program led to a significant release of rental properties, as many tenants opted to purchase their own homes. However, since May 2024, this trend began to slow, with rental supply steadily decreasing, though still remaining above pre-program levels.

Looking ahead to 2025, a more gradual decline in rental availability is expected. Demand also showed a steady decrease in 2024, falling by an average of 3% month-on-month. The relatively stable rental prices, which rose only marginally over the year, suggest a new balance in the market. Barring any unforeseen external disruptions, this equilibrium is likely to persist, benefiting both landlords and tenants by enabling more predictable long-term planning.

Source: Otodom and ISBnews

Poland proposes new law to strengthen employee protection against mobbing

The Polish government has introduced a draft law aimed at enhancing employee protection against workplace mobbing while also safeguarding employers from false accusations. The Ministry of Family, Labour, and Social Policy has sent the proposal for public consultation, signaling a major update to legislation that has remained unchanged for over two decades.

According to Agnieszka Dziemianowicz-Bąk, Minister of Family, Labour, and Social Policy, the proposed amendments are necessary to reflect modern workplace realities. “After 21 years of the current regulations, it is time for changes that are better suited to today’s conditions. The new law aims to provide stronger protection for employees against undesirable behavior at work while ensuring that employers are not subjected to unfounded allegations,” she stated.

A key aspect of the draft law is the simplification of the legal definition of mobbing, focusing on persistent harassment of an employee. The new definition will encompass various forms of harassment, including physical, verbal, and non-verbal behaviors. It clarifies that mobbing must be recurrent or permanent, and excludes incidental or one-off actions from its scope. Additionally, the draft emphasizes that mobbing can originate from various sources, such as supervisors, colleagues, or subordinates, whether acting individually or as a group.

One of the significant elements of the proposal is the introduction of a “rational victim” model, which aims to differentiate between genuine cases of mobbing and subjective perceptions. This approach seeks to ensure fair assessment and to prevent the misuse of mobbing allegations.

The proposed changes also include an increase in the minimum compensation threshold for employees who have suffered harm due to workplace mobbing. The draft mandates that employers establish clear anti-mobbing and anti-discrimination policies, which must be outlined in company regulations or official notices. Employers will be required to implement preventive measures, promptly address reported cases, and offer support to affected employees.

To balance the interests of both employees and employers, the draft law includes provisions that exempt employers from legal liability in cases where mobbing did not originate from the employee’s direct supervisor, provided that the employer had implemented effective preventive measures.

The Ministry emphasized that the proposed legal reforms aim to create a healthier and more productive work environment while ensuring fair treatment for all parties involved. The public consultation process is expected to provide valuable feedback before the legislation is finalized and submitted for parliamentary approval.

Source: ISBnews

Bank Millennium forecasts Poland’s GDP growth to accelerate to 3.7% in 2025

Poland’s economic growth is expected to accelerate to 3.7% year-on-year (YoY) in 2025, driven primarily by an increase in fixed asset investments, following an estimated growth of 2.8% YoY in 2024, according to Bank Millennium’s latest forecast.

Despite a challenging global economic environment, Poland’s economic performance in 2024 was relatively strong. However, GDP growth fell slightly short of initial projections. “We had initially forecast 3% growth for last year, but we now estimate it to be around 2.8%,” said Grzegorz Maliszewski, Bank Millennium’s chief economist, during a webinar. He emphasized that despite this minor shortfall, Poland continues to stand out positively within the European Union. Over the past four years, the Polish economy has grown by nearly 14%, significantly outperforming the EU average of 5%, and far surpassing Germany, which showed minimal growth over the same period.

Looking ahead to 2025, Bank Millennium anticipates a stronger growth trajectory, primarily driven by increased investments. “We expect growth to accelerate to 3.7%, with a notable shift in its structure compared to 2024,” Maliszewski noted. The anticipated acceleration is expected to be largely supported by inflows from the National Recovery Plan (KPO) and increased utilization of EU structural funds under the new financial framework. These resources are projected to boost public investments, while the private sector is also expected to ramp up spending on machinery, equipment, and automation initiatives.

Consumption will continue to play a key role in economic expansion, although it is unlikely to see a significant acceleration compared to previous years. The bank also pointed out that low levels of fixed asset investment remain a weak spot in Poland’s economy, with 2024 witnessing further declines due to the end of the previous EU financial perspective. However, expectations for 2025 remain optimistic, supported by renewed EU funding streams.

