Panattoni Income Fund strengthens leadership team with key appointments

Panattoni Income Fund has expanded its leadership team with the appointment of Olaf Bruns as Managing Director Business Development DACH and Piotr Boruc as Head of Finance and Reporting. These strategic hires reinforce the fund’s commitment to institutional investor relations and financial excellence as it continues its growth in the pan-European industrial and logistics real estate market.

Olaf Bruns brings over 25 years of experience in real estate and renewable energy investment, with a strong track record in fund and portfolio management, international business development, and institutional investment strategies. Before joining Panattoni Income Fund, he served as Managing Director of BRAWO Fund Management, overseeing fund operations for BRAWO GROUP and Volksbank BRAWO. His career includes leadership roles at GARBE Industrial Real Estate, UBS Global AM, CBRE Global Investors, and Warburg-HIH Invest Real Estate, managing assets exceeding €20 billion and transactions worth over €6 billion.

In his new role, Bruns will focus on expanding and strengthening relationships with institutional investors and leading investment structuring and transaction management in the DACH region. His expertise aligns with Panattoni Income Fund’s strategy of delivering high-quality investment solutions in the growing logistics real estate sector.

Piotr Boruc, who joined earlier this year, brings more than 25 years of experience in finance, banking, and auditing, with 17 years focused on real estate and fund management. He has held senior finance roles at Mapletree, Urban Partners, and NREP, where he played a key role in setting up and managing financial platforms. As Head of Finance and Reporting, he will oversee financial strategy, reporting, and transparency, ensuring alignment with Panattoni Income Fund’s long-term investment objectives.

Panattoni Income Fund, headquartered in Luxembourg, operates as an open-ended, evergreen investment vehicle, offering investors exposure to the dynamic pan-European industrial and logistics real estate sector. The fund focuses on acquiring stabilized assets and forward-purchasing pre-let developments, maintaining high sustainability standards. Investments span key markets where Panattoni operates, including Central and Eastern Europe, Germany, the Netherlands, France, the UK, Italy, Spain, Austria, and Scandinavia.

PSN to launch major Brno One development, transforming brownfield site in Plynárenská street

PSN is set to begin construction on its first major project in Brno, transforming a brownfield site on Plynárenská Street into Brno One, a modern mixed-use urban district. The project, spanning several years, will integrate residential, commercial, and leisure spaces to revitalize the area.

The first phase of construction will introduce a multifunctional building with two landmark towers, Neon and Xenon, designed by the A8000 architectural studio. This stage will include 188 residential and accommodation units, complemented by five commercial spaces. The development will also feature communal amenities such as bike storage, laundry facilities, and rooftop terraces. Construction is set to begin in the third quarter of 2025, with completion expected by the fourth quarter of 2027.

Brno One is part of a larger urban transformation initiative aimed at revitalizing the Cejl-Křenová district, an area identified as a strategic growth hub. The 4.5-hectare site is ideally located near Brno’s city center and has the potential to become a vibrant new residential and commercial district. According to Petr Pospíšil, Director of PSN’s Brno branch, the location has immense potential to evolve into a lively urban quarter of Brno. He believes Brno One will bring positive change to the area, similar to the transformations seen in the former Vlněnka and Vaňkovka districts. The project aims to provide high-quality housing that benefits both future residents and the local community.

PSN is currently in discussions with the city to integrate the project with the nearby Svitava River embankment, transforming it into an attractive public space inspired by modern European urbanism, similar to Copenhagen’s waterfront developments.

The first phase of Brno One will focus on smaller, high-demand apartments, particularly one-bedroom and two-bedroom layouts, catering to young professionals, students, and first-time buyers. The top floors will feature larger units, and most apartments will include balconies or private gardens. The project will also provide ample parking and storage space. Pospíšil anticipates strong demand for these apartments, particularly from young professionals and investors. He sees Brno One as a high-quality urban space with significant growth potential, making it an attractive opportunity for buyers and investors alike. Future phases of the project will introduce family and rental housing, further enhancing the diverse residential offering.

Residents will benefit from premium communal spaces, including bike storage, stroller rooms, and laundry facilities in each block. Two rooftop terraces will serve as social and leisure areas, one featuring a workout zone and urban gardening beds, and the other designed as a relaxation space with an outdoor kitchen, barbecue area, and panoramic city views. The project will also include retail spaces, featuring shops, cafes, and services for both residents and the surrounding community. The development will be designed to prioritize safety and accessibility, with well-lit pedestrian-friendly streets and CCTV surveillance.

