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.

Salling Group plans ambitious expansion of Netto stores in Poland

The Danish retail giant Salling Group, known for its Netto discount stores, has announced plans to significantly expand its presence in Poland. The company aims to increase the number of Netto outlets by 350, bringing the total to 1,000 by the end of 2028. This ambitious expansion reflects Salling Group’s commitment to deepening its investment in the Polish market and enhancing its service to local customers.

Salling Group’s expansion strategy includes the implementation of its innovative Netto 4.0 concept, which is currently being tested in select stores in Grodzisk Mazowiecki and Borzęcin Mały. The concept focuses on improving the shopping experience with new solutions tailored to meet customer needs. Initial feedback has been encouraging, with positive sales results indicating that these changes resonate well with shoppers.

Since opening its first Netto store in Szczecin in 1995, the chain has steadily grown its footprint in Poland. The growth trajectory accelerated in 2020 when Salling Group acquired 300 Tesco stores and several distribution centers, swiftly converting them to the Netto format. This acquisition significantly increased the total number of Netto stores to over 660 across the country, further entrenching the brand in the Polish retail landscape.

Anders Hagh, CEO of Salling Group, expressed the company’s aspirations for the Polish market, stating, “We have big ambitions in Poland, and the coming years will make us an even more important player for Polish customers. With the goal of reaching 1,000 stores, we aim to enhance our position in the market while ensuring we remain responsive to our customers’ needs through innovative solutions.”

Brian Nyeng Olesen, CEO of Netto Polska, echoed Hagh’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of customer engagement and the company’s commitment to making Netto the first choice for Polish shoppers. He remarked, “Thanks to our new strategy, we will open 350 new stores across Poland over the next four years, focusing on how we can become even more integral to our customers’ lives.” Olesen highlighted that all new store openings planned for the end of the year will incorporate the new 4.0 concept, aligning with the company’s goal to continuously improve the shopping experience.

In conjunction with its store expansion, Salling Group has unveiled a new business strategy for the years 2025-2028, which includes plans for acquisitions and mergers in existing and new markets. The strategy sets an ambitious goal of achieving an annual turnover of over PLN 57 billion (over DKK 100 billion) while allocating up to PLN 7.5 billion (up to DKK 13 billion) for investments. The company also plans to invest significantly in new systems and solutions to support its 60,000 employees across Denmark, Germany, and Poland.

Salling Group’s CEO underscored the company’s readiness to seize emerging opportunities: “In recent years, we have established a position that enables us to act quickly and confidently. Our goal is to make Salling Group an even larger and more influential player in the retail sector, positively impacting the daily lives of our over 12 million customers each week.” He also emphasized the group’s commitment to giving back to the community through its ownership structure, the Salling Foundation.

Additionally, the company plans to launch the Salling Seeds fund, which will invest PLN 285 million (approximately DKK 500 million) in innovative startups within technology, sustainable development, and retail. This initiative aims to acquire new knowledge and solutions that better serve customer needs.

Currently, Netto operates more than 660 stores in Poland and employs over 9,000 people. Salling Group, which includes notable brands such as Bilka and F-tex, operates a total of 1,746 stores across Denmark, Germany, and Poland. The company reported a turnover of PLN 40 billion (DKK 70 billion) for 2023, positioning itself as a key player in the European retail market. The Salling Group is solely owned by the Salling Foundation, comprising the Kobmand Herman Sallings Fond and the Kobmand Ferdinand Sallings Mindefond, which further underscores the company’s commitment to social responsibility.

Source: Salling Group and ISBnews

Eurozone manufacturing PMI drops to 45 points in September, indicating economic weakness

The Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) for the eurozone manufacturing sector fell to 45 points in September, down from 45.8 points in August, according to final data released by S&P Global. This decline reflects ongoing challenges facing the region’s industrial landscape and underscores the mounting economic pressures.

The latest PMI reading not only fell short of August’s figure but also came in below market expectations, which had anticipated a slightly lower value of 44.8 points. After three consecutive months of stability, the HCOB Eurozone Manufacturing PMI has now signaled a notable downturn in the overall condition of factories across the euro area, indicating a clear and accelerated deterioration in economic performance.

September’s PMI represents the lowest level recorded since the beginning of the year and is below the average observed during the current 27-month slowdown in industrial activity. This persistent decline raises concerns about the sustainability of the eurozone’s manufacturing sector amid an increasingly challenging economic environment.

Despite the grim figures, there remains a semblance of optimism among eurozone producers. While the majority of manufacturers forecast growth over the next 12 months, those anticipating a decline still outnumber them. However, the level of optimism has weakened, reaching its lowest point in ten months and falling significantly below the long-term average.

The PMI is a critical indicator for gauging industrial activity, with readings above 50 points suggesting expansion and those below indicating contraction. As the eurozone grapples with these recent developments, the focus will likely shift to how manufacturers can navigate these challenges and whether the outlook for growth can improve in the coming months. The current data suggests that while some optimism persists, the road ahead for eurozone industry may be fraught with difficulties.