On the external trade front, Bank Millennium foresees a slightly less favorable contribution from net exports to GDP growth. While an expected recovery in Germany will boost Polish exports, it is also anticipated to drive higher imports, leading to a marginally negative net effect on economic growth.

Overall, the bank remains cautiously optimistic about Poland’s economic prospects for 2025, with investment-led growth and stable consumption providing key pillars for expansion. “The outlook for 2025 appears more promising than the previous year, reflecting a more balanced and diversified economic structure,” Maliszewski concluded.

Source: Bank Millennium and ISBnews

Wrocław to host first zero-emission business park with completion set for 2025

Ideal Idea is in the final stages of expanding its City Park Wrocław complex, set to become the first zero-emission Small Business Units (SBU) business park in both the city and the region. This state-of-the-art development, which seamlessly integrates high-class office spaces with high-storage warehouse modules, is scheduled for completion in 2025.

The latest phase of the project has seen the completion of the building’s façade and external landscaping. The next major step involves the construction of Building H6, which will feature highly flexible warehouse modules starting from 600 square meters and office spaces from 120 square meters. These spaces are designed to cater to businesses across various industries, offering customized solutions while ensuring full operational independence. Upon completion, the total area of the business park will reach 22,000 square meters, doubling Ideal Idea’s total offering in Wrocław to 44,000 square meters.

The development incorporates a range of cutting-edge sustainable technologies, including heat pumps, photovoltaic installations, electric vehicle charging stations, and gray water recovery systems. These eco-friendly solutions will significantly reduce operational costs while helping tenants lower their carbon footprint and achieve their sustainability goals. Furthermore, these features will enhance tenants’ Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) ratings, boosting their non-financial performance indicators. The entire facility will be awarded the prestigious BREEAM Excellent certification, reflecting its adherence to the highest environmental standards.

Strategically located near Mikołaj Kopernik Airport and major transportation routes, including the A4 motorway, S8 expressway, and DK94 national road, City Park Wrocław provides an optimal location for businesses seeking high-growth potential. The area benefits from excellent public transportation links to the city center, and is rapidly evolving with the addition of new hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets, making it a prime destination for businesses looking to expand their presence in Wrocław.

Ideal Idea’s City Park Wrocław is poised to set new benchmarks in sustainable commercial real estate, offering innovative, energy-efficient solutions that cater to the evolving needs of modern businesses.

Sonae Sierra strengthens position in German retail market with strong 2024 performance

Sonae Sierra has demonstrated remarkable growth in the German retail sector in 2024, achieving increased sales and footfall across its managed shopping centers. The international real estate specialist reported a 2.5% year-on-year increase in sales and a 1% rise in visitor numbers across its portfolio, reinforcing its position as a leading retail property manager in Germany.

Following its second-place ranking in the Shopping Center Performance Report (SCPR) 2024, Sonae Sierra secured an impressive 111 lease agreements and extensions totaling 33,600 square meters in flagship locations such as Alexa in Berlin, Europa-Galerie Saarbrücken, Mercaden Böblingen, Mercado, Quarree Wandsbek, Ottensen in Hamburg, and Münster Arkaden. The occupancy rate across these centers stood at 94% by the end of 2024, with top performers Alexa, Mercado, and Münster Arkaden achieving an outstanding 99% occupancy rate.

Sonae Sierra’s expertise in tailored center and property management services has played a pivotal role in the strong performance of these shopping centers. Their commitment to optimizing tenant mix, enhancing retail experiences, and maintaining high operational standards has attracted major investors, including Union Investment Real Estate, Aachener Grundvermögen, and Hanse Merkur Grundvermögen, all of whom have extended their management contracts with Sierra.

Christine Hager, Director of Property Management at Sonae Sierra Germany, highlighted the company’s ability to deliver exceptional results through personalized strategies that meet the evolving needs of tenants and business partners. She emphasized that the trust placed in Sonae Sierra by both national and international retailers underscores the company’s commitment to excellence in the industry.

The leasing success of 2024 was marked by high-profile tenants such as Stradivarius, Pull&Bear, Bershka, and the non-food discounter Action. These brands expanded their presence in key locations such as Alexa in Berlin and Europa-Galerie Saarbrücken. Additionally, several anchor tenants, including H&M, Thalia, C&A, dm Drogerie, TK Maxx, and P&C, renewed their contracts, further strengthening the retail offering and reinforcing customer loyalty.