The A8000 architectural studio has designed Brno One to blend industrial heritage with contemporary design. The eight-story residential buildings will incorporate corrugated metal, glass facades, and light blue copilite panels, referencing the site’s industrial past while embracing modern aesthetics. Anna Vršková of A8000 explained that their design integrates industrial elements with contemporary urban living, ensuring a dynamic yet harmonious residential environment. The project’s material choices, including dark-framed windows inspired by Brno’s functionalist architecture and a balance of concrete and greenery, contribute to the distinctive character of the development.

Beyond housing, the Brno One development will include office spaces and additional retail units, with future plans for a hotel. The project is also designed with sustainability and energy efficiency in mind, achieving Category A energy certification. Eco-friendly features include solar panels on rooftops to power communal areas, electric vehicle charging stations in underground garages, and heat recovery systems in select apartments. The project will also incorporate rainwater collection for irrigation and bike-sharing stations with surrounding green spaces.

Located along the Svitava River, Brno One benefits from excellent transport connections, providing quick access to Brno’s city center, public transit hubs, and the main train station. The city’s new master plan includes a future urban avenue with a tram line, further enhancing accessibility. Plans to develop a river promenade and new cycling infrastructure will also contribute to the district’s long-term transformation.

With construction set to begin later this year, Brno One represents a landmark project in Brno’s urban redevelopment, offering modern, sustainable living in a dynamic and rapidly developing district.

Revetas Capital secures lease extension with VSoft at B4B in Krakow

Revetas Capital has announced the lease extension of Polish IT company VSoft at the Bonarka for Business (B4B) office complex in Krakow. VSoft, a leading provider of financial sector solutions, will continue to lease 1,777 sqm of office space in Building E, reinforcing its nearly decade-long presence at B4B.

VSoft, a Polish joint-stock company with 29 years of experience, specializes in developing IT solutions for the financial industry. The company’s decision to extend its lease reflects its commitment to maintaining a high-quality work environment for its employees.

“Renewing our lease at Bonarka for Business is a natural step for us,” said Jakub Głąb, Vice-President of VSoft SA. “The office space meets our expectations in terms of work comfort and employee amenities. Additionally, the central location in Krakow allows us to seamlessly integrate modern technologies while remaining closely connected to the local community. We are proud to continue growing our company in a space that aligns with our organizational culture.”

Revetas Capital, the fund manager of B4B, emphasized the value of long-term tenant relationships and the quality of amenities at the complex.

Antonio Pomes, Director – Country Head of Portfolio Management at Revetas Capital, commented: “We greatly appreciate the trust VSoft has placed in B4B as its preferred workspace. The amenities and building standards have played a key role in their decision to stay. This success is the result of strong collaboration between Revetas Capital, property manager CERES, and leasing manager TriGranit, all working together to maintain high-quality office spaces and services.”

Anna Krztoń, Leasing Director at TriGranit, highlighted the strength of the partnership with VSoft, noting that this marks the second lease renewal since 2015.

“We are excited to continue our nearly decade-long collaboration and remain committed to supporting VSoft’s success and future expansion,” Krztoń added.

With this lease extension, B4B further cements its position as a premier office location in Krakow, offering top-tier facilities, a strategic location, and a business-friendly environment that continues to attract and retain leading companies.

Prague’s housing deficit deepens as property prices accelerate

Prague’s housing shortage continues to worsen, despite a significant increase in the number of permitted flats last year. According to the Czech Statistical Office, a total of 8,191 flats were approved for construction in 2024, including 6,967 in apartment buildings. While this represents a 43% and 64% year-on-year increase, respectively, the rise is primarily attributed to the low comparison base of 2023 rather than a genuine acceleration in housing development.

Crucially, the number of permitted flats remains below the required 10,000 units per year—a threshold that has not been met since 2006. As a result, Prague’s housing deficit has grown to nearly 90,000 units over the past two decades, further straining affordability.

The persistent shortage of new housing is the primary driver of soaring property prices. Over the past decade, the price of new flats in Prague has surged by more than 160%. In 2024 alone, prices increased by 7%, exceeding expectations set at the beginning of the year.

The situation is exacerbated by record levels of demand, which is expected to intensify further as mortgage rates continue to decline. The Czech National Bank (CNB) may introduce additional rate cuts, further stimulating housing demand and price growth.

Despite the urgent need for housing, permitting delays and complications with the new building law and digitalization continue to hinder development. Without meaningful reforms, analysts predict that Prague’s housing prices will continue to rise by at least 5-10% annually in the coming years.

With no immediate solutions in sight, the housing crisis in Prague is set to persist, pushing affordability further out of reach for many residents.

