BLIK Romania receives authorization from National Bank to begin operations

BLIK Romania has been officially authorized by the National Bank of Romania (BNR) to commence operations, according to the Polish Payment Standard. This approval marks a significant step in expanding BLIK’s mobile payment system into the Romanian market.

The authorization will allow BLIK to develop its payment system in Romanian leu (RON) and partner with local payment service providers. Initially, the company plans to focus on e-commerce payments, capitalizing on Romania’s rapidly growing online shopping sector.

“The BNR authorization is crucial for BLIK’s expansion in Romania, a key market in Central and Eastern Europe. The surge in digital growth and the increasing adoption of cashless payments create the ideal conditions for introducing BLIK’s modern payment solutions,” said Ryszard Drużyński, President of BLIK Romania.

BLIK Romania, registered in December 2022, officially announced its activity in March 2023. Since then, it has worked on aligning with local regulations and developing a market-specific strategy. With the BNR’s approval granted on October 1, 2024, BLIK Romania is set to roll out its services to all authorized payment providers in the country.

The company’s strategy involves gradually introducing BLIK payments across all channels, with an initial emphasis on e-commerce.

“BLIK’s success in fast, secure online payments across Poland and Central and Eastern Europe positions us well to thrive in Romania’s evolving digital landscape. As Romania’s e-commerce sector continues to grow, we are confident in BLIK’s ability to lead in this space,” added Dariusz Mazurkiewicz, Chairman of BLIK Romania’s Supervisory Board.

BLIK is a mobile payment standard operated by Polish Standard Payments (PSP), with shareholders including major Polish banks and Mastercard.

MDC2 and Generali RE lease 11,000 sqm custom facility to InPost at Park Kraków South

MDC2 and its partner, Generali Real Estate, have finalized a lease agreement with InPost for a 11,000 m² custom-built facility at MDC2 Park Kraków South. The build-to-suit (BTS) facility will be tailored exclusively to InPost’s needs, furthering the company’s growth in the Kraków region.

The development, owned by Generali Real Estate as part of its European logistics investment portfolio, is being handled by MDC2. The project reflects both companies’ commitment to sustainability, with the facility designed in line with environmental best practices and set to achieve a BREEAM New Construction certification of at least ‘Excellent.’

InPost, a leader in e-commerce delivery across Europe, is well known in Poland for its Paczkomat® machines, which form the backbone of its automated parcel system. Research shows that 94% of Polish consumers prefer using Paczkomat® for parcel collection, and 85% use it for shipping. With its success in Poland, InPost has expanded to nine European countries, operating over 73,000 out-of-home points, including more than 40,000 Paczkomat® devices.

The new 11,000 m² facility at MDC2 Park Kraków South will serve as a bespoke transshipment terminal, designed to enhance logistics operations and expedite parcel delivery in the Kraków region. Located in Skawina, south of Kraków, the site offers strategic access to key transport routes, including national road 44 and the A4 motorway.

“InPost handles around one million shipments annually in Poland, and a reliable logistics infrastructure is crucial to our success,” said Rafał Brzoska, CEO of InPost. “This new facility will support our commitment to operational efficiency and environmentally friendly practices.”

Generali Real Estate’s Asset Manager for CEE & Nordics, Miroslav Nutil, expressed excitement about the partnership, noting the continued collaboration with InPost that began in Gdańsk and now extends to Kraków.

Katarzyna Dudzik, Development Director at MDC2, emphasized that the agreement highlights InPost’s trust in their innovative solutions, reinforcing MDC2’s position in the rapidly growing e-commerce market in Poland.

The facility at MDC2 Park Kraków South is designed to minimize carbon footprint and maximize energy efficiency, aligning with the shared values of sustainability between InPost, MDC2, and Generali Real Estate.

AFI Europe Launches New Coworking Center in Vysočany

AFI Europe has officially opened a new coworking center, AFI HOME WORK, located on the ground floor of its AFI Home Kolbenova 1 residential development in the rapidly evolving AFI City district of Vysočany. Covering 250 square meters, this modern workspace is designed to serve local residents and professionals from the wider Prague 9 area, aiming to foster a vibrant business community.

“Our goal is to provide an inspiring environment where people can work, network, and share ideas. In addition to traditional workspaces, we’ve created informal zones that encourage collaboration over a cup of coffee,” said Kateřina Holická, AFI Europe’s asset manager. She noted that integrating coworking spaces within a residential project is a new concept in the Czech market, highlighting AFI Europe’s forward-thinking approach.