Dirk von der Ahé, Leasing Manager at Sonae Sierra Germany, emphasized the importance of strategic leasing in maintaining vibrant shopping environments. He noted that Sierra’s leasing services, introduced separately from management mandates in 2024, have been instrumental in attracting new tenants and curating an optimal retail mix.

Throughout the year, flagship properties across Germany achieved notable milestones. Alexa in Berlin welcomed 19 new tenants, including major brands like Skechers, Lindt, Lacoste, and Union Berlin. In Saarbrücken, the Europa-Galerie expanded its fashion segment with the introduction of Pull&Bear and Bershka, while Mercaden Böblingen celebrated its tenth anniversary with new openings such as Telekom, Takko Fashion, and the innovative “Cool! Arena.”

In Hamburg, Mercado Altona saw 99% of its space leased, with new additions such as Ruff’s Burger, Blume2000, and Dragon Wok. Meanwhile, Münster Arcaden secured 14 new leases, retaining key tenants such as dm Drogerie and Manufactum, and achieving near-full occupancy. The culinary landscape of Quarree Wandsbek expanded with Café Amaya and Dil India, with further additions planned for 2025.

Looking ahead, Sonae Sierra continues to focus on delivering exceptional value to its tenants and stakeholders, driving growth and innovation in the German retail property market.

New truck weighing and speed measurement systems launched on D4 motorway Prague to Písek

As of Wednesday, January 22, 2025, the newly constructed sections of the D4 motorway will be equipped with high-speed weighing and speed measurement systems, marking a significant advancement in road safety and traffic monitoring. The deployment of these technologies has been approved by the traffic police, who have assessed the methodology and are legally responsible for speed enforcement.

Two high-speed weighbridges have been installed on the D4 motorway—one in the Prague to Písek direction and the other in the opposite direction. These advanced Weight-in-Motion (WIM) systems allow for the real-time monitoring of a vehicle’s total weight, individual axle load, and various other parameters without causing any disruption to traffic flow.

Drivers found exceeding the weight limit will receive an instant notification via electronic information boards displaying their license plate number and the excess weight in tonnes. This immediate feedback aims to deter overloaded vehicles, ensuring the longevity and quality of the newly completed motorway infrastructure.

The high-speed weighing system will operate 24/7, initially for statistical data collection. However, at predetermined intervals, a penalty enforcement regime will be activated, resulting in fines for hauliers who exceed the legal weight limits. The enforcement of these penalties will be managed by the municipal authorities in Příbram and Písek, with each city overseeing one weighbridge’s administrative process.

In addition to the weighbridges, the sectional speed measurement system has been implemented along the D4 motorway. Eight designated sections in each direction are equipped with speed enforcement cameras. Responsibility for enforcement is divided between the two administrative regions—Příbram in Central Bohemia and Písek in South Bohemia—each handling four sections.

Speed monitoring will be conducted selectively, with one section in each direction being monitored at any given time. The selected sections will rotate periodically, and drivers will be notified of active speed enforcement through variable message signs displaying the message “Sectional speed measurement in progress.” These notifications will be displayed unless other mandatory traffic alerts take precedence.

The speed limits for vehicles using the motorway remain as follows: 130 km/h for vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tonnes and buses, while heavier motor vehicles exceeding 3.5 tonnes must adhere to an 80 km/h limit.

Authorities believe that the introduction of these advanced monitoring systems will significantly enhance road safety, reduce vehicle overloading, and encourage compliance with speed limits, contributing to a safer and more efficient driving experience on the D4 motorway.

Avison Young: Poland’s real estate market rebounds in 2024 with record investment volumes

Poland’s real estate investment market experienced a strong resurgence in 2024, signaling a return to stability and growth after a period of stagnation. The total investment volume for the year reached an impressive €5 billion, more than doubling the previous year’s figures. This remarkable turnaround was driven by lower interest rates introduced by the European Central Bank (ECB) and the US Federal Reserve (FED) during the summer, which made financing more accessible and reignited investor confidence.

The fourth quarter alone saw investment levels surpassing the total volume recorded in all of 2023, fueled by a resurgence of major transactions, including portfolio deals and high-value single-asset sales. The ten largest transactions accounted for nearly 50% of the total market volume across the 130 deals completed throughout the year. The return of large-scale transactions mirrors market activity levels last seen in 2022.