Source: CENTRAL GROUP
Photo: calculation by Central Group, number of permitted flats in Prague according to the Czech Statistical Office

A new generation of wealthy seniors emerges in the Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is witnessing a new phenomenon in retirement living, as a generation of financially independent seniors enters retirement with accumulated wealth, allowing them to live active and fulfilling lives. According to experts from Fichtner Wealth Managers, this trend, already common in Western countries, the U.S., and Asia, is now becoming a reality in Czech society.

Financial Security Through Strategic Investments

Unlike previous generations, these new retirees have spent decades strategically growing and protecting their family wealth. Many own their homes mortgage-free, while others hold multiple properties generating passive income. This financial independence minimizes their monthly expenses and provides the flexibility to focus on personal interests, travel, and philanthropy.

“Many of these seniors are financially secure because they invested wisely over time,” explains Josef Podlipný, Partner and Head of Sales at Fichtner Wealth Managers. “They are able to enjoy life without financial stress while also supporting their families and engaging in meaningful activities.”

Aging Actively: Philanthropy and Family Support

This generation of wealthy retirees is not just living comfortably but also actively contributing to society. Many engage in charitable initiatives, community projects, and family support, leveraging their financial stability to make a lasting impact.

Planning for Financial Freedom in Retirement

The key to achieving financial freedom in retirement, experts say, lies in early and disciplined investment. High-earning professionals and business owners who regularly save and invest in financial assets or real estate from an early age often reach a point where they work by choice, not necessity, by their 50s.

“We have clients who have built multi-million-crown fortunes simply by investing consistently over 15-20 years,” says Podlipný. “One successful manager we recently worked with has a property portfolio exceeding CZK 100 million, thanks in part to a strategic investment approach.”

Wealth Management and Inheritance Challenges

For many successful entrepreneurs, retirement brings a shift in focus from business growth to family wealth management. One of the biggest concerns they face is how to pass on their wealth without diminishing their children’s financial responsibility.

“Responsible wealth holders understand that while they want to support their children, they also want to instill financial independence and discipline,” Podlipný adds.

Seniors as a Valuable Asset to Society

The emergence of financially independent retirees is transforming the perception of aging in the Czech Republic. Rather than being associated with financial struggles or inactivity, retirement is increasingly seen as a time of opportunity, engagement, and personal growth.

“This shift benefits not only retirees but society as a whole,” says Podlipný. “By planning ahead, people can ensure a fulfilling and financially secure retirement while contributing positively to their communities.”

As this new generation of seniors reshapes expectations for retirement in the Czech Republic, long-term financial planning and strategic wealth management are proving to be key factors in achieving financial freedom and leaving a meaningful legacy.

Author: Josef Podlipný, Partner and Head of Sales at Fichtner Wealth Managers

Bratislava’s older flats become more expensive as rents continue to rise

The prices of older flats in Bratislava increased by 8.8% in 2024, while rents have been rising for the third consecutive year, according to a report by Bencont Investments. The average unit price for second-hand apartments climbed to €3,821.67 per square meter, while the average rent, including utilities, rose by 9% to €17.02 per square meter.

Analysts highlight that Bratislava’s property prices are nearing their all-time high recorded in Q3 2022, when the average price reached €3,876.52 per square meter. Given the current upward trend, prices are expected to surpass this threshold in the coming months.

According to chief analyst Rudolf Bruchánik, prices increased across all districts except Staré Mesto, where a slight 0.8% price correction was recorded. While most segments saw price growth, new-build apartments experienced a 1.2% price decline. However, the overall average property price increased by 9.7% year-on-year, reaching €253,242 by the end of 2024.

Rental prices in Bratislava remained on an upward trajectory in the third quarter, with the average total rent, including utilities, reaching €1,051 per month by the end of 2024. The increase in rental prices was partly influenced by a reduction in the average size of rental properties, which shrank by 4% to 65 square meters.

Looking ahead, further price increases are expected, especially for second-hand apartments, which remain more affordable than new-builds. Higher VAT rates on new developments are also contributing to their structural price rise. Meanwhile, rents are set to climb further, as renting continues to be a key alternative for those unable to buy.

“We anticipate that prices of older flats will continue to rise, benefiting from their competitive advantage over new developments. Similarly, rental prices will likely follow an upward trend as they remain a crucial option for those seeking housing,” concluded Rudolf Bruchánik.

Source: Trend,sk

Slovak retail trade sees strong growth in 2024, achieves record December performance

Retail trade in Slovakia flourished in 2024, with turnover increasing consistently throughout the year. The growth rate accelerated significantly in the last quarter, reaching an impressive 10.1% year-on-year increase in December, marking the best monthly result of 2024.

