CIRRO Parcel leases space at CTPark Amsterdam City for Dutch expansion

CIRRO Parcel has signed a lease agreement for 10,000 square metres of logistics space and an additional 600 square metres of office space at CTPark Amsterdam City. The site will serve as the company’s new operational base in the Netherlands, supporting the growth of its last-mile delivery services.

CIRRO Parcel, the last-mile delivery arm of CIRRO, a global logistics and fulfilment provider, selected the location for its proximity to Amsterdam’s urban centre and major transportation networks. The move is intended to improve delivery efficiency, reduce transport mileage, and support the company’s sustainability goals.

CTPark Amsterdam City is located in the Port of Amsterdam and provides access to the city centre via road and canal networks, including the A10 ring motorway. The site includes over 120,000 square metres of logistics space, cross-dock facilities, and an on-site 5.7 MWp solar plant, which contributes to energy self-sufficiency.

Heiko Koop, Managing Director of CTP Netherlands, noted that over half of the logistics park is now leased, citing increased demand for last-mile distribution hubs. He added that the site’s location and energy-efficient infrastructure address the evolving needs of logistics providers.

Mandy Ho, General Manager of CIRRO Parcel Netherlands, stated that the company selected the site as part of its strategy to strengthen its delivery network across the country. She highlighted the site’s environmental credentials and operational advantages as factors in the decision.

The transaction was advised by Savills. Maarten Bulstra, Associate Logistics & Industrial at Savills, described the lease as a strategic move that aligns with CIRRO’s operational requirements and CTPark’s focus on sustainable logistics infrastructure.

DIW Berlin: Nuclear fusion remains irrelevant for energy transition

According to a new study from the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW Berlin), nuclear fusion is unlikely to play a practical role in the energy transition in the foreseeable future. Despite notable technological advancements and increasing private-sector involvement, researchers at DIW conclude that fusion energy remains far from commercial viability.

The analysis, conducted by the Department of Energy, Transport, and Environment at DIW, highlights that many of the fundamental scientific and engineering challenges of nuclear fusion remain unresolved. Study co-author Christian von Hirschhausen notes that “from an energy perspective, nuclear fusion is no closer to market use today than it was in the 1950s.” He emphasises that it is therefore irrelevant to the urgent goals of transitioning to sustainable energy sources.

A key focus of the study is the international ITER project in France, designed as an experimental nuclear fusion reactor. Although initially intended to demonstrate fusion energy by the 2020s, the timeline has been repeatedly delayed. Current estimates suggest the demonstration reactor may not become operational until the second half of the century. Costs have also risen dramatically—from an original estimate of €5 billion to upwards of €50 billion.

The DIW researchers analysed decades of expert forecasts and found that expectations for when fusion would reach commercial readiness have consistently remained 20 to 40 years away, regardless of when the forecasts were made. This phenomenon, described as the “fusion constant,” illustrates the persistent gap between promise and practical implementation.

While publicly funded fusion research remains focused on long-term goals, private companies have brought new energy to the field. In the past decade, around 80 privately financed small and mid-sized firms have attracted billions of dollars in investment. Many of these firms are exploring new approaches, including advanced magnetic coils and laser technology. However, most of these efforts also stop short of aiming for energy production in the near term.

The study’s authors argue that current research structures should be reconsidered. They recommend shifting a portion of public investment away from fundamental research and towards applied research that could generate more immediate and practical results. Claudia Kemfert, co-author of the study, concluded that nuclear fusion should be viewed as a long-term research endeavour with no realistic short-term impact on energy supply. She called for greater focus on technologies and policies that can contribute directly to the energy transition.

DIW Berlin’s findings underline the importance of aligning energy research funding with the practical demands of climate policy and the growing need for scalable, clean energy sources.

UOKiK investigates potential pyramid schemes in online investment projects

The Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) has launched formal investigations into two online platforms—BE Poland and GrowUp Session—to determine whether their operations may constitute illegal pyramid-type promotional systems. The President of UOKiK, Tomasz Chróstny, has indicated that these inquiries are part of broader market surveillance targeting online investment schemes promising fast and high returns.

