Business travel shifts focus on strategic meetings

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BursztyNova restaurant opens at Saski Crescent

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good Point V achieves BREEAM Excellent certification for first phase

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Garbe Industrial Real Estate launches sustainable logistics project in Dissen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Develia strengthens Board with new appointment for 2025 term

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PSN launches luxury Pecháčkova renovation in Smíchov

PSN has begun the renovation of a neoclassical building in Prague 5’s Smíchov district as part of its ambitious Pecháčkova project. Once completed, the building will house 21 luxury apartments, one atelier, and two commercial units, blending historical elegance with modern conveniences. The project is scheduled for completion by the end of 2025, with new residents expected to move in early 2026.

The renovation will transform the seven-story building into a high-end residential space, offering a mix of apartment layouts to suit various lifestyles. Smaller units, including 1+kk, 1+1, 2+kk, and 2+1, will cater to compact living needs, while larger 4+kk apartments will provide up to 124 sqm of luxurious space. Each unit will include a private storage cellar, and select ground-floor apartments will feature private gardens.

The crown jewel of the development will be penthouse units in the attic, offering sweeping views of Prague Castle and the Smíchov embankment, perfect for buyers seeking an unparalleled living experience.

The renovation promises to preserve the historical essence of the building while incorporating cutting-edge features. Interior spaces will showcase terrazzo flooring, Venetian stucco walls, and elegant polished glass lighting fixtures. Modern additions include a glass elevator, secure chip-based entry systems, and a camera surveillance network in communal areas.

The building’s façade will be completely restored, and shared spaces such as staircases and lobbies will feature premium finishes, including custom-designed petrol blue panel doors. Residents will also have access to a landscaped inner courtyard with greenery, private gardens, a sauna, and a relaxation zone.

“The Pecháčkova project combines timeless architectural charm with modern luxury to create a unique living experience. With breathtaking views, premium materials, and state-of-the-art amenities, it offers an exceptional opportunity for discerning buyers who value quality and design,” said Jaroslav Macháč, Director of Residential Projects at PSN.

Situated in one of Prague’s most vibrant districts, Pecháčkova benefits from its proximity to cultural and recreational hotspots. Smíchov is renowned for its theaters, galleries, and iconic venues such as Jazz Dock, Švandovo Theater, and Galerie Portheimka. Shoppers will find everything they need at OC Nový Smíchov, home to two multiplex cinemas and numerous stores.

The location also offers excellent transportation options, with the Anděl metro station and several tram lines just minutes away. By car, the city ring road is easily accessible, providing seamless connections across Prague.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Vltava River and Smíchov embankment offer recreational opportunities, including riverside dining, playgrounds, and a skate park. Parks such as Portheimka, Sacre Coeur, and the Kinský Gardens are perfect for jogging, walking, or simply relaxing.

PSN’s Pecháčkova project is set to redefine luxury living in Prague, combining historical architecture with modern sophistication. Its prime location in Smíchov, paired with high-end finishes and thoughtful amenities, is expected to attract a wide range of buyers seeking an elegant yet convenient urban lifestyle.

Construction is well underway, and the project is already generating significant interest in the real estate market as it promises to become a sought-after address in the Czech capital.

Panattoni secures €20.7 million financing for Auchan Distribution Center near Warsaw

Panattoni has obtained €20.7 million in financing from Bank Millennium to develop a state-of-the-art, fully robotic logistics hub for Auchan Polska. The build-to-suit facility will be located in Wilcza Góra, near Warsaw.

Emilia Taczewska-Trojańska, Head of Debt Finance Poland at Panattoni, highlighted the significance of the project:

“This financing from Bank Millennium enables us to deliver a technologically advanced facility of strategic importance to our client. The integration of automated systems will allow Auchan to enhance operational efficiency and scale its e-commerce business in Poland.”