Office Sector: Landmark Deals and Growing Regional Interest

The office sector contributed one-third of the total investment volume in 2024, with Warsaw once again taking center stage. The standout transaction of the year was the sale of Warsaw UNIT, which became the largest single-asset office deal in Europe. The sector also witnessed the divestment of a 49% stake in the CPI portfolio, which represented over a quarter of the office sector’s total volume.

In addition to strong activity in the capital, regional markets gained traction, with 13 of the 45 office transactions occurring outside Warsaw. This reflects growing investor interest in more attractively priced properties in cities such as Kraków, driven by increasing demand for office space outside the capital.

A notable trend emerging in 2024 was the acquisition of office buildings by their tenants. Companies such as Enter Air, GPoland, and Ryan Air secured ownership of their workspaces, reflecting a shift in the investment landscape. Domestic investors played a significant role in the market, accounting for nearly 40% of office transactions.

Retail Sector: Strong Demand for Prime Shopping Centers

Retail investment activity rebounded significantly, with the sector representing 32% of total transaction volume, marking a substantial increase from the previous year. The year’s total retail investment reached €1.6 billion, the highest since 2019.

Key deals included the acquisition of Magnolia Park in Wrocław and Silesia City Center in Katowice by NEPI Rockcastle, which accounted for 50% of the retail market’s total volume. The sector also saw activity in regional shopping centers, with transactions such as Galeria Wisła in Płock and Centrum Galardia in Starachowice, both brokered by Avison Young.

Retail parks continued to attract investor interest, accounting for half of all transactions in the sector, with demand remaining steady despite competition from larger shopping centers.

Industrial Sector: Portfolio Deals Drive Market Growth

The industrial and logistics sector maintained its position as a key driver of investment in Poland, recording a total volume of €1.3 billion, with portfolio transactions making up over half of the total. Seven major multi-asset deals, including two of Pan-European scale, demonstrated the continued attractiveness of Poland’s logistics market for international investors.

The narrowing price gap among market participants is expected to further accelerate growth in the industrial sector, with the rising importance of nearshoring adding to the positive outlook. However, disparities in pricing between ESG-compliant properties and older assets remain a challenge.

Private Rented Sector (PRS): A Decade of Growth and New Records

Poland’s PRS market marked its 10-year anniversary in 2024, having delivered nearly 20,000 completed units to date. The year saw the addition of 5,900 new units across 28 projects, with regional cities playing an increasingly important role in the sector’s growth.

The total PRS investment volume reached a record €344 million, with the majority of deals completed by existing market players such as Resi 4 Rent, Vantage Rent, and Fundusz Mieszkań na Wynajem, which together account for over half of the market. The sector saw its first major international entrant with Sweden-based Lew Investment acquiring the Urban Home project in Kraków.

Outlook for 2025: Positive Trends Expected

Looking ahead, Poland remains an attractive destination for real estate investors, driven by strong economic fundamentals and an improving financing environment. Interest rate reductions are expected to continue, accompanied by a relaxation of lending policies by banks.

Investment liquidity is anticipated to improve across all asset classes, with a growing preference for smaller real estate formats offering long-term lease agreements. The entry of REIT-type companies from Western Europe, Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), and the Baltic region is expected to further diversify the market.

As Poland’s real estate sector continues to evolve, 2025 is poised to bring new opportunities, with market transactions expected to define new yield levels and investment strategies adapting to changing economic conditions.

Authors: Paulina Brzeszkiewicz-Kuczyńska (Research & Data Manager) and Agnieszka Bykowska (Research Analyst) – Avison Young

Scott.Weber Workspace unveils premium flexible offices in historic Prague landmark

Scott.Weber Workspace is set to open its largest and most ambitious flexible office project to date at Náměstí Republiky 7, Prague 1, breathing new life into a historic building meticulously renovated by Crestyl. The prestigious address, which has hosted banks, insurance companies, and even the Laurin & Klement car company over the past century, will now serve as a modern workspace hub that merges history with cutting-edge office design. The official opening is scheduled for the second quarter of 2025.

The eight-story building, located in the heart of Prague, has undergone a comprehensive refurbishment under Crestyl’s NR7 project at a total investment of over one billion crowns. The transformation has resulted in 4,630 square meters of premium office space featuring 90 private offices, 17 meeting rooms, a stunning atrium, rooftop terraces, a winter garden, and unique event spaces.

“This project represents our vision for the future of work, where functionality meets inspiration,” said Adam Zvada, CEO of Scott.Weber Workspace. “We are creating an environment that enhances both professional productivity and personal well-being.”

