Brno seeks partner for Science and Technology Park development in Černovická Sandpit

Brno has taken a significant step toward transforming the Černovická sandpit, a 16-hectare site valued at over half a billion crowns, into a cutting-edge science and technology park. City deputies have decided to pursue a concession partnership for the project, allowing Brno to retain control over the site’s specific development, rather than opting for a public auction.

The land, located in the Černovice district, is designated as a commercial area in Brno’s new zoning plan. Two companies, CTP and Kompan, had already expressed interest in purchasing the site. CTP views the location as strategically important due to its proximity to the existing CTPark at Černovické terraces, while Kompan had planned to build a plant there.

City Councillor Jiří Oliva (SOCDEM) emphasized that a concession process, while more complex and time-consuming than an auction, ensures the city can dictate the site’s purpose. “The vision is for science, research, and innovation, but we need to define precisely what that entails. Will it be laboratories, offices, or something else? This process allows us to determine that,” Oliva explained.

Deputies also approved agreements to settle property issues at the sandpit, a fragmented site with multiple owners. A 2022 cooperation agreement between the city and other landowners, including CTP Invest and Lukáš Málek, laid the groundwork for unifying ownership to enable coherent development.

“Currently, the area is unusable due to fragmented ownership. Agreements will allow land exchanges and purchases to create cohesive units ready for development,” Oliva said. The arrangements will involve land in several city districts, including Černovice, Tuřany, Komín, Líšeň, and Slatina.

Parts of the site will be reserved for environmental purposes, with plans for a large park to become city property. Other areas will be allocated for commercial development, green spaces, and transport infrastructure.

The Černovická sandpit is owned by Brno’s municipal district of Černovice. However, its management has faced internal disputes. In 2022, Viktor Mrňous became managing director after a police intervention at the site. This year, the city appointed a second managing director, Robert Quitta, to handle property issues. Reports of disagreements between the two directors have raised concerns.

Černovice Mayor Petra Quittová (no relation to Robert Quitta) acknowledged the tensions, stating efforts are underway to resolve the situation. She plans to discuss options with city officials to ensure smooth operations.

Brno will now draft concession terms and identify a suitable partner through a transparent process. While the city’s vision for a science and technology park takes shape, the unification of ownership and the resolution of management disputes will be critical to unlocking the site’s potential.

This initiative represents Brno’s commitment to fostering innovation and sustainable development while ensuring careful stewardship of valuable urban land.

Source: CTK
Photo: CTK

Skanska sells P180 office building in Warsaw for €100 million

Skanska has announced the sale of its P180 office building in Warsaw to Investika Real Estate Fund and its partner, BUD Holdings, as part of a joint venture. The transaction, valued at €100 million, underscores the growing appeal of sustainable office spaces in the capital.

Located near the Wilanowska metro station, the 15-story P180 building offers 32,000 square meters of A-class office space. Its strategic location and state-of-the-art infrastructure have made it a prime choice for tenants from IT, technology, and professional services sectors, including notable Scandinavian companies.

P180 is not only recognized for its prime location but also for its pioneering sustainability efforts. It was the first project in Central and Eastern Europe to use low-carbon concrete during construction, reducing CO2 emissions by 42% compared to traditional materials. Recycled and locally sourced materials were also incorporated into the building’s development.

Adrian Karczewicz, head of divestments at Skanska Commercial Development Europe, highlighted the significance of the sale: “The P180 sale demonstrates that Skanska’s investments not only attract top-tier tenants but are also highly valued by investors. This is another successful transaction in Warsaw this year, reaffirming the value of our developments and the strength of our business strategy.”

Investika, a Czech investment company founded in 2015, has quickly established itself as a major player in the real estate market. As of November 30, 2024, it managed assets worth over CZK 27 billion and served nearly 98,000 investors across its five funds. Its flagship product, the Investika Real Estate Fund, is the largest non-bank real estate fund for retail investors in the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

BUD Holdings, a Luxembourg-based private equity firm, specializes in equity investments with a focus on real estate assets.