Designed by the renowned CCA Architects studio, the interior blends minimalism with industrial elements. The space features exposed ceilings, raw concrete walls, and modern furnishings, combining wood and metal for a sleek, stylish atmosphere. AFI HOME WORK offers 25 flexible workstations, a large meeting room, a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area, and a chill-out zone. The center also provides high-speed Wi-Fi, a multifunctional printer, and video conferencing capabilities.

Located near the Kolbenova metro station, AFI HOME WORK benefits from the district’s growing amenities, including restaurants, a laundromat, and a soon-to-open supermarket, fitness center, and bistro.

AFI City, the broader development project, includes the AFI City 1 office building, rental housing with 640 apartments, and 470 sold apartments for private ownership. The area also boasts a 7,500 square meter park, offering green space for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Czechs lower housing expectations amid economic challenges

More than a quarter of Czechs have reduced their housing demands due to rising energy prices, inflation, and interest rates, according to a recent survey by Generali Investments. The study, conducted in September, highlights how economic pressures have shifted housing priorities for many people, though the number of those making such concessions has decreased compared to last year.

According to Generali Investments, the rental housing market has changed significantly since 2019. Five years ago, tenants in Prague could rent a 65-square-meter apartment for the same price they would now pay for a 49-square-meter unit. The data, based on information from the Czech Statistical Office and Deloitte, show the long-term impact of economic instability.

Marek Bečička, Director of Real Assets at Generali Investments, noted that while the economic situation has slightly improved, conditions remain tough. “Energy prices, inflation, and interest rates are still not at pre-pandemic levels, but we’re seeing a positive trend. In 2023, a third of the population reduced their housing demands, but this year only a quarter did so,” Bečička said.

Energy costs remain a primary concern for nearly a third of respondents, though fewer people feel this pressure compared to last year. A tenth of Czechs are now considering downsizing to smaller homes due to energy costs. Inflation affects one-fifth of the population, and high interest rates are increasingly problematic, with more than 9% of respondents citing them as a major issue, up from 2023.

The survey also revealed rising housing costs. Nearly a third of respondents reported paying up to 10% more for housing than last year, with over 30% paying 10% to 25% more, and a tenth of Czechs seeing increases of up to 50%.

Rental prices in the Czech Republic increased by 3.4% in the second quarter of this year, with Prague seeing a 2.3% rise, bringing the average rent to CZK 408 per square meter per month. Meanwhile, mortgage rates fell slightly in early September, with the average rate dropping to 5.38%, according to Swiss Life Hypoindex.

The Generali Investments survey was conducted through Ipsos’s Instant Research application and included 1,050 respondents aged 18 to 65 from across the Czech Republic.

Source: Generali Investments

Mayors set to nominate new minister for regional development today

The leadership of the Mayors and Independents (STAN) will decide this afternoon on their nomination for the new Minister for Regional Development. The position became vacant following the dismissal of Ivan Bartoš (Pirates) on September 30, at the request of Prime Minister Petr Fiala (ODS). Bartoš was removed due to issues related to the digitization of the construction process.

Last week, the STAN leadership held a similar meeting to nominate their first vice-president, Lukáš Vlček, for the role of Minister of Industry and Trade. Vlček’s nomination comes as Jozef Síkel is expected to step down and assume the role of European Commissioner.

The Pirates criticized Bartoš’s dismissal, accusing Fiala of violating the coalition agreement, which led to the party’s vote to exit the government. The coordination of the digitization process has since been transferred to Minister of Transport Martin Kupka (ODS), while the Ministry of Regional Development is temporarily under the leadership of Labour Minister Marian Jurečka (KDU-ČSL).

Potential candidates for the role include current deputy Radim Sršeň, Karlovy Vary Governor Petr Kulhánek, Olomouc Governor Josef Suchánek, and MP Eliška Olšáková, who also chairs the Association of Local Authorities. The final nomination will be discussed by the STAN Bureau and the national committee in the Chamber of Deputies later today.

GN Poland leases over 2,000 sqm in Warsaw’s Saski Crescent

GN Poland, part of the global GN Group, has signed a lease for more than 2,000 sqm of office space in the recently refurbished Saski Crescent building in central Warsaw. The company’s new headquarters will span the entire third floor of the boutique office building, located at the intersection of Marszałkowska and Królewska streets. The move is scheduled for the end of this year, with Colliers advising GN Poland on the search, and CA Immo, the landlord, assisted by CBRE.

