Poland aims to craft EU-wide AI strategy during Its presidency

Poland is set to push for the creation of a unified European strategy for artificial intelligence (AI) during its upcoming presidency of the European Union, Deputy Minister of Digital Affairs Dariusz Standerski announced yesterday. The Polish government is also expected to introduce a domestic bill on AI within the week, further solidifying its stance on the digital sector.

“Poland’s position in the digital landscape is clear: we are not seeking new legal frameworks. What we need is a comprehensive AI strategy. There is currently no coherent digital law across the EU,” Standerski said at the Banking & Insurance Forum in Warsaw.

He emphasized Poland’s goal to bring forth specific strategic policies and investment proposals during its EU presidency. The priority, he said, is to achieve consensus on common AI procedures across member states. “The biggest success of our presidency will be if we can establish a unified approach to AI within the EU,” Standerski added.

Standerski noted that the lack of a coordinated European strategy is hindering the development of AI, as each member state currently has its own regulations and investment plans. “There’s no European coordination that could expand our opportunities for collaboration,” he said, calling for stronger cooperation across the bloc.

This week, Poland is set to unveil a new bill on AI, which will be open for consultation. The Deputy Minister also announced a broader debate on financing the digital sector, which has so far been largely dependent on the telecommunications industry. “We need to discuss whether mid-sized cities in Poland can host computational centers, which are essential for AI development,” Standerski said.

He identified three key challenges for Poland’s digital transformation: education, workforce development, and energy infrastructure. The first challenge, education, will be addressed through new training programs as part of Poland’s National Reconstruction Plan (KPO). The second challenge is increasing the share of ICT sector employees, where Poland currently lags behind other EU countries. Solutions, according to Standerski, include better education and a more effective migration policy to attract skilled workers. Lastly, he highlighted the energy demands of AI technologies, stressing the need for robust infrastructure to prevent power shortages as AI adoption grows.

“We need digital skills, a capable workforce, and the right infrastructure to support widespread AI use without risking blackouts,” Standerski concluded.

Last week, Standerski confirmed that the Ministry of Digital Affairs would soon release the first draft law on AI, which will focus on its application in critical areas such as healthcare, justice, and transport.

Source: ISBnews
Photo: Deputy Minister of Digital Affairs Dariusz Standerski

Prague bans pub crawls in response to night noise complaints

The Prague City Council has officially banned pub crawls—nightly, agency-organized tours that take tourists from pub to pub. The decision, which was approved today by city councillors, is set to take effect immediately following its publication in the legislative bulletin. The ban, driven by complaints from Prague 1, aims to reduce nighttime disturbances caused by loud, intoxicated tourists.

Prague 1, the district most affected by noisy nightlife, had long pushed for stronger action. According to Deputy Mayor Zdeněk Hřib (Pirates), the regulation was formulated in collaboration with local tourism authorities, including Prague City Tourism, and traditional tour guides, who can continue their activities between 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM. Another Deputy Mayor, Jiří Pospíšil (TOP 09), noted that guides had no objections to the ban on pub crawls.

The new measure amends Prague’s market regulations, specifically targeting the “errand provision of services,” which includes pub crawls, while exempting guided tours during the daytime. City officials argue that pub crawls contribute to noise, litter, and security issues, straining the city’s resources. “Excessive deployment of municipal services, including cleaning crews and police, puts a burden on the city budget and personnel,” states the proposal’s explanatory report. Officials also raised concerns about Prague’s image, suggesting that groups of drunken tourists harm the city’s reputation and deter both visitors and investors.

However, not everyone agrees with the ban. Prague Pub Crawl, one of the agencies impacted, criticized the move as “populist” and ineffective at addressing the core issues of night noise. “Our clients are instructed to respect quiet hours after 10:00 PM, and any rule breakers are excluded from the tour,” said a spokesperson. The company further argued that the real problem occurs after midnight on streets like Dlouhá, where crowds gather outside clubs, often until the early morning. They believe the ban will worsen the situation, as tourists will still seek out nightlife, but without the structure and supervision of organized tours.

Another agency, Drunken Monkey, echoed similar concerns. “It’s the unguided groups that cause the most noise,” said the company in a statement, suggesting that the ban will backfire by removing trained guides who help maintain order. Since starting operations in 2011, Drunken Monkey claims it has not received any complaints for noise violations.

In contrast, Prague 1’s leadership welcomed the new regulation. “This updated market order is a powerful tool to maintain order and minimize the negative effects of street noise on residents and visitors,” said Terezie Radoměřská (TOP 09), Mayor of Prague 1.

Prague has long struggled with “alcotourism,” where young foreign visitors come to the city for cheap alcohol. The city’s broader issue of overtourism is also a concern, with last year’s figures showing 7.4 million tourists staying in hotels, a 25% year-on-year increase, according to the Czech Statistical Office.

While the ban has sparked debate, the city hopes it will lead to quieter nights in Prague’s historic center, improving the quality of life for both locals and tourists alike.

Source: CTK

Lucia Barmošová to co-host this year’s CIJ Awards Slovakia 2024!

