EDF Invest and Generali Real Estate announce major co-investment in French logistics sector

EDF Invest, the investment arm of the EDF Group, and Generali Real Estate have unveiled a new co-investment program in the French logistics sector. As part of the agreement, EDF Invest has acquired a 50% stake in the investment vehicle OPPCI Parcolog Invest from Generali France, with the remaining 50% held by the Generali Group through its pan-European logistics strategy, the Generali Real Estate Logistic Fund (GRELF).

OPPCI Parcolog Invest currently owns a portfolio of nine high-quality logistics assets in France valued at approximately €400 million. These assets include strategic locations such as Moussy le Neuf near Roissy, XXL platforms in Hénin Beaumont (Lille) and Plaine de l’Ain (Lyon), and other properties in Marseille Clésud, Avignon, Bourg en Bresse, Le Mans, and the Lille region. The co-investors aim to further expand the portfolio with new acquisitions and logistics developments over the coming years.

Generali Real Estate views OPPCI Parcolog Invest as its key vehicle for logistics investments in France, while continuing its broader expansion across continental Europe through the GRELF fund. This collaboration with EDF Invest is expected to enhance the growth of Generali’s logistics portfolio by leveraging third-party capital.

“This partnership with EDF Invest, which began two years ago in the office sector, now extends to logistics, a critical asset class for Generali Real Estate. We are honored by the trust of our partners and are committed to delivering investment solutions that align with their objectives,” said Sébastien Pezet, Head of Western Europe at Generali Real Estate.

Pierre-David Baylac, Head of Logistics at Generali Real Estate, expressed optimism about the partnership’s potential. “This co-investment with EDF Invest allows us to strengthen our position in France at a pivotal moment for the logistics market. We are excited about the future growth opportunities through OPPCI Parcolog Invest and the GRELF fund.”

Clémence Caniaux, Head of Real Estate at EDF Invest, highlighted the strategic alignment of the acquisition. “This investment enhances our portfolio’s exposure to the logistics sector and reflects our long-term strategy. We look forward to deepening our partnership with Generali through this high-quality portfolio.”

The transaction has been financed by a consortium of leading banks, including CACIB, BNPP, and Société Générale. Generali Real Estate will oversee asset management, while property management will be handled by Parcolog Gestion/Primelog.

Savills Poland appoints Paulina Stach as Director of Retail Property & Asset Management

Savills, a global real estate advisory firm, has announced the appointment of Paulina Stach as Director of Retail Property and Asset Management. Stach brings 15 years of operational expertise in property management, particularly in creating development strategies for shopping centers.

Before joining Savills, Stach held senior management roles in both the transport and real estate sectors, overseeing prominent projects in Poland and internationally. Her portfolio includes managing well-known shopping centers such as Westfield Arkadia, Galeria Krakowska, Galeria Łódzka, Limbecker Platz Essen, Schloss Höfe Oldenburg, and Thier-Galerie Dortmund. She also led the management of Pasaż Grunwaldzki in Wrocław for five years and served as Consulting Director at Comarch and Director of the Retail Department at G City Europe.

“Paulina has an impressive track record in managing high-profile retail properties. Her experience and skillset will undoubtedly elevate the quality of our Property and Asset Management department, helping us achieve our strategic objectives and enhance team collaboration,” said Michał Bryszewski, Head of Property & Asset Management at Savills.

Stach holds a degree in Economics and International Relations from the Cracow University of Economics, and she completed a Double Degree Programme at Kiel University of Applied Sciences in Germany, along with a scholarship at the University of Victoria in Canada. She also pursued postgraduate studies in Financial Management at Poznań University of Economics.

Outside of her professional achievements, Stach is passionate about travel. In 2017, she solo-traveled across eight South American countries, and in 2023, she embarked on a journey through Oceania, visiting countries from Australia to New Zealand and the Kingdom of Tonga.

Poland: Survey reveals prices and availability of studio flats in new housing developments

A survey offering detailed insights into the pricing of the smallest flats from developers, including studio apartments in new housing developments and the specific projects where they are currently available.

Tomasz Kaleta, managing director of sales and marketing at Develia:
The prices of studios in our offer depend, among other things, on the location of the development. They start at PLN 340,000 for units of around 26 sq.m. in the Unii Lubelskiej Vita investment in Poznań.