For the full year, retail turnover rose by 4.5%, one of the strongest performances since 2013. The growth was driven by large hyper- and supermarkets, as well as e-commerce, which saw significant expansion.

The December surge was fueled by a 42% increase in online sales and a 6.6% rise in turnover at hypermarkets and supermarkets. Specialized stores also performed well, contributing to the sector’s overall growth.

However, not all segments benefited from the retail surge. Sales of fuels and cultural/recreational goods (such as books, sporting goods, and toys) declined year-on-year. Meanwhile, accommodation services (+14.6%), motor vehicle sales and repairs (+15.8%), and wholesale (+2.8%) also saw positive results in December.

On a month-on-month basis, seasonally adjusted turnover in retail trade rose by 8.2% compared to November, while accommodation services increased by 7.8%. However, wholesale trade (-1.7%) and motor vehicle sales and repairs (-1.5%) recorded slight declines.

Retail Performance in 2024: Strongest Growth in Over a Decade

Throughout 2024, six out of nine monitored retail segments recorded positive growth. The most significant contributors included:
• Hypermarkets and supermarkets: +4%, achieving the third-best result in 12 years
• E-commerce (mail-order sales): +25%, supported by an expansion in the number of online retailers
• Specialized stores for household goods, textiles, shoes, drugstores, and pharmacies: +4-6%
• Food, beverage, and tobacco retailers: +16.5%, marking a highly successful year

Challenges for Fuel, IT, and Cultural Goods Retailers

While most sectors performed well, fuel sales, IT and communication equipment stores, and bookstores, sporting goods, and toy retailers faced year-on-year declines.

Among other trade-related sectors, motor vehicle sales and repairs grew by 3%, and accommodation services saw a 4.5% annual increase. However, food and beverage service activities (-2.1%) and wholesale trade (-1.5%) recorded declines.

The strong performance of the retail sector in 2024, particularly in the second half of the year, signals a resilient consumer market. Continued growth in e-commerce and large-format retail stores is expected to shape trends in 2025, while challenges remain for specialized sectors affected by shifting consumer behavior.

Source: Statistical Office of the SR

Da Grasso moves headquarters to Green Horizon in Łódź

Da Grasso, Poland’s largest pizza franchise chain, has announced the relocation of its headquarters to the Green Horizon office complex in Łódź, marking a new chapter in the company’s expansion. The move to a 1,200 sqm office space aligns with Da Grasso’s commitment to modernization, innovation, and fostering a dynamic work environment.

The relocation reflects Da Grasso’s continued growth and strategic vision, as the company seeks a workspace that supports creativity and collaboration. Magdalena Piróg, President of the Management Board of Da Grasso, emphasized that the decision was driven by the need for a modern and functional office that meets the evolving challenges of the team. She noted that Green Horizon offers an inspiring environment, including plans for a dedicated “kitchen of inspiration” for employees, where new culinary ideas can be developed.

Located at Solidarity Roundabout and Pomorska Street, Green Horizon is one of Łódź’s most modern office buildings, offering 35,500 sqm of office space across six stories. The strategic location provides excellent public transport connections and proximity to Łódź Fabryczna station and major highways. Employees benefit from on-site amenities such as restaurants, a grocery store, a medical center, and child care facilities. The office complex also includes extensive parking and cycling facilities, ensuring easy accessibility.

Marcin Dondalski, Asset Management & Leasing Manager at Globalworth Poland, welcomed Da Grasso to the tenant community at Green Horizon, highlighting the building’s modern infrastructure, functional workspace, and state-of-the-art service facilities. He emphasized that the workspace design aligns with Globalworth’s mission to create comfortable and safe office environments that promote business growth.

Green Horizon is designed with sustainability in mind, featuring energy-efficient lighting, advanced air conditioning systems utilizing outside air cooling, and EV charging stations. The building holds prestigious LEED Gold, BREEAM In-Use v6 (Excellent level), and WELL Health & Safety 2022 certifications, ensuring high environmental and health standards. Additionally, it has been recognized as an accessible and inclusive workplace with the “Certificate of Object No Barriers”.

Anna Szurek, Senior Negotiator at Cushman & Wakefield, who facilitated the transaction, emphasized that Da Grasso’s move to Green Horizon underscores the office building’s quality and functionality. She noted that after years in its previous headquarters, the company’s relocation reflects its strategic growth plan and commitment to employee well-being.

With this move, Da Grasso continues to strengthen its position as a leader in the Polish food service industry, embracing a workspace that fosters innovation, collaboration, and long-term business success.