CIJ EUROPE is pleased to announce that Lucia Barmošová will be co-hosting this year’s CIJ Awards Slovakia 2024

Lucia Barmošová is a prominent Slovak television presenter and journalist, best known for her work with TV JOJ. She has become a well-recognized face on Slovak television, particularly for anchoring the news program Noviny TV JOJ. With a background in journalism, Lucia is admired for her professionalism, engaging presentation style, and commitment to delivering reliable news to the public. Over the years, she has earned a reputation as one of Slovakia’s leading news personalities.

“I am honored to co-host this year’s CIJ Awards Slovakia 2024 with Lucia Barmošová, at an event that continues to highlight the incredible talent and innovation within the Slovak real estate sector,” said Robert Fletcher, CEO/CEO/Editor-in-Chief of CIJ Europe.

The CIJ Awards Slovakia 2024, the premier event honoring excellence in real estate development, is set to take place this year on the 20th November at the Radisson BLU Carlton Hotel, Bratislava, bringing together the most influential players in the Slovak property market. As the most anticipated industry event of the year, the CIJ Awards continue to recognize and celebrate outstanding achievements in real estate, development, and property management across Slovakia.

Now in its 20th year, the CIJ Awards Slovakia is organized by CIJ Europe, the leading real estate news and event platform in Central and Eastern Europe. The awards have become a benchmark for excellence, with a reputation for highlighting the highest standards of quality, innovation, and leadership in the real estate sector.

For more information about the CIJ Awards Slovakia 2024, including details on how to enter, sponsorship opportunities, and event registration, please visit the official CIJ Awards website on the link below:

Record year for retail parks: 22 new openings in Poland, supply set to exceed 400,000 sqm in 2024

Poland’s retail park sector is on track for a record-breaking year, with 22 new retail parks launched in the first half of 2024, according to a report by JLL and Trei Real Estate Poland. By the end of June, these new developments added 365,300 square meters (GLA) to the market, and the total new retail park space is projected to surpass 400,000 sqm by the end of 2024.

The “Retail Parks and Convenience Centres in Poland” report highlights that the total retail space in Poland reached 17.3 million sqm by mid-2024, with retail parks accounting for 17% and convenience centres for 9%. From 2018 to mid-2024, these formats contributed to 59% of all new retail space, a trend expected to continue.

Retail parks are becoming particularly popular in smaller towns, with many new developments adhering to sustainable practices based on ESG strategies. The growing appeal of retail parks has been driven by their alignment with local market needs and their relatively low development costs.

“This year, the supply of retail park space will break records, surpassing 400,000 sqm GLA,” said JLL’s Research & Consultancy Director Maciej Kotowski. He noted that since 2020, more than 1.5 million sqm of retail park space has been delivered in Poland, with Trei Real Estate being one of the most active investors. The firm has developed approximately 123,000 sqm across 24 Vendo Park locations.

Retail parks are not just expanding in small towns but are also filling gaps in suburban areas of Poland’s largest cities. “In cities with populations of 50,000 or less, there is currently more retail park space (1.4 million sqm) than in cities with 100,000 to 500,000 residents (0.9 million sqm),” Kotowski said. “In large urban agglomerations, the rise of suburbanization has left gaps in the commercial offer, which retail parks are now stepping in to fill.”

Jacek Wesołowski, Managing Director of Trei Real Estate Poland, highlighted the availability of attractive land in smaller towns as a key factor behind the rapid growth of retail parks. “There are around 1,400 administrative units in Poland with limited or no modern commercial offering, including 600 small and medium-sized cities. This presents huge potential for retail development,” he added.

The report also identified significant demand in towns with populations of 5,000 to 15,000, which are home to more than 3 million people. “These figures indicate the vast potential for growth in retail parks and convenience centres,” the report said.

In terms of tenants, value retailers like Pepco, Action, TEDi, and Dealz dominate retail park space, accounting for 32% of the leasing area in parks built between 2019 and 2023. Food retailers take up 16%, followed by electronics stores (12%) and health and beauty outlets (7%). Fashion brands are also increasing their presence, now occupying 10% of retail park space, and several prominent shopping centre brands such as Sphinx, Starbucks, and Apart have recently opened their first outlets in retail parks.

Dagmara Filipiak, Senior Director of the Retail Agency at JLL, said retail parks are becoming increasingly attractive for new business ventures. “By the end of next year, the total area of this format will grow by at least another 500,000 sqm,” she noted, adding that the concept of 15-minute cities is gaining ground in large urban areas, where retail parks will play a key role.

“Retail parks will evolve into community hubs offering much more than basic shopping needs. Fitness clubs, restaurants, medical centres, and playgrounds will be part of the mix, making these parks vital community spaces,” Filipiak concluded.

Rental rates in retail parks range from €8 to €20 per sqm per month, while rates in large Warsaw shopping centres reach as high as €135 per sqm, with regional rates between €45 and €65 per sqm.

Photo: Vendo Park Kobylka, Trei Real Estate Poland

Panattoni begins construction of 8,800 sqm BTS centre in Żary for Valmet Automotive

Panattoni has officially commenced construction of a new built-to-suit (BTS) centre in Żary, designed for Valmet Automotive. The project aims to expand the existing production facility by an additional 8,800 square meters, with construction work kicking off in September 2024.

Valmet Automotive is