Both BE Poland and GrowUp Session offer educational packages related to online trading and investments, including forex and cryptocurrency markets. However, UOKiK is examining whether these platforms primarily rely on recruiting new participants as the basis for generating income, rather than on the sale of legitimate services or products.

In the case of BE Poland, the platform operates as part of the international BE (Better Experience) network headquartered in Dubai. Polish participants promote the service under the name TPR (Trading People Revolution), selling subscriptions to trading tools and platforms. Recruitment is largely carried out via social media, particularly Instagram, with individuals receiving compensation for referring others.

Similarly, GrowUp Session markets training packages and encourages participants to join its affiliate program. Promoters often present themselves on social platforms as financially successful, attributing their lifestyle to income from the program. This image is used to attract new recruits, raising concerns that the system may be structured around recruitment rather than genuine educational services.

According to UOKiK, schemes of this nature often use the language of entrepreneurship and self-improvement—described as “programs,” “projects,” or “online earnings”—to mask what may be a pyramid structure. Promoters, sometimes influencers or celebrities, lend legitimacy to these ventures through public appearances or livestreamed events. Participants typically pay for access, then earn money by recruiting others, who in turn do the same. The model becomes unsustainable when the flow of new entrants slows, often resulting in financial losses for those at the lower levels of the structure.

UOKiK warns that consumers, particularly young people or those in unstable financial situations, are often drawn into such schemes by promises of high profits with little effort or risk. The regulator urges caution and scepticism when evaluating online business proposals, especially when returns depend largely on bringing in new members.

These actions are part of a broader enforcement effort. UOKiK has previously intervened in cases involving platforms such as iGenius, Dream Trips, and Jifu. Last year, fines totalling nearly PLN 1 million were imposed on companies associated with Selfmaker Smart Solution and Selfmaker Technology for similar practices.

If a scheme is determined to be a pyramid system, it may also be considered a criminal offence under Article 286 of the Polish Penal Code, which addresses organised fraud. In such cases, UOKiK advises anyone with suspicions to report them to the police or public prosecutor’s office.

Żabka plans to open over 1100 new stores in 2025

Żabka Group announced plans to open more than 1,100 new stores in 2025, an increase of 10% compared to previous expectations. The company also aims to open over 1,000 stores annually in the following years, continuing its rapid network expansion. The announcement was made by Chief Financial Officer Marta Wrochna-Laastowska during a recent videoconference.

Żabka expects to maintain a stable adjusted EBITDA margin this year. The adjusted net profit margin is forecast at approximately 3% in the short term, with a target of 4.5% in the medium term. Like-for-like (LfL) sales growth for the first quarter of 2025 is projected at a moderate single-digit level.

Investment spending for 2025 will largely focus on development initiatives. According to Wrochna-Laastowska, capital expenditures (capex) will not exceed 2% of total customer sales. The majority of these funds will be allocated to the opening of the planned 1,100 new stores.

The company also anticipates LfL sales growth to remain in the average to high single-digit range throughout 2025, building on an 8.3% increase achieved in 2024.

In financial terms, Żabka Group reported consolidated sales to end customers of PLN 27.3 billion in 2024, up from PLN 22.75 billion the previous year. Żabka Polska accounted for PLN 26.17 billion of that total, while the group’s New Development Engines generated PLN 1.1 billion in revenue, compared to PLN 470 million in 2023.

The group’s adjusted EBITDA margin reached 12.8% in 2024, nearing the upper end of the company’s 12–13% target range. Net profit rose to PLN 593 million, up from PLN 356 million a year earlier. Adjusted net profit stood at PLN 714 million, compared to PLN 430 million in 2023. Reported EBITDA reached PLN 3.36 billion, with adjusted EBITDA at PLN 3.51 billion, both improving significantly year-on-year.

Żabka Group operates one of Poland’s largest convenience retail networks through a franchise model. Its ecosystem also includes Żabka Nano, a chain of autonomous, cashier-free stores, and a range of digital services.