Czech industrial production drops 3.0% year-on-year in December, auto sector hit hardest

Industrial production in the Czech Republic fell by 3.0% year-on-year in December 2024, primarily due to a decline in automobile manufacturing and electrical equipment production, according to the Czech Statistical Office (CZSO). However, in a month-on-month comparison, industrial output increased by 1.6%, signaling short-term recovery trends.

Radek Matějka, Director of the Agricultural and Forestry, Industrial, Construction, and Energy Statistics Department at CZSO, attributed the annual decline to the high comparison base from 2023, particularly in the manufacture of motor vehicles, trailers, and semi-trailers. A slowdown in the manufacture of electrical components for the automotive industry further contributed to the negative trend. Meanwhile, the food and beverage sector continued its modest growth, and certain industries, such as repair and installation of machinery and production of non-metallic mineral products, benefited from fluctuations in output and end-of-year invoicing adjustments.

The value of new industrial orders remained flat in December 2024 compared to the previous year, with non-domestic orders rising by 0.5% while domestic orders declined by 1.0%. Month-on-month, the total value of new orders dropped slightly by 0.2%.

According to Veronika Doležalová, Head of the Industrial Statistics Unit at CZSO, the most significant year-on-year decline in new orders was observed in the automotive and electrical equipment manufacturing sectors. However, there was growth in orders for computer, electronic, and optical products, and partial long-term contracts were concluded in machinery and equipment manufacturing.

The average number of registered employees in the industrial sector decreased by 2.0% year-on-year, reflecting broader economic pressures on the manufacturing workforce.

According to Eurostat, industrial production across the EU27 decreased by 1.7% year-on-year in November 2024, with the largest declines recorded in Croatia (-6.6%) and Ireland (-5.6%). The Czech industrial sector contracted by 2.7% in November, while Germany saw a 3.3% decline. The hardest-hit industry across the EU27 was leather and related products (-12.9%), while other manufacturing recorded the highest growth at 7.8%.

Eurostat is set to release December 2024 industrial production data on February 13, 2025, providing further insights into regional manufacturing trends.

Source: Czech Statistical Office

Migration takes center stage in German election campaign amid economic and labor market concerns

Migration has emerged as a pivotal issue in Germany’s Bundestag election campaign, with far-reaching implications for the country’s economic future and labor market stability. The next federal government will need to balance integration policies while ensuring that Germany remains an attractive destination for foreign skilled workers to sustain its economy.

Germany faces a critical labor shortage, with businesses struggling to fill positions across various sectors. Experts argue that without an influx of at least 1.6 million foreign workers over the next four years, the country risks economic stagnation, business closures, and a failure to complete necessary industrial transformations. The challenge, therefore, is not only about preserving an open society but also about successfully integrating migrants and foreign specialists into the workforce.

Shifting Policies and Political Divisions

Over the past two years, Germany’s traffic-light coalition government has taken a fluctuating approach to migration and integration policies. While it has allocated additional funds for integration costs in 2022 and 2023, it has also proposed tighter immigration restrictions, increased deportations, and cuts to migration counseling and psychosocial support services.

On January 29, 2025, the Bundestag approved a migration policy tightening proposal known as the “Five-Point Plan,” backed by the CDU/CSU opposition and supported by the far-right AfD. The plan aims to further reduce illegal migration and strengthen internal security, despite data showing a decline in illegal entries. Critics argue that crime rates are more closely linked to socio-economic factors, such as poverty and lack of social inclusion, rather than migration status.

Political Stances on Migration and Integration

The debate over migration has taken a more extreme turn with the AfD calling for “remigration” policies, which would not only halt immigration but also force some residents to leave Germany—regardless of citizenship status. Meanwhile, CDU chancellor candidate Friedrich Merz has proposed revoking German citizenship in certain cases and rolling back the government’s recent citizenship reform, which accelerated naturalization and eased dual citizenship restrictions.

Despite these political shifts, economic data underscores the crucial role of migrants in Germany’s workforce. Without ongoing immigration, Germany’s working-age population would have already begun shrinking years ago. Over the past five years, more than 80% of employment growth has been driven by foreign workers, many of whom are entrepreneurs contributing to economic innovation. Since 2023, social security-contributing employment growth has been entirely sustained by foreign workers.

The Economic Reality: Migration as a Necessity

Germany’s record employment level of 46.1 million workers would not have been possible without inward migration from within and outside Europe. Many essential services, particularly in healthcare and elder care, rely on foreign labor, making migration a cornerstone of Germany’s economic sustainability.

As the Bundestag elections approach, migration policy will remain a defining issue, shaping Germany’s economic future, social cohesion, and international competitiveness. The debate now centers on whether Germany will embrace migration as an economic opportunity or adopt a more restrictive approach that could impact its long-term growth prospects.

Source:

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