Skanska’s office division in Poland has been a leader in sustainable office development since entering the market in 1997. The sale of P180 follows a series of successful transactions in Warsaw this year, cementing its reputation as a developer of choice for environmentally conscious, premium office spaces.

The P180 sale not only showcases the building’s strong market appeal but also highlights the increasing demand for sustainable, well-located office properties in Warsaw’s competitive real estate landscape.

Tivolihotel rebranded as Hilton Garden Inn after €4 million modernisation

Union Investment has completed a €4 million modernisation of a prominent hotel in Innsbruck, transforming it into a Hilton Garden Inn. The renovation and rebranding mark a significant upgrade for the property, which has been part of the immofonds 1 portfolio since 2015.

Originally built in 2011, the hotel operated as a Ramada Hotel until July 2021 before transitioning to the HR Group’s management and being temporarily branded as Tivolihotel Innsbruck. Following a comprehensive renovation between November 2023 and October 2024, the property has now reopened under the globally recognised Hilton Garden Inn banner.

Hilton has entered a franchise agreement with the HR Group to operate the hotel, aligning the property with Hilton’s higher standards. The modernisation reflects Union Investment’s strategic approach to active asset management, enhancing the value of immofonds 1, an open-ended real estate fund marketed exclusively in Austria.

“The modernisation is a testament to the potential that active asset management can unlock. By repositioning the hotel with a globally recognised brand, we have created significant added value for immofonds 1,” said Thorsten Purkus, Head of Asset Management Hospitality at Union Investment.

The €4 million refurbishment encompassed all 159 guest rooms, as well as the hotel’s public spaces, restaurant, and bar areas. A key highlight is the new Tivoli restaurant, set to open on the 11th floor. Offering regional cuisine, the restaurant features an exclusive terrace with breathtaking panoramic views of Innsbruck and the Alps.

The modernisation also included the addition of a state-of-the-art seminar room, catering to conferences and smaller events. With its fresh new look and upgraded facilities, the hotel now meets the elevated expectations of Hilton Garden Inn guests.

The Hilton Garden Inn stands out for its distinctive architecture and prime location south of Innsbruck’s historic city centre. Positioned directly opposite the Olympia World complex, it is just steps away from the Olympia ice stadium and Tivoli football stadium. The hotel offers convenient access to the airport, train station, and key city attractions, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers.

With its transformation complete, the Hilton Garden Inn promises to set a new benchmark for hospitality in Innsbruck, combining modern amenities, exceptional views, and the trusted service of a global hotel brand.

Business travel shifts focus on strategic meetings

The latest research from International Workplace Group (IWG), the world’s largest provider of flexible workspace solutions under brands like Regus and Spaces, highlights significant changes in the nature and frequency of business travel. As companies adapt to a post-pandemic world, rising costs, geopolitical uncertainties, and environmental concerns are reshaping how executives approach corporate travel.

The study, which surveyed over 500 business leaders, underscores a shift in priorities. Executives are now reserving business travel budgets for high-stakes, strategically important meetings, while routine discussions among global participants increasingly take place online. Over three-quarters (77%) of respondents credited advancements in digital technology for enabling routine “business as usual” meetings to be conducted virtually, improving efficiency and reducing the need for travel.

However, technology has not eliminated the need for in-person meetings. A significant 87% of CEOs affirmed that face-to-face interactions remain irreplaceable for critical moments such as signing major deals or strengthening partnerships, where trust and relationship-building are paramount.

Financial considerations are a key factor influencing travel decisions. A third of business leaders cited escalating costs as a significant concern, with airfares up 38% and hotel prices climbing by at least 82% compared to pre-pandemic levels, according to research by Harris Williams. With costs expected to rise further in 2025, 77% of CEOs indicated they would continue to leverage virtual platforms to limit business trips, focusing travel on essential engagements.

Geopolitical uncertainty has also reshaped corporate travel patterns. One in five leaders reported that geopolitical tensions, alongside changes in global health regulations and visa policies, have significantly influenced how their companies plan and prioritize travel. These factors add another layer of complexity to the decision-making process for international travel.