The 18,000 sqm distribution center will support Auchan’s modernized internet platform, leveraging cutting-edge technology from Ocado. Key aspects include:
• Automation & AI Integration: Advanced systems powered by artificial intelligence and machine learning for streamlined order processing.
• Expanded Product Range: Enhanced storage capacity allowing for up to 40,000 products, including fresh produce, groceries, and non-perishables.
• Enhanced E-Commerce Infrastructure: Faster and more efficient order fulfillment, strengthening Auchan’s position in Poland’s e-commerce market.

Construction commenced in Q3 2024, with completion slated for June 2025. Operations are expected to begin by Q4 2025.

The facility is being developed with sustainability in mind and aims for a BREEAM Excellent certification, ensuring lower operating costs and an environmentally friendly design.

This project exemplifies Panattoni’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge logistics solutions tailored to the needs of leading global retailers.

MLP Group launches construction in Spreenhagen

MLP Group is starting the development of its second warehouse park in close proximity to the German capital. The MLP Spreenhagen park will eventually offer 39,000 sqm of modern space. The general contractor role has been assigned to LIST Bau Bielefeld, with the project scheduled for completion and occupancy in Q3 2025.

MLP Group is strengthening its position in the German market, particularly in Brandenburg. The company is beginning construction of a new logistics park in Spreenhagen, marking its second project in the Berlin area. For the first time, MLP Group has appointed LIST Bau Bielefeld as the general contractor. According to plans, potential tenants will be able to start moving into MLP Spreenhagen by September 2025, with construction slated for completion in Q3 2025.

“Germany is our strategic direction for expansion. It’s the largest market in Europe with immense growth potential. Recently, we successfully launched our first green bond offering, raising €300 million. A significant portion of the funds will be allocated to further development in this country. Spreenhagen is our fifth project in the German market, with more in the pipeline,” emphasized Radosław T. Krochta, CEO at MLP Group S.A.

The project will provide a total of 39,000 sqm of modern space, including 33,800 sqm of warehouse areas, 3,300 sqm for comfortable office and social spaces, and 1,900 sqm of mezzanines. The hall’s height will exceed 12 meters. MLP Spreenhagen will offer flexible modules ranging from 3,500 sqm to 24,500 sqm. The spaces are designed primarily for companies in light manufacturing, logistics, and retail, including e-commerce. The new facility will complement the fully leased MLP Business Park Berlin in Ludwigsfelde, also located in Brandenburg and focusing on light industry, retail, and services.

“The start of construction is a significant milestone in the development of MLP Spreenhagen. We are pleased to collaborate with LIST Group and benefit from their extensive experience for our second project in the Berlin-Brandenburg metropolitan area. This is our first joint venture, and construction work will begin in December this year, with the modern park ready for use by Q3 2025,” said Martin Birkert, Chief Country Officer Germany at MLP Group.

“We are delighted to partner with MLP Group on this exciting project. In addition to our expertise as a general contractor, we are proud to bring our knowledge in sustainable development. LIST engineers will handle construction, structural, and installation aspects, allowing us to support MLP Group with the broad range of services LIST Group offers,” added Stephan Langer, Managing Partner at LIST Bau Bielefeld.

The new logistics center will be built on a plot of over 8.4 hectares in the municipality of Spreenhagen, approximately 15 km from Berlin’s outskirts and only 10 km from Tesla’s Gigafactory in Grünheide. The federal A12 highway, connecting Berlin with Frankfurt (Oder) and Poland, provides excellent links to Eastern, Western, and Central Europe.

In line with its sustainability strategy, MLP Group aims for DGNB Gold certification for the facility. To minimize environmental impact, the warehouse will feature photovoltaic installations and high-efficiency heat pumps. Additionally, the sprinkler system will meet FM Global’s highest standards, allowing storage of batteries and accumulators.

In keeping with its build & hold strategy, MLP Group retains completed logistics parks in its portfolio and manages them. All projects undertaken by MLP Group are distinguished by highly attractive logistics park locations, built-to-suit solutions, and ongoing tenant support throughout the lease term.

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