In Warsaw and Krakow, on the other hand, the cost of purchasing this type of apartment is an expense of nearly PLN 500 thousand. This is due to the fact that we have abandoned the design of small flats, the area of which, according to the regulations in force, can be from 25 sq m, in favour of slightly larger, compact units of about 32 sq m with the possibility of separating a bedroom. This allows our customers to choose a spacious studio or compact duplex, which is cheaper than a standard two-room flat.

Agnieszka Majkusiak, sales director at Atal:
In the Ogrody Andersa project in Gliwice, we have one-room flats with an area of 26 sqm on sale at a price of over PLN 284,000. In the Łódź project Atal Aura, a 26-square-metre flat can be bought for over PLN 300 thousand. In Wrocław, in the Atal Starachowicka estate, a flat of 25 sq.m. awaits buyers for around PLN 336 thousand.

The Przyjemne estate in Gdańsk offers 27 sq m studio flats for PLN 362 thousand. In the Atal Olimpijska investment in Katowice, a flat of approximately 26 sqm is on sale for PLN 382 thousand. In Kraków, in the Przewóz 42 project, you can buy a single 26 sq m for over PLN 452 thousand. In Atal’s Heyki City project in Szczecin, we have one-room flats of more than 28 sq m for PLN 454 thousand.

Małgorzata Ostrowska, Director of the Marketing and Sales Division at J.W. Construction:
In Osiedle Kościuszki in Chorzów, we offer a flat with an area of 27 sq m for PLN 354 thousand. In the Apartamenty na Wzgórzach project in Zawada near Myślenice, we have a studio of 25 sqm on sale for PLN 298 thousand. In the Nad Odrą project in Szczecin, a unit of 29 sq.m. can be purchased for over PLN 426 thousand. In the Horizon estate in Gdańsk, a one-room flat of 29 sq m is on offer for PLN 541 thousand.

Michał Witkowski, sales director at Lokum Deweloper:
One-room flats and small two-room flats are eagerly purchased by customers looking for a place to start. Due to the popularity of this type of space, their availability is steadily decreasing, but our Wrocław offer still includes compact units designed to make the most of every square metre.

At the Lokum Porto estate, located in Wrocław’s Old Town, in a location characterised by high investment potential, the smallest units of approximately 32 sq m are offered from PLN 554,000. Compact flats with an area of approximately 33 sqm, priced from PLN 499,000, are offered at the Lokum la Vida housing estate located in ul Herbsta in Wrocław, surrounded by extensive urban infrastructure and recreational areas.

Marek Starzyński, Sales Director, Okam Capital:
One-room flats are desired by young customers as well as individual investors buying premises for rent. In our current projects, among the cheaper one-room flats available, we have, for example, in Strefa Progress in Łódź, a flat of just over 34 sq m at a promotional price of PLN 11,374 per sq m. In the NOW project in Łódź, the price of a 33 sq m flat with a garden is PLN 10,868 per sq m with a discount.

In the Cityflow project in Warsaw, a 32-sq.m unit also with a garden can be purchased for PLN 21,650 per sq.m., and in the Inspire project in Katowice, a one-room flat with an area of 29 sq.m. is available at a price of PLN 14,400 per sq.m.

Agnieszka Gajdzik – Wilgos, Sales Manager, Ronson Development:
In Warsaw’s Ursus Centralny estate, prices of studio flats range between PLN 445,000 and PLN 563,000. These are flats with an area of 25-33 sqm.

On the other hand, in the City of My City development in Warsaw, a 25-square-metre flat can be bought for PLN 420,000. In Poznań, in the Grunwald Między Drzewami investment, the cheapest one-room flat costs PLN 350,000, plus one with its own garden. In Szczecin, prices of one-room flats start at 300,000 PLN.

Agata Zambrzycka, sales and marketing director at Aurec Home:
In 2023, two-room flats were the most popular, but now we are also seeing an increasing number of enquiries for the smallest size. The popularity of studios is due to their compact form. They are suitable for singles, students, couples and the elderly. In addition, they are still cheaper than larger flats. We offer studios in all our investments. Particularly worth mentioning is the newly developed investment Fabrica Ursus, which in a modern way refers to the industrial past of the former Ursus factories, where buyers can choose from flats with areas from 36 sqm.