As businesses intensify their commitment to sustainability, environmental concerns are playing a growing role in shaping travel policies. Three-quarters (75%) of leaders noted that hybrid working models and online meeting platforms have enabled them to cut back on environmentally unfriendly trips. Large organizations, in particular, are feeling the pressure to align corporate travel policies with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals, making every trip count.

Efficiency has become a cornerstone of modern business travel. Flexible workspaces, such as those offered by IWG, are enabling leaders to stay productive between meetings. Three-quarters (75%) of respondents reported that business travel has become more efficient, with over half (61%) traveling less frequently but staying longer. Many are extending their trips to include additional meetings (26%) or attending conferences and industry events to maximize the value of their journeys (23%).

Business travel is also evolving to include elements of leisure. More than 87% of corporate leaders are using extra time to explore their destinations and engage with local culture. A quarter (24%) have combined work trips with vacations, embracing the “workcation” trend. Encouragingly, this shift isn’t limited to executives—74% of leaders now support their employees in working remotely from abroad to take advantage of travel opportunities.

“Advancements in digital technology, coupled with rising international travel costs, geopolitical uncertainties, and environmental concerns, have transformed the landscape of business travel,” said Mark Dixon, CEO of International Workplace Group. “Executives are now prioritizing travel for the most strategically important meetings, such as major business deals or nurturing significant relationships. For these occasions, technology can never replace the value of in-person interaction.”

As the corporate world continues to embrace hybrid working and digital innovation, business travel is becoming more selective, efficient, and sustainable, signaling a lasting departure from pre-pandemic norms.

BursztyNova restaurant opens at Saski Crescent

The culinary map of central Warsaw has gained a fresh and exciting addition with the opening of BursztyNova, a new restaurant located on Królewska Street, near Marszałkowska Street. Nestled on the ground floor of the recently modernized boutique office building Saski Crescent, this 400-square-meter venue is set to become a hotspot for both Warsaw residents and tourists, offering a unique blend of fine dining and event hosting.

BursztyNova is no ordinary restaurant—it’s a tribute to Poland’s long-aged cheeses, such as Amber, Ruby, and Sapphire, which have earned a reputation rivaling cheeses from traditional dairy powerhouses like the Netherlands. At BursztyNova, these high-class cheeses take center stage on the menu, appearing as both standalone tasting experiences and as ingredients in a diverse array of dishes. The dining experience is complemented by an expertly curated selection of cocktails, mocktails, and fine wines.

The restaurant’s semi-open kitchen allows guests to observe the chefs at work, adding a sense of craftsmanship to the dining experience. To enhance its ambiance, BursztyNova also hosts intimate live music performances, making it one of Warsaw’s most distinctive dining venues.

With seating for over 100 guests, BursztyNova offers a flexible layout that can be divided into smaller rooms, making it an ideal venue for intimate gatherings, corporate events, and training sessions. The interior design harmonizes with the modern, lobby-like atmosphere of Saski Crescent, evoking the elegance of high-end hotels.

“We’ve relocated BursztyNova to better serve our guests and expand our offerings,” explained Agnieszka Kamela, Vice President of Spomlek Cooperative Dairy, the restaurant’s parent company. “Our aim is not only to deliver exceptional dishes and promote Polish cheeses but also to provide a space for events and celebrations. This new location gives us the opportunity to create unforgettable memories for our guests.”

BursztyNova’s opening is part of CA Immo’s efforts to make Saski Crescent more than just an office building. In addition to offering premium Class A office space, the building is now a destination for gastronomy and lifestyle services.

“The opening of BursztyNova aligns with our vision for Saski Crescent as a multi-functional space that caters to tenants and the broader community,” said Dawid Wątorski, Senior Leasing Manager at CA Immo Poland. “This restaurant, alongside the Aromat Bakery outlet, allows visitors to experience Saski Crescent’s unique atmosphere and enjoy top-tier amenities.”