Crestyl’s renovation focused on preserving the building’s neo-Baroque heritage while incorporating modern design elements. “Our goal was to restore the building to its original splendor and ensure it remains a prestigious location for businesses,” said Simon Johnson, Director at Crestyl.

Beyond offering a workspace, Náměstí Republiky 7 is positioned as a lifestyle destination that integrates work with leisure and community engagement. The development boasts world-class dining experiences, wellness facilities, and an engaging events program aimed at enhancing workplace productivity and personal fulfillment. The complex’s strategic location provides excellent accessibility via public transport and proximity to major business hubs.

Architectural firm Chapman Taylor, known for projects such as the W Hotel Prague, led the design concept, balancing modern functionality with the building’s historic character. “We aimed to create a space that fosters inspiration and collaboration while respecting the building’s legacy,” explained Filip Pokorný, Director at Chapman Taylor.

Scott.Weber Workspace’s partnership with Prochazka & Partners, Wilsons Law Firm, and the building’s owner, Crestyl, was crucial in securing and shaping the lease agreement. Radek Prochazka, Managing Partner at Prochazka & Partners, expressed excitement about the project, highlighting the seamless fusion of history and modernity that makes the property a standout addition to Prague’s office market.

Jana Hogg, Real Estate & Development Director at Scott.Weber Workspace, emphasized that every aspect of the building is designed to offer an extraordinary daily experience, from a morning workout in the former bank vault to a rooftop breakfast with panoramic views of Prague’s skyline.

The unique flexible office model offered at Náměstí Republiky 7 is set to exceed expectations by providing services akin to a luxury hotel, including on-site wellness facilities, personal care services, and high-end gastronomy led by Chef Mark Koucký.

“This project not only modernizes a historic gem but prepares it for the evolving demands of flexible working,” said Daniel Navrátil, partner at Wilsons. “It’s rare to see such a seamless blend of tradition and forward-thinking office solutions.”

Valmet Automotive expands Żary factory with Panattoni’s BTS project

Industrial real estate developer Panattoni and Valmet Automotive sp. z o.o., a key supplier to the automotive industry, have officially launched the expansion of Valmet’s manufacturing facility in Żary. The milestone was marked with a cornerstone-laying ceremony for an 8,800-square-meter build-to-suit (BTS) facility, attended by company executives, local government representatives, and key stakeholders.

Among the distinguished guests were Remigiusz Grześkowiak, President of the Management Board at Valmet Automotive sp. z o.o., Hubert Hoffman, President of Commercecon, Maciej Zawada, Head of Business Development at Panattoni BTS, alongside Żary Mayor Edyta Gajda and Deputy Starost Wojciech Kasprów.

In his remarks, Grześkowiak emphasized the significance of the investment in strengthening the company’s market position in Europe. “Thanks to our ongoing success, we are embarking on a new chapter with the expansion of the Żary factory. This development will not only boost our production capacity but will also create up to 350 new jobs, reinforcing our role in the European automotive market,” he stated.

The project, spearheaded by Panattoni, will expand the existing plant with state-of-the-art production and logistics space, including social and administrative facilities. This expansion aims to enhance operational efficiency and meet the growing demand for Valmet’s advanced automotive components.

Maciej Zawada, representing Panattoni BTS, highlighted the company’s expertise in delivering tailor-made production facilities that align with their clients’ growth strategies. “Panattoni’s BTS department specializes in creating customized solutions that adapt to the evolving needs of our partners. The Żary expansion is a prime example of our commitment to delivering flexible and scalable infrastructure,” he noted. Zawada further emphasized that the construction process will be conducted in parallel with existing operations to ensure uninterrupted production.

The expansion is expected to be completed by spring 2025, with production at the new facility set to commence in the fourth quarter.

Valmet Automotive sp. z o.o. specializes in the production of convertible roof systems and kinematic systems for the automotive sector, including active spoilers and charging flaps for electric vehicles. The expanded Żary plant will manufacture advanced aerodynamic systems designed at the company’s R&D center in Osnabrück, Germany. These systems contribute to extending the driving range of electric vehicles and improving fuel efficiency in traditional combustion engine vehicles.

The strategic investment underscores Valmet Automotive’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in automotive engineering, while Panattoni’s expertise in delivering customized industrial spaces ensures that the facility will meet the company’s future growth needs.

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