The prices of studios vary and depend on a number of factors, such as the metric area and floor. We have a range of different budget options for potential owners. Thanks to our own sources of financing, we can offer purchasers selected units of a high standard at prices starting from 13,000 per sqm.

Damian Tomasik, CEO of Alter Investment:
From the position of a land developer, we notice the growing interest of developers in projects involving studio flats. The implementation of such projects often depends on the location of the property and planning requirements. A common example we encounter is the required large number of parking spaces, which forces the design of larger units, which certainly does not facilitate the optimisation of the flat structure. In well-located properties with access to public transport, residents of studio flats rarely use cars, while regulations require the provision of 1.2 or even 1.5 parking spaces per such flat. Customers buying studio flats are usually not interested in parking spaces and developers are forced to build them, which significantly increases the investment costs. It is therefore worth noting the need to adapt local development plans, which were often passed 15-20 years ago when other trends prevailed.

Source: dompress.pl
Photo: Wroclaw, Traugutta Vita, Develia

Deutsche Wohnen SE sells care portfolio for over €300 million

Deutsche Wohnen SE has finalized the sale of its Katharinenhof Group care portfolio, comprising 26 care properties, for a purchase price exceeding €300 million. The transaction was facilitated by Cushman & Wakefield, a global leader in property consultancy. The buyer is a fund managed by Civitas Investment Management (CIM), with TSC Real Estate advising Civitas on the acquisition.

The portfolio features over 3,000 beds across its care homes, which are primarily fully inpatient facilities with some assisted living units. This sale marks a significant move in the healthcare property market, reflecting growing investor interest in this asset class.

Cushman & Wakefield played a crucial role, acting as the commercial real estate advisor to Deutsche Wohnen SE. The firm also handled the technical due diligence required for the sale.

Commenting on the transaction, Jan-Bastian Knod, Head of Residential Investment Germany & Head of Healthcare Advisory at Cushman & Wakefield, stated, “The healthcare property asset class is returning to the spotlight for institutional investors. Following a period of high inflation, the operating results of care home operators have stabilized, making them more profitable. The long-term demand, stable market, and attractive returns are driving both national and international investors to explore opportunities in nursing, rehab, and medical care properties.”

Looking ahead, Cushman & Wakefield expects an increase in transaction volume within the healthcare real estate market throughout 2024, continuing the upward trend from 2023.

This sale highlights the sector’s strong potential as investors seek stable, long-term opportunities in a rapidly evolving property cycle.

Art-Invest Real Estate acquires four-property B&B hotel portfolio in Germany

Art-Invest Real Estate has announced the acquisition of a portfolio of four B&B hotels from Covivio, further strengthening its budget hotel fund. The newly acquired properties are located in key German cities: Berlin, Cologne-Frechen, Oberhausen, and Koblenz. Together, they offer a total of 400 rooms, all under long-term lease agreements.

Situated in highly accessible and visible micro-locations, these hotels benefit from strong demand across both business and leisure sectors.

Dr. Peter Ebertz, Managing Director of Art-Invest Real Estate, commented on the transaction: “This acquisition allows us to enhance our core budget hotel fund with four well-performing B&B hotels. Even amid the current market conditions, we continue to find attractive investment opportunities, which have contributed to the fund’s solid performance. With a narrowing gap between seller and buyer price expectations, we foresee an upswing in the hotel investment market.”

Art-Invest Real Estate received legal counsel from GSK Stockmann, while technical advice was provided by Reese Baumanagement, Witte Projektmanagement, and Albers-Parken Consulting. Commercial consulting was handled by Hotour Hotel Consulting, with JLL Hotels & Hospitality acting as the broker for the deal.

This acquisition reflects Art-Invest Real Estate’s strategic focus on expanding its presence in Germany’s budget hotel market, reinforcing its position as a key player in the sector.

HIH Invest launches institutional fund, acquires 14 properties in major investment move

HIH Invest Real Estate GmbH (“HIH Invest”) has announced the launch of a new institutional fund focused on residential real estate, securing a significant portfolio of 14 properties in collaboration with German housing giant, Vonovia. The fund’s total investment volume exceeds €630 million, encompassing nearly 1,600 high-end residential units and over 14,000 square meters of commercial space.