Saski Crescent itself has recently undergone a significant transformation. Located at 16 Królewska Street, it provides approximately 16,000 square meters of state-of-the-art office space and has attracted tenants like a global IT company, DORACO, and GN Poland. The building boasts numerous certifications, including WELL pre-certification, WiredScore Platinum, and a pending BREEAM sustainability certification. With advanced building management systems, recycled materials used in renovations, and energy-efficient features, Saski Crescent exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to urban development.

As part of its services, BursztyNova offers a special lunch menu tailored for office employees and has introduced a dedicated app for easy access to menus and promotions. This innovative approach ensures that Saski Crescent remains not just a workplace but a hub for leisure and culinary excellence in the heart of Warsaw.

Skanska to build $435M Medical Campus for Lee Health in Fort Myers

With Florida’s population growth driving demand for advanced healthcare facilities, Skanska USA Building has secured a $435 million contract with Lee Health to construct a state-of-the-art medical campus in Fort Myers. Situated in one of the fastest-growing regions in the United States, this project is designed to meet the increasing healthcare needs of the local community. Construction is set to begin in early 2025.

The 52-acre medical campus, designed by Flad Architects, will feature a five-story, 416,000-square-foot hospital and a 125,000-square-foot medical office building. The hospital will include 10 operating rooms, up to 168 patient rooms, 44 emergency department beds, and a central energy plant to ensure uninterrupted power for critical healthcare operations. The medical office building will house an ambulatory surgery center equipped with cutting-edge surgical technologies and a range of specialty clinics dedicated to orthopedics, spine care, rheumatology, and infectious diseases. Skanska’s overall project scope spans more than 560,000 square feet and includes a rehabilitation gymnasium and other advanced healthcare facilities.

“We are honored to once again partner with Lee Health to deliver a transformative healthcare destination that will serve the community’s growing needs,” said Bob Kramer, Vice President and Account Manager for Skanska’s Florida building operations. “Our commitment is to build resilient, innovative healthcare facilities that will stand the test of time.”

This project underscores Skanska’s expertise in delivering resilient healthcare infrastructure. The company’s past projects in the region, including the Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida and Gulf Coast Medical Center, demonstrated exceptional durability during Hurricane Ian in 2022, enabling uninterrupted critical care during one of Florida’s most severe storms.

Skanska’s growing portfolio in Florida includes notable healthcare projects such as the ICU expansion at Lee Health Cape Coral Hospital, Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute, and the Gulf Coast Medical Center expansion in Fort Myers. Current projects under construction include the Jackson Health System emergency department renovation in Miami and the new Orlando Health Lakeland Highlands Hospital.

The Fort Myers campus is scheduled for completion in 2028 and reflects a broader trend of healthcare expansion across Florida as providers race to meet the demands of a rapidly growing population.

For media inquiries or to arrange an interview with Bob Kramer about Florida’s healthcare construction trends and the importance of resilient design, please contact Ashley at [contact information].

Good Point V achieves BREEAM Excellent certification for first phase

The first phase of Good Point V, a state-of-the-art warehouse and production complex developed by Real Management S.A., has been awarded a BREEAM International New Construction V6 certificate at the Excellent level. Two recently completed buildings (Halls 1 and 4) have secured this prestigious environmental rating, reflecting the project’s strong commitment to ESG principles and sustainable construction practices.

Designed in accordance with top-quality and safety standards, Good Point V incorporates innovative solutions that lower utility costs, reduce environmental impact, and foster a comfortable, healthy working environment. The complex achieved a score of 75.3% in the Post Construction Assessment stage. Its success in categories related to project and construction management, energy efficiency, water and sewage management, waste management, and emission reduction was particularly noteworthy.

The general contractor for the project was Bremer, while JWA provided advisory services during the certification process.

“The BREEAM Excellent certification for the first phase of Good Point V confirms our dedication to sustainable construction,” said Eliza Wielgus, Asset Manager at Real Management S.A. “We are proud to create facilities that not only serve the needs of rapidly growing businesses but also protect the environment and prioritize user well-being. This project follows our Green Standard for Warehouse Buildings, and we will continue to apply this approach in our future developments.”