Saski Crescent, known for its energy efficiency and prime location, has undergone extensive renovations, adding new amenities like a gym and cyclist facilities while incorporating sustainable building management systems. The building uses recycled materials for 50% of its renovations and has received WELL pre-certification, confirming its commitment to occupant well-being and environmental impact. It also holds WiredScore Platinum certification and is seeking BREEAM certification.

Joanna Wiechowicz, Head of Service Delivery Centre at GN Poland, emphasized the importance of employee well-being and environmental responsibility in choosing the new location, noting that Saski Crescent met all of GN’s expectations. Dawid Wątorski, Senior Leasing Manager at CA Immo, highlighted the building’s appeal as one of Warsaw’s most prestigious office spaces, attracting tenants with its sustainability features.

Saski Crescent, offering 16,000 sqm of modern office space, continues to attract high-profile tenants. Recent deals include a global IT company leasing 6,000 sqm and DORACO occupying 1,000 sqm. Expansion of food and beverage options is also in the pipeline, following the opening of an Aroma bakery in the lobby.

Walter Herz Report: Trends transforming the office market in Poland

Global economic transformations are impacting how companies operate and how workplaces are designed. The report titled “25 Trends That Will Transform Your Office by 2025,” developed by Walter Herz in collaboration with experts from Workplace, ISS Polska, DECISIVE Szmigiel, Papros, Gregorczyk, and Brill AV Media, outlines the leading trends shaping the development of the office market in Poland.

-The analysis highlights the main factors driving change in the office sector. The information in the report may serve as inspiration for creating efficient and cost-effective office spaces that address the new work system. It also includes information on innovations in space design and management, as well as technological solutions entering offices, and new provisions being introduced into lease agreements – says Mateusz Strzelecki, Partner/Head of Tenant Representation at Walter Herz.

The Office Market

Jarosław Zdzitowiecki, head of Walter Herz’s Tri-City branch, describes the main trends shaping today’s office market. – The widespread adoption of hybrid work is driving the trend of tenants choosing smaller spaces and companies focusing on buildings that offer high quality, located in attractive surroundings in city centers. Comfortable offices equipped with modern technical solutions and offering a friendly environment are gaining in importance – admits Jarosław Zdzitowiecki.

Offices are becoming spaces for meetings, building relationships, team spirit, and company culture, designed to promote team integration.

A characteristic feature of the office market is the low supply of new space. It’s increasingly difficult to find a good address that attracts employees, and the number of new developments is limited. Demand for prime space in city centers exceeds supply.

One challenge for market participants is the rising cost of fit-outs and service charges. There’s a growing trend to reduce costs associated with the finishing and fit-out of new offices. Moreover, renegotiations are playing an increasing role in the leasing structure.

Tenants are also looking for ways to control operating costs, while space optimization is leading to a rise in sublease offerings.

Design

Office design and the functional profile of workplaces are also changing significantly. Bogusz Parzyszek, CEO and founder of Workplace, defines the main trends in this area. – The leading trend in office design is related to the need to build company culture and consciously shape the social and organizational aspects of the work environment. The designed space should effectively foster community, integration, and collaboration – says Bogusz Parzyszek.

Experimentation is becoming the foundation of design processes. One direction involves implementing neuroscience guidelines to support mental and physical regeneration through design and amenities.

A change in narrative is guiding designers. Workspaces are being tailored to the needs of people who regularly use the office, moving away from attempts to attract all employees back.

– Technologies based on data analytics and computational models are being used to optimize office spaces and improve their operational efficiency. Smart workplace management, such as using reservation systems to monitor real usage, reduces resource waste – says Bogusz Parzyszek.

Productive innovation is a trend based on the belief that the designed space should help achieve a state of mind referred to as productively-innovative.

Fit-out and build

Alicja Muszalska, an architect in the Capital Projects team at ISS, outlines the hallmarks of modern fit-outs in the report. #Durabilityinvolves designing spaces using high-quality, durable materials and recycled elements.

#Moderation refers to creating spaces that are cost-efficient and environmentally friendly, which includes material recycling, reducing utility consumption, and implementing BMS and IOT systems. This also aligns with designing mixed-use, boutique offices equipped with top AV equipment.

#Utility governs issues such as diversity and inclusivity, designing spaces that foster social bonds across diverse groups and entire teams.