The fund is capitalized by a consortium of institutional investors, with HIH Invest holding a majority stake. Vonovia will manage the properties, while HIH Invest takes on the role of asset and fund manager.

The fund’s acquisitions include 14 newly built developments, 11 of which were sold by Vonovia, with the remaining three from Quarterback Immobilien AG. The properties cover a total lettable area of more than 127,000 square meters, of which 113,500 square meters are residential. The portfolio features a variety of housing options, including 1,592 apartments, student residences, and age-appropriate housing units. The developments are strategically located across key cities, including Berlin, Hamburg, Leipzig, Dresden, and Offenbach.

“These sites offer prime locations in well-established urban districts with strong public transport links, close to shopping centers, schools, and healthcare facilities. The buildings boast high-end finishes, including parquet flooring, underfloor heating, and large windows, and meet rigorous energy efficiency standards such as KfW 55, KfW 55 EE, and EnEV. Several properties are also targeting DGNB Gold certification for sustainability,” said Felix Meyen, Managing Director of HIH Invest.

The new fund allows HIH Invest to broaden its portfolio in a challenging market, with residential real estate emerging as a stable and growing asset class. “The German rental property market continues to offer resilient investment opportunities with strong cash flow potential,” noted Alexander Eggert, Managing Director of HIH Invest. “This fund strengthens our position in the market by delivering a product that aligns with current demand, particularly in the energy-efficient housing sector.”

The fund will also adhere to Article 8 of the EU Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation, ensuring compliance with stringent environmental standards. Vonovia will guarantee initial rental occupancy for both residential and commercial units.

Carsten Demmler, Managing Director at HIH Invest, highlighted the appeal for investors: “We are delighted to offer this excellent investment opportunity, with a strong risk-return profile, to our institutional investors. Our partnership with Vonovia, Germany’s largest housing company, further underscores the strength of this initiative and represents the first step in a larger collaboration.”

Legal and tax advice for the transaction was provided by Ashurst, while Drees & Sommer conducted technical and ESG audits. Commercial due diligence was managed by BNP Paribas Real Estate Consult.

This major acquisition is set to bolster HIH Invest’s position in the residential real estate market, offering a solid foundation for future growth amid rising demand for sustainable, energy-efficient living spaces.

Historic tenement ‘Barbary – HOME by Zeitgeist’ opens its doors in central Warsaw

In the heart of Warsaw, a historic gem is set to welcome new tenants. Zeitgeist Asset Management has announced the completion of the revitalisation of Barbary – HOME by Zeitgeist, located at 6/8 Św. Barbary Street. This building, which holds historical significance, now boasts 46 newly refurbished flats available for long-term rent.

The tenement offers residents a unique combination of modern living within a building that reflects the architectural heritage of Warsaw. Overlooking the green square of St. Barbara’s Church and a quiet, intimate patio, these flats have been carefully designed to balance history with contemporary comfort.

“We are thrilled to offer rental flats in such a unique location, one that blends historical value with proximity to the vibrant centre of the capital. It’s the ideal spot for those who value both style and character in their living space, while still enjoying the benefits of being in walking distance to Warsaw’s main attractions,” said Peter Noack, co-founder and CEO of Zeitgeist Asset Management.

The Barbary – HOME by Zeitgeist residence offers an unbeatable address. Situated near Nowogrodzka and Poznańska streets, it provides a quiet escape just 250 metres from iconic landmarks like the Palace of Culture and Science and the bustling Złote Tarasy shopping centre. The area is known for its charming cafes, restaurants, and green squares, while a vibrant social scene flourishes with nearby theatres, museums, and clubs.

Residents will also benefit from the proximity of major business centres and offices, making it easy to handle daily tasks and professional commitments in minutes. The well-connected location provides access to metro stations, buses, and trams just a short walk away, while Warsaw Chopin Airport is reachable within 30 minutes.