Upon completion, Good Point V will span 30,000 sqm, comprising multiple buildings. Two halls have been completed as part of the first phase and have already been put into use. In July 2024, Dr Irena Eris S.A., a prominent Polish cosmetics manufacturer, moved into Hall 1. In early August 2024, Hall 4 was handed over to Sales Service Sp. z o.o.

The entire complex is slated for completion in Q1 2025, at which time OEX Fulfilio Sp. z o.o., a specialist in logistics services for the e-commerce sector, loyalty programs, and POS materials, will take occupancy.

Located in Łubna, Good Point V benefits from excellent transport connections to Warsaw via Puławska street, state road no. 79, and a nearby interchange in Góra Kalwaria. This strategic positioning facilitates efficient logistics operations and convenient access for both employees and suppliers.

The BREEAM Excellent certification highlights Good Point V’s role as a model of sustainable, user-centric, and future-oriented industrial development in Poland’s growing warehouse and production market.

Garbe Industrial Real Estate launches sustainable logistics project in Dissen

Garbe Industrial Real Estate GmbH is set to break ground on a new 19,500-square-metre logistics facility in Dissen am Teutoburger Wald (Osnabrück district, Lower Saxony). With planning permission now secured, construction is due to begin shortly, and completion is slated for the third quarter of 2025.

The new development will cater to multiple tenants, ensuring flexibility and efficient use of space. It will feature approximately 17,200 square metres of hall area, 1,700 square metres of warehouse space, and 600 square metres dedicated to social areas and a New Work-style office concept. This design approach aims to provide employees with a comfortable, forward-thinking workplace environment.

“By designing the new building as a multi-user facility, we can offer segmented leasing options that accommodate various companies under one roof,” said Maik Zeranski, Member of the Executive Board of Garbe Industrial Real Estate.

The project site, spanning 32,000 square metres, formerly housed an outdated refrigerated logistics center. Garbe Industrial Real Estate has overseen its careful dismantling, ensuring materials are recycled and repurposed for the new structure. The upcoming facility will meet GEG-40 building standards, significantly improving energy efficiency and upgrading the location’s overall sustainability profile.

Environmental stewardship is integral to the development. Plans include a resource-saving construction process that minimizes carbon emissions, use of an air-source heat pump system to avoid fossil fuels, and the integration of a photovoltaic installation to generate renewable energy on-site. Pre-installed infrastructure will support electric vehicle charging, and a tailored greening concept—including a wooden façade and a discreet green strip—will enhance local biodiversity. Garbe aims to achieve DGNB Gold Standard certification, underscoring the project’s commitment to ESG principles.

Equipped with 17 dock levellers and two ground-level sectional doors, the new facility will efficiently handle a wide range of goods. Parking areas will accommodate five trucks and 49 cars, ensuring smooth logistics operations.

Garbe Industrial Real Estate is targeting tenants from the consumer goods sector, among others, and has begun preliminary discussions with regional companies.
“Our emphasis on working with local businesses underscores our commitment to supporting the regional economy,” added Zeranski.

Located along the A33 motorway between Osnabrück-Süd and Bielefeld, the property offers excellent transport links. The Dissen/Bad Rothenfelde and Dissen-Süd slip roads—both approximately two kilometers away—provide quick access to main arterial routes, making the site an attractive hub for distribution and commerce.

By integrating sustainability, flexible design, and regional partnerships, Garbe Industrial Real Estate’s new logistics center in Dissen am Teutoburger Wald represents a forward-looking model for the industry. With construction set to begin soon, the project is poised to reshape the regional logistics landscape and set a benchmark for environmentally conscious development.

Develia strengthens Board with new appointment for 2025 term

Develia’s supervisory board has appointed its management team for a new term beginning 1 January 2025. The board will retain its current leadership, including President Andrzej Oślizło and Vice Presidents Paweł Ruszczak and Mariusz Poławski, while welcoming Karol Dzięcioł, formerly the company’s business development advisor, as a new board member.

Under Oślizło’s leadership since December 2020, Develia has implemented a successful business strategy, focusing on divesting its commercial portfolio and reinvesting in the residential sector. The company achieved most of its 2021-2025 objectives a year ahead of schedule, doubling its annual flat sales from approximately 1,400 in 2020 to nearly 2,700 in 2023.