Berlin Hyp reports strong financial performance in 2024 amid integration with LBBW

Berlin Hyp concluded the 2024 financial year with a significant improvement in profitability and a rise in new lending volume. The bank reported profit before income tax of €527 million, more than four times higher than the previous year. This increase was partly driven by the reversal of provision reserves in connection with the bank’s ongoing integration into Landesbank Baden-Württemberg (LBBW).

Despite a challenging economic and political environment, Berlin Hyp expanded its operating business and continued to implement strategic initiatives. New lending rose to €6.9 billion, compared to €6.5 billion in 2023. This included €2.6 billion in new financing and €4.3 billion in extensions. Germany remained the primary market for new business, accounting for 66% of lending, while international markets—particularly the Netherlands, Poland, and France—gained importance.

Berlin Hyp also strengthened its collaboration with Germany’s savings banks. In 2024, it maintained active relationships with 179 institutions, over half of which used the ImmoDigital platform to access the bank’s investment products. €1.2 billion in new lending was generated through these partnerships.

Progress was made in the bank’s ongoing transformation into a centre of expertise for commercial real estate financing within the LBBW Group. Integration of corporate functions and core systems proceeded according to plan. Berlin Hyp also continued to advance the digitalisation of key processes and system upgrades.

Net interest income increased significantly to €559.3 million, up from €498.3 million in 2023, primarily due to growth in mortgage lending and income from interest rate risk management. Net commission income declined slightly to €16.3 million, in line with the volume of contracted lending.

Operating expenses rose to €215.1 million from €207 million in the previous year. Higher personnel costs and increased depreciation, driven by integration-related activities, were partially offset by lower general operating expenses, including the elimination of the €16.4 million bank levy previously paid in 2023.

Risk provisioning saw a net reversal of €165.3 million, compared to a net allocation of €152.1 million the year before. This was mainly due to the reversal of provision reserves associated with the integration into LBBW. Valuation allowances on individual real estate positions were made, but remained lower than the previous year. In contrast, the securities portfolio recorded a valuation loss of €2.4 million, compared to a gain of €16.8 million in 2023.

The bank’s capital position remained stable, with no further allocations made to the general banking risk fund, which remains at €800 million. After taxes of €82.3 million, the profit transferred to LBBW amounted to €444.7 million, up from €75 million in net income the previous year.

Berlin Hyp’s balance sheet total increased to €36.4 billion, up €0.9 billion from the end of 2023. The common equity tier 1 ratio stood at 14.2%, and the total capital ratio was 15.1%. The cost-income ratio improved to 37.1%, down from 40.0% in 2023.

Looking ahead, Berlin Hyp expects modest economic growth globally, with stagnation anticipated in Germany due to structural challenges and geopolitical uncertainties. Despite this, the bank forecasts an increase in lending activity in 2025 and anticipates renewed interest in the real estate investment market, especially from institutional capital.

The integration of Berlin Hyp with LBBW’s commercial real estate operations is scheduled for completion in August 2025. Following the merger, all real estate financing under LBBW will be consolidated under the Berlin Hyp brand. The bank aims to become a central hub for commercial real estate expertise in Europe, offering clients access to a broader product range and services through the combined strengths of both institutions.

“We are entering a new phase for Berlin Hyp,” said Sascha Klaus, Chair of the Board of Management. “With greater market presence and flexibility, supported by LBBW’s full range of offerings, we are well positioned to deliver value for our clients and partners in the savings bank sector.”

Poland’s tax exemptions for mothers could outperform 800+ program

As Poland faces an intensifying demographic crisis, experts suggest that the country may need to rethink its pro-family policies. Despite the introduction of child benefit programs like 500+ and its successor 800+, birth rates in Poland have continued to decline, prompting calls for new solutions—such as income tax exemptions for working mothers, a model already in place in Hungary.

According to the latest data from Statistics Poland (GUS), the country’s population could shrink to 30.9 million by 2060, a drop of nearly 7 million compared to 2022. At the same time, Poland’s fertility rate has fallen to 1.16—well below the 2.1 replacement level and one of the lowest in the European Union.