The revitalised building offers a selection of 46 units, including 24 studios, as well as two- and three-bedroom apartments ranging in size from 34 to 77 square metres. Each apartment is finished to a high standard, featuring fully equipped kitchens, modern bathrooms, built-in wardrobes, and high-quality appliances. Every flat also comes with a balcony offering views of the green surroundings of St. Barbara’s Church.

The building’s modernist architecture has been carefully preserved. Originally constructed in 1960, the townhouse was part of an extension of the Telephone and Telegraph building on Nowogrodzka Street. During the renovation, special care was taken to restore its façade, gate, and metalwork to their original charm, while the interiors now feature a blend of period elements with modern materials like concrete, steel, glass, and natural wood.

“I’m confident that the blend of this building’s unique characteristics and the cultural richness of the neighbourhood will make it one of the most attractive rental options in central Warsaw. We look forward to welcoming the first tenants very soon,” said Tomasz Dąbrowski, managing director of Zeitgeist Asset Management in Poland.

With its central location, Barbary – HOME by Zeitgeist is designed to appeal to a wide array of tenants, from young professionals seeking a vibrant urban lifestyle to families looking for proximity to green spaces, schools, and healthcare facilities.

Heli Europe leases 11,120 sqm for new European headquarters and R&D Center in Friedberg

Heli Europe, a subsidiary of China’s leading forklift manufacturer Heli China, has signed a long-term lease for 11,120 square meters of logistics space in Friedberg, Grüner Weg 14. The new site will serve as the company’s European headquarters and research and development (R&D) center. The leased space comprises 9,344 square meters of warehouse facilities and 1,776 square meters of office and social space. The property is owned by Gutperle & Tekath Real Estate GmbH, with the lease being arranged and negotiated by Colliers.

“We are thrilled to establish our new headquarters and R&D center in Friedberg. The strong support from local politicians and business associations has been invaluable. From here, we aim to advance our sustainable forklift innovations and enhance our presence across Europe,” said Jack Zhu, Sales Director of Heli Europe.

Vincent Tekath, a representative from Gutperle & Tekath Real Estate GmbH, commented on the swift process: “We are pleased with the successful completion of this lease agreement. The contract was finalized within just four weeks, and the extensive renovation works were completed in six weeks—a testament to the dedication and hard work of all involved. We look forward to a long-term partnership with Heli, an international player that brings significant value to the region.”

Yunus Erciyas, Head of Industrial & Logistics at Colliers in Frankfurt, highlighted the strategic importance of the location: “Advising Heli Europe in entering the German market has been a great success. The Rhine-Main region is ideal for their European expansion, with excellent access to key highways and close proximity to Frankfurt Airport, making it highly attractive to international companies.”

The official opening ceremony of the new headquarters was held on Friday, September 6, attended by 250-300 guests, including prominent figures from both industry and politics.

Heli Europe’s new base in Friedberg marks a significant step in the company’s strategy to expand its footprint in Europe, focusing on innovation and sustainability within the forklift and logistics industry.

Reify. unveils contemporary food hall ROOTS at ShoppingWelt dodenhof

Reify., the architecture and development division of Sonae Sierra, has unveiled ROOTS, a modern food hall designed to redefine dining experiences at the dodenhof Posthausen shopping centre. Spanning 1,400 square meters, the new gastronomic space features a diverse culinary offering and aims to establish itself as a vibrant community hub.

Situated within the shopping centre, ROOTS boasts seating for 360 guests indoors and includes a striking 40-meter-long winter garden complete with a wine bar. A dedicated event stage will host a variety of activities throughout the year, while an adjoining terrace provides an additional 90 outdoor seats. Six carefully selected tenants will offer a wide range of culinary delights, enhancing the gastronomic landscape of the area.

The transformation from the former food court to the innovative food hall began in 2023 and was completed in August 2024. The design preserves and integrates elements of the existing structure, reflecting a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and tradition.

“Food is more than a trend; it’s a megatrend,” stated Ricardo Rodrigues, Business Development Manager at Reify. “A contemporary food hall needs to be more than just a place to eat. Visitors seek attractive environments where they can work, relax, and socialize. We have integrated these elements into ROOTS, drawing on our extensive experience from numerous innovative food hall concepts worldwide.”