#Paradox management seeks a balance between social and environmental aspects, minimizing conflicts of interest.

Technology

Technology is crucial in office planning. Cezary Gromko, AV Integrations Account Manager at Brill AV Media, describes the latest solutions being implemented in offices. In his view, one of the fastest-growing trends in office space design is the integration of podcast studios. – Companies are recognizing the enormous benefits of incorporating solutions beyond traditional AV technology. Podcast studios significantly enhance internal communication within organizations while also serving as an attractive employee benefit. Externally streamed podcasts can also be part of a company’s content marketing strategy. – says Cezary Gromko.

Another solution being introduced into offices is interactive monitors, which allow teams to visualize ideas and boost creativity in project work. USB-C technology enables the connection of office laptops, monitors, power, and peripheral accessories through a single cable, creating a “clean desk” environment.

The development of LED technology and device miniaturization has made modern AV solutions more discreet and aesthetically pleasing. Innovative workplaces are also utilizing interactive spaces in leisure zones, where employees can engage in various creative forms of entertainment and education.

Legal Provisions in Lease Agreements

Andrzej Szmigiel, Partner at DECISIVE Szmigiel, Papros, Gregorczyk, discusses new provisions in lease agreements. – A new addition to lease agreements are clauses concerning Service Level Agreements, which ensure the quality of services provided by landlords. Lease agreements are increasingly including clauses that require landlords to hold appropriate certifications for buildings, implement energy-efficient solutions, and use green energy. – says Andrzej Szmigiel.

More and more tenants are seeking to introduce clauses allowing them to negotiate individual energy supply contracts and ensure technical capabilities for energy independence. There is also growing attention to precisely defining and accounting for force majeure issues. New contract provisions also address sanctions imposed by the U.S. and the European Union in response to actions by authoritarian regimes, affecting certain entities.

Author: Walter Herz
Photo(s): Walter Herz

Newport Logistics Fund launches third pan-European logistics fund, Targeting €300 Million

Newport Logistics Fund has announced the launch of its third pan-European logistics fund, aiming to raise €300 million to develop 10-12 modern logistics facilities across Europe. This follows the successful fundraising and investments of its first two funds, which collectively secured projects valued at €300 million in gross asset value (GAV).

Newport Logistics Fund I S.C.A. SICAV-RAIF, launched in 2022, raised funds within 10 months, enabling investments in state-of-the-art logistics facilities in London, Amsterdam, and Lodz, valued at €100 million GAV. Building on that success, Newport Logistics Fund II S.C.A. SICAV-RAIF was introduced in March 2023 and has since raised €200 million, which has been allocated to projects in Austria, the Netherlands, France, Poland, and Germany.

Newport Logistics Fund, established in 2022 and part of the Panattoni Group, focuses on financing the full investment cycle for logistics warehouses in key European locations. The fund’s success is attributed to its strategy of geographic diversification and collaboration with Panattoni, a leading warehouse developer, providing investors with access to logistics projects across Europe. The funds have attracted a wide range of investors, including high-net-worth individuals and family businesses from the EU, Switzerland, the UK, the US, and the Middle East.

Szymon Ostrowski, Managing Director of the fund, noted, “Investors have appreciated the strategic diversification of assets in key logistics locations and the ability to deliver above-average returns, even in challenging economic conditions.”

Following the positive reception of Funds I and II, Newport Logistics Fund III S.C.A SICAV-RAIF aims to expand the fund’s portfolio further, with secured projects already underway north of London in the UK and a build-to-suit (BTS) facility in Malaga, Spain. Additional investments across the European Union are currently being evaluated.

All Newport Logistics Fund projects adhere to strict sustainability standards and are BREEAM certified, aligning with ESG objectives under Article 8 of the EU SFDR. “We aim to achieve a 15% annual return for our investors while also delivering environmentally responsible projects that meet the needs of both tenants and warehouse owners,” said Ostrowski.

With the launch of Fund III, Newport Logistics Fund continues to strengthen its position as a key player in Europe’s rapidly growing logistics sector, developing sustainable and high-quality facilities in strategic locations across the continent.

JTRE lays cornerstone for Nordhafen Living & Office in Berlin’s Europacity

In a symbolic ceremony, JTRE and JTRE Germany marked a major milestone in the construction of their first German project, Nordhafen Living & Office, with the laying of a ceremonial cornerstone and time capsule. The event, attended by architects, contractors, and the media, celebrates the start of a 33,000 sqm multifunctional development in the heart of Berlin’s Europacity district.