This trend is expected to accelerate the ageing of the population. Projections show that by 2050, 40% of Poles will be past working age. Currently, there are 35 retirees per 100 working-age citizens; by 2060, that figure may rise to 64, placing significant strain on the pension system and labour market.

While the 800+ program has improved financial conditions for lower-income families, its overall impact on fertility remains limited. According to experts from Personnel Service, the current benefits structure lacks incentives for middle- and high-income families to have more children. They argue that future policy should better integrate financial support with long-term family stability and labour market participation—particularly for women.

A potential alternative is the approach taken by Hungary. Starting in October 2024, Hungarian mothers with three or more children are fully exempt from income tax for life. By 2026, the program is expected to include mothers with two children, expanding to younger age groups over time. This policy is projected to boost large families’ incomes by nearly 19% annually. For example, a woman earning the equivalent of PLN 6,000 gross per month could retain an extra PLN 1,000 in net income.

Hungary’s broader pro-family strategy includes subsidised home loans, grants for family vehicles, and tax incentives for young parents. Since the implementation of these policies, Hungary’s fertility rate has risen from 1.23 in 2011 to 1.55 in 2023. In contrast, Poland’s fertility rate has not exceeded 1.4 in recent years and reached an all-time low in 2023.

“Demographics represent one of Poland’s most urgent long-term challenges,” says Krzysztof Inglot, labour market expert and founder of Personnel Service. “Without bold action, the consequences for the labour market and pension system could be irreversible. Introducing income tax exemptions for working mothers—similar to Hungary’s model—could offer a stronger and more targeted pro-family incentive.”

With fewer births and ongoing emigration among younger Poles, experts agree that policy changes are necessary. They argue that adopting elements of Hungary’s approach could help reverse negative trends and create a more supportive environment for families of all income levels.

Source: Personnel Service

Żabka eyes international expansion, keeps focus on Romania for now

Polish convenience store chain Żabka is keeping its international growth ambitions on the table, with Romania currently serving as its main focus. While the company has not confirmed any immediate plans to enter additional foreign markets, it has made clear that it does not rule out further expansion in the future.

Żabka’s operations in Romania began in 2023 with the launch of its first stores under the brand “Fresco by Żabka.” The pilot project has since developed steadily, with more locations opening and a growing customer base becoming familiar with the company’s model of quick, convenient shopping. The Romanian market was selected as a strategic entry point due to its size, urbanisation trends, and growing appetite for modern retail formats.

“We’re continuing to build our presence in Romania and evaluating the market’s long-term potential. At the same time, we are closely observing opportunities in other countries,” Żabka’s spokesperson said. “However, we want to ensure that our current operations are scalable and sustainable before making further international moves.”

Żabka Group’s cautious approach reflects a broader strategy of responsible growth. In recent years, the company has expanded its footprint across Poland with an emphasis on digital services, automated stores, and a franchise model that has proven successful domestically.

The convenience retail sector across Europe continues to attract attention from investors and operators, especially in urban areas where consumers favour speed, accessibility, and a broad product mix. Żabka’s model, which combines traditional stores with unmanned formats and digital innovation, is seen as adaptable to a variety of markets.

Although no official announcements have been made regarding additional foreign entries, industry analysts believe countries in Central and Eastern Europe could be potential targets for Żabka’s future expansion, given regional similarities in consumer habits and retail development.

For now, the company remains focused on building its brand and operations in Romania, where its performance could serve as a benchmark for future ventures abroad.

Deka Immobilien acquires modern logistics facility in Belgium

Deka Immobilien has acquired a newly developed logistics property in Mechelen, Belgium, from MG Real Estate. The asset will become part of the portfolio of the Deka-ImmobilienEuropa open-ended real estate fund. The transaction amount has not been disclosed.