Ralph Dodenhof, managing partner of Dodenhof, emphasized the significance of the name ROOTS, which pays homage to the local heritage of Lower Saxony. He remarked, “ROOTS enhances the attractiveness of our centre and serves as a new crowd-puller. Our other tenants will benefit from this innovative concept as well, positioning us for a successful future.”

The design of ROOTS prioritizes visitor experience, featuring natural materials, elegant colors, and a thoughtful lighting scheme that stimulates the senses and fosters a welcoming ambiance. The layout includes designated pathways and distinct zones for dining, working, and leisure activities. Additionally, an event area has been incorporated to accommodate special occasions.

With its multifunctional approach, ROOTS is set to become a popular meeting place for a new generation of customers at the dodenhof ShoppingWelt in Posthausen, enhancing the overall appeal of the shopping experience.

Photo2: Ricardo Rodrigues, Business Development Executive, Reify.; Ralph Dodenhof, geschäftsführender Gesellschafter, Dodenhof and Christine Hager, Director Property Management von Sonae Sierra in Deutschland,

Metropolitan Warsaw attracts strong demand from leading companies

Metropolitan Warsaw continues to garner significant interest from prestigious Polish and international firms, with recent reports indicating the signing of new contracts and lease extensions for a total of 18,000 square meters within the building. Among the notable agreements are partnerships with renowned brands such as HP, LCP Properties, and Green Holding Group, along with commitments from a leading global consulting firm and a prominent player in the energy and chemical sector.

HP, a global technology leader, has chosen to extend its operations within Metropolitan Warsaw, opting for further expansion in the building. This decision reflects the company’s confidence in the property’s strategic location and facilities.

Looking ahead, LCP Properties, part of the British investment group M Core, plans to establish its headquarters in Metropolitan Warsaw. The firm has decided to double its leased space, showcasing its commitment to growth. LCP Group specializes in retail property development, focusing on the M Park brand for retail parks and Multipark for small business unit warehouses. The new office layout at Metropolitan Warsaw is tailored to meet the demands of LCP’s rapidly growing business and expanding workforce.

In addition to these significant tenants, a well-known global consulting firm has opted to extend its lease at Metropolitan Warsaw. Meanwhile, the Green Holding Group, a prominent Polish family-owned company recognized for its fresh vegetable production and refrigerated logistics operations, has also joined the roster of tenants. They have leased modern office space that offers impressive views of Piłsudski Square.

Additionally, a global leader in the energy and chemicals sector has established its new Warsaw headquarters in an office space distinguished by breathtaking views of the Saski Garden and the Grand Theatre.

Joanna Kowalska-Szymczak, founder and CEO of EBRU Capital, the asset manager for Metropolitan Warsaw, expressed her pride in the building’s appeal: “The trust shown by global leaders in their industries is the best confirmation of the quality of Metropolitan Warsaw. In today’s market, buildings with high ESG standards are essential, promoting well-being in both living and working environments while integrating seamlessly into the urban fabric. Metropolitan Warsaw embodies these qualities. As the asset manager, we are committed to creating a friendly, comfortable, and attractive work environment for all companies that have chosen to establish their headquarters in this iconic building.”

Metropolitan Warsaw is a first-class property featuring high-end office spaces alongside luxury retail and service areas on the ground floor. Designed by the renowned British architect Lord Norman Foster, the building showcases a blend of modernity and the elegance of traditional architecture, complete with a spacious public courtyard. Located at Plac Marszałka Józefa Piłsudskiego, adjacent to the Saski Garden and the Royal Route, the development offers 33,600 square meters of premium office space and 3,300 square meters of retail and service space easily accessible from the street.

The three distinctive seven-story blocks house not only top-tier office spaces but also boutiques featuring exclusive brands, a prestigious fitness club, cafes, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Additionally, the building includes 441 underground parking spaces, public parking options, and electric vehicle charging stations, along with infrastructure catering to cyclists.

The quality and sustainability of Metropolitan Warsaw are further confirmed by its BREEAM certification at the Excellent level, indicating its commitment to environmentally friendly practices. The building has also achieved a WELL Health-Safety Rating, reflecting the highest standards of safety procedures. Furthermore, its superior digital connectivity and quality of telecommunication solutions are validated by a WiredScore certification at the Platinum level, underscoring the building’s commitment to excellence in all aspects.

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