The appointment of Karol Dzięcioł to the board reflects Develia’s ambitions to sustain its momentum. Dzięcioł played a key role in acquiring and integrating Nexity’s Polish operations in 2023, a milestone transaction that expanded Develia’s footprint in the residential sector. As a board member, he will oversee land acquisition, partnerships, M&A transactions, and the development of new segments, including PRS (Private Rented Sector) and dormitories.

“The strengthened board is well-equipped to achieve our strategic goals for 2025-2028, including increasing sales to 4,500 units per year and building a land bank of 16,000 units by 2028,” said Jacek Osowski, Chairman of Develia’s Supervisory Board.

Despite external challenges such as the pandemic and geopolitical tensions, Develia has demonstrated resilience, leveraging its strong financial position to capitalize on market opportunities. The company’s rapid growth in the residential sector, supported by strategic M&A activities like the Nexity acquisition, underscores its adaptability and vision.

“We’ve achieved significant results over the past four years, even amid volatile market conditions. I am grateful for the trust of the Supervisory Board and look forward to further strengthening Develia’s position in the Polish market with our dedicated team,” said Andrzej Oślizło, President of Develia.

With nearly two decades of experience in real estate across Central and Eastern Europe, Karol Dzięcioł brings expertise in residential, PRS, and mixed-use projects. His career includes senior roles at REAS (now JLL Living), HB Reavis, Echo Investment, and Frontier Estates Poland. As a member of Develia’s board, he aims to support the company’s dynamic growth trajectory.

“I’m excited to contribute to Develia’s development at the board level, focusing on expanding our land bank and strengthening our market position. Over the past two years, we’ve successfully completed key projects that have boosted the company’s potential, and I look forward to continuing that success,” said Dzięcioł.

Develia’s newly outlined strategy aims to enhance shareholder value while driving dynamic growth. Key objectives include increasing annual unit sales to 4,500 and ensuring robust land acquisition to support future projects. With a proven team and clear goals, the company is well-positioned to remain a leading developer in Poland.

North Gate on Bonifraterska Street in Warsaw office building secures new leases

The North Gate office building on Bonifraterska Street in Warsaw has welcomed two new tenants and seen an existing tenant expand its space. The 87-meter Class A office property, owned by Deka Immobilien Fund and represented by Savills, continues to attract interest with its prime location and modern facilities.

New Tenants Join North Gate:
• Company Development Fund S.A. (FRS): The state-owned company managing assets in the shipbuilding sector has returned to North Gate, leasing 466 sqm. FRS’s decision to return highlights the building’s high standards and appeal to long-term tenants.
• RLG Systems Polska: Part of the RLG Group specializing in environmental consulting, the company has leased 300 sqm. North Gate’s BREEAM In-Use Excellent certification and eco-friendly features were key factors in RLG’s decision. Brookfield Partners agency, represented by Adriana Binkiewicz, facilitated the lease.

An existing tenant also expanded its occupancy by an additional 1,800 sqm, reinforcing North Gate’s reputation for meeting the needs of diverse businesses.

North Gate, located at 17 Bonifraterska Street, offers 29,000 sqm of office space and features a five-level car park with 310 spaces, along with cycling facilities. The building’s proximity to public transport—including tram and bus stops and the nearby Dworzec Gdański metro station—ensures easy access. Employees benefit from nearby green spaces like Romuald Traugutt Park and access to retail and services at Westfield Arkadia Shopping Centre.

“The return of FRS to North Gate is a testament to the building’s enduring quality. With its excellent location, modern amenities, and sustainable design, North Gate continues to attract businesses that value comfort and growth opportunities,” said Monika Wakulska, Associate Director at Savills Poland.

North Gate’s BREEAM In-Use Excellent certification underscores its dedication to sustainability and high environmental standards, making it an attractive choice for companies prioritizing ecological responsibility. Its location, amenities, and modern standards ensure it remains a top choice in Warsaw’s office market.

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