The project, scheduled for completion in 2027, will feature 150 long-term rental residences, alongside office spaces, retail outlets, dining establishments, and additional services. Nordhafen Living & Office embodies the 15-minute city concept, designed by internationally acclaimed gmp studio Architekten, aiming to deliver a vibrant mixed-use environment in one of Berlin’s emerging neighborhoods.

The ceremony saw JTRE’s leadership in attendance, including Peter Píš (Commercial Director), Lukáš Sásik (Director of International Projects and Managing Director of JTRE Germany), and the project’s managers, Sebastian Mirrek and Jesper van der Heiden. Chief architect Hans Joachim Paap of gmp studio was also present. A time capsule filled with contemporary newspapers, project documents, and well wishes was buried, symbolizing the project’s significance.

“This project aligns perfectly with JTRE’s strategy to develop integrated urban districts in desirable waterfront locations,” said Pavel Pelikán, a key representative of JTRE. “We’re confident that Nordhafen Living & Office will be as successful and impactful as our award-winning developments in London, Triptych Bankside and Appleby Blue. This project will leave a lasting impression in Berlin’s Europacity.”

Lukáš Sásik expressed excitement about bringing this project to one of Berlin’s newest districts, noting the increase in the number of rental apartments and the rebranding as Nordhafen Living & Office. “We strive to create projects that combine outstanding architecture with benefits for residents and tenants alike,” he said.

Construction progress has accelerated since February 2024, following a pause since 2022. Rough construction began in September, and the reinforced concrete frame is expected to be completed by 2026, with full project completion slated for March 2027.

Nordhafen Living & Office is designed to provide an ideal space for living and working in the dynamic Europacity. The project will include a green courtyard with a rest area and playground, more than 300 bicycle parking spaces, underground parking with e-charging stations, and a roof terrace for office tenants. The building will also feature solar panels and has already received LEED Platinum pre-certification. The developers are aiming for additional certifications, including WELL, WiredScore, and SmartScore.

Located in the rapidly developing Europacity district, the project will integrate a mix of residential, office, retail, and dining options, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere typical of Berlin’s Kiez neighborhoods. Its proximity to iconic landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate, Tiergarten park, and Museum Island further enhances its appeal.

Nordhafen Living & Office represents JTRE’s commitment to creating forward-thinking urban developments, blending innovation with Berlin’s historic charm.

DEJONG selects CTPark Prešov North for new 33,000 sqm facility in Slovakia

DEJONG, a manufacturer of stainless-steel hot water tanks, has signed a long-term lease for 33,000 sqm of warehouse and office space at CTPark Prešov North in Slovakia. This marks the first tenant for the park, which spans 43.5 hectares and offers a gross lettable area (GLA) of 200,000 sqm. DEJONG, a subsidiary of Rheem Global Water, will utilize the facility as a strategic base to meet growing European demand.

The new facility, consisting of 29,800 sqm of warehouse space and 3,200 sqm of office space, is expected to be completed by early 2026. The development is projected to create hundreds of jobs and strengthen the local supply chain. DEJONG’s decision to invest in Eastern Slovakia was driven by the region’s skilled workforce, developed infrastructure, and governmental support.

Lee Fletcher, DEJONG Slovakia’s Plant Manager, highlighted the region’s advantages, stating, “Eastern Slovakia offers a skilled, multilingual workforce and well-developed transport infrastructure, making it an ideal location for our expansion.” Rheem Europe’s Managing Director, Arno La Haye, added, “This investment is crucial to our growth in Europe, allowing us to deliver sustainable heating solutions.”

Peter Ceresnik, COO of CTP Group, welcomed DEJONG, noting the company’s alignment with CTP’s long-term vision for sustainable growth in Central Eastern Europe (CEE). The strategic location of CTPark Prešov North positions it well for cross-border trade with Poland, just 70 km away, and adds to CTP’s extensive portfolio in Slovakia and the broader CEE region.

DEJONG’s new facility adds to the region’s industrial expansion, following major investments like Volvo Cars’ €1.2 billion plant in Košice and BMW Group’s solar plant in Hungary. CTP, Slovakia’s leading industrial property developer, continues to attract foreign investment to its parks, further boosting the region’s rapid economic growth.

« Previous 1 … 365 366 367 368 369 … 372 Next »

Latest news

All posts by fletcher@cijeurope.com.