Source: PMI and ISBnews

Marktlink Opens First Office in Central and Eastern Europe, Expanding M&A Services in Poland

Marktlink, an independent M&A consulting firm focused on medium-sized enterprises, has officially opened its first office in Central and Eastern Europe, located in Warsaw. This marks the 18th office in Marktlink’s European network, further solidifying the firm’s commitment to providing tailored mergers and acquisitions (M&A) advisory services.

Anna Maria Jędrzejczak has been appointed Managing Partner of the new Polish branch. With extensive experience in the M&A field, Jędrzejczak previously served as M&A Director and co-founded EY’s Trading and Acre Assemblies Team, successfully managing numerous high-profile market transactions for both sellers and buyers.

Founded in the Netherlands in 1996, Marktlink has established itself as a trusted advisor for European entrepreneurs, guiding them through the complex processes of buying and selling businesses. The firm has successfully completed over 1,200 transactions to date and is currently one of the fastest-growing independent M&A advisors in Europe, boasting an international team of 300 specialists across offices in the Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, Germany, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and now Poland. Marktlink expects to execute approximately 150 transactions this year.

Managing Partner Ferry Nahon emphasized the strategic importance of Poland in the firm’s expansion plans:
“Independent research shows that 70% of European entrepreneurs plan to sell their businesses in the next decade. Poland is a significant economic player in the region, known for its solid trade relations and a diversified economy that fosters entrepreneurial growth. Our Polish office aims to support SME sector entrepreneurs, tapping into the great development potential of this market.”

Nahon added that Jędrzejczak’s local expertise and deep understanding of the business and investment ecosystem will be crucial to the firm’s success in the region. He stated, “The opening of the Polish office enhances Marktlink’s European presence, allowing entrepreneurs across the continent access to our unique network. Combined with our data-driven approach and extensive transaction experience, we aim to deliver the best possible M&A solutions.”

As Marktlink embarks on this new chapter, the firm is poised to make a significant impact on the Polish M&A landscape, providing valuable support to local businesses navigating the complexities of mergers and acquisitions.

Source: Marktlink and ISBnews
Photo: Managing Partner Ferry Nahon – Marktlink

Czech manufacturing industry declines again in September, continuing downward trend

The Czech manufacturing industry experienced another setback in September, marking a continuation of the sector’s decline that began in June 2022. According to a report by S&P Global, the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) fell to 46 points in September, down from 46.7 points in August. This reading remains well below the 50-point threshold that separates growth from contraction, signaling ongoing struggles for the industry.

Production volumes continued to drop throughout the month, with many companies citing weak demand as the primary cause. However, the rate of decline was slightly slower compared to the overall trend seen in recent months.

In addition to decreased demand, Czech manufacturers faced challenges with extended supply deadlines and rising operational costs. These increases were largely driven by limited availability of materials and escalating transportation expenses. In response, companies began raising the prices of finished products in April 2023 in an effort to offset these growing costs.

The Czech manufacturing sector remains under pressure as it grapples with persistent headwinds, further highlighting the challenges ahead for industry players.

Source: CTK

REAX advisory launches Germany’s first tendering pool for asset managers

a significant development for the real estate investment sector, REAX Advisory GmbH has unveiled Germany’s first tendering pool designed specifically for asset managers. The platform offers a streamlined process for asset managers, investors, and Alternative Investment Fund Managers (AIFMs) to connect and collaborate efficiently.

The newly launched platform allows asset managers to register and present their credentials, offering potential institutional investors or AIF management companies a carefully curated selection of top-tier candidates. Investors, in turn, can customize their search to find asset managers best suited to their real estate investment needs, making the tender process faster and more efficient.

At the heart of the tendering pool is the “REAX Partner Check,” a robust evaluation process that reviews the qualifications and strengths of each asset manager. This assessment not only helps investors find the best match but also provides valuable insights for asset managers to optimize and expand their services.

Annika Dylong, Managing Director of REAX Advisory, highlighted the competitive advantage of the platform:
“The professionalization of partner management in real estate investment is becoming a critical factor. Our tendering pool is the first product tailored specifically for this segment. Having worked with a wide range of asset managers, we can confidently identify the best fit for each portfolio’s unique challenges.”

Her counterpart, Kai Nelson Dreisigacker, also emphasized the growing demand for such a service:
“The experiences we’ve gained from managing asset manager selection for institutional clients have shaped the development of this tendering pool. The interest we’ve received so far validates the need for a platform like this. We welcome other asset managers to join and benefit from the opportunities it offers.”

This innovative solution positions REAX Advisory at the forefront of partner management in real estate investment, providing a vital tool for investors seeking top-quality asset managers to handle their portfolios.

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