Completed in 2024, the MG Park Malinas distribution centre offers approximately 71,500 square metres of leasable space, including 110 parking spaces and 33 loading docks. The facility is fully leased on a long-term basis to a subsidiary of Kellanova, the food manufacturing company formerly known as Kellogg’s. Located near Kellanova’s production site, the facility enables efficient distribution across the Benelux region and northern France. MG Real Estate will continue to manage the property, supporting the tenant’s day-to-day operations.

The logistics centre is situated in Mechelen, a key logistics hub positioned between Brussels Airport and the Port of Antwerp. The region is part of the Brussels–Antwerp–Ghent logistics triangle, which offers strong motorway connections and infrastructure for supply chain activities. A rooftop photovoltaic installation with an estimated capacity of 9.5 MW is planned for the building. The property is also targeting a BREEAM “Excellent” sustainability certification.

Jack Schulte, branch manager for Deka Immobilien in Brussels, noted that the acquisition represents the company’s first step into the Belgian logistics sector. “Following our long-standing presence in Belgium with offices, retail properties, and hotels, we are pleased to expand into logistics. Belgium’s central location in Europe makes it a strategic market for us,” he said.

MG Real Estate CEO Ignace Tytgat emphasised the significance of redeveloping a former brownfield site into a high-quality logistics centre. He added that MG would continue to support Kellanova through its facility management services.

With this acquisition, Deka-ImmobilienEuropa secures a modern logistics asset in a competitive sub-market, underpinned by a reliable long-term tenant. The property is expected to generate stable income for the fund over the long term.

Construction prices in Poland slightly up in January 2025

The latest report from Statistics Poland (GUS) shows that prices for construction and assembly works in Poland saw a modest overall increase in January 2025 compared to the previous month. According to the study, the index of construction and assembly production prices rose by 0.1%, marking continued inflationary pressure in the construction sector.

Across all major categories of construction activity, prices recorded slight increases. Building construction costs went up by 0.1%, civil engineering projects (including infrastructure works) rose by 0.2%, and prices for specialised construction work also increased by 0.1%.

The report highlights specific growth in prices for a range of construction and assembly works. Notable increases were observed in the installation of heating and mechanical systems (+0.4%), mechanised earthworks (+0.3%), masonry structures (+0.2%), and sewage installations (+0.2%). Prices for water supply network installations also rose slightly (+0.1%).

In terms of buildings, construction costs for multi-family residential buildings (IV and V storeys), collective housing, retail pavilions, production halls, and medium-voltage cable lines also experienced small increases, typically between 0.1% and 0.2%.

Among infrastructure projects, expressways saw a price rise of 0.3%, while highway construction rose by 0.2%. Urban roads and access streets remained mostly stable, with some slight variation across categories.

Bridge construction also recorded modest price increases. Projects involving reinforced concrete viaducts and bridges built with monolithic techniques rose by up to 0.2%, while the cost of bridges using prefabricated elements increased by 0.1%.

The report, conducted by the Trade and Services Department of Statistics Poland, collects data from selected construction companies nationwide and serves both informational and practical purposes. The indices provided are used in project cost estimations, contract valuations, and investment planning by both public and private sector entities.

The January 2025 update confirms ongoing cost pressure in Poland’s construction industry, although at a moderate pace. It reflects both steady demand for construction services and adjustments linked to labour and materials pricing.

Life expectancy in Poland: Latest data shows detailed age-based breakdown

Statistics Poland has released its latest update on life expectancy for both sexes combined, presenting detailed figures by age for 2025. The data provides an essential reference for policymakers, researchers, and institutions working in areas such as health, pensions, and demographic analysis.

The figures, presented in months, reflect the average number of months a person of a specific age is expected to live. For example, at age 30, the life expectancy stands at approximately 591.5 months (just under 49.3 years), while at age 40, the expectation decreases to 477.6 months (nearly 39.8 years). This decline continues steadily with age, as would be expected in actuarial calculations.

The statistical release includes a month-by-month breakdown for each year of age, offering a granular look at how life expectancy changes even within a single year. For instance, a person aged 50 and 0 months has a life expectancy of 367.8 months, while someone who has turned 50 and is 11 months into their 51st year has an expectancy of 358.0 months.

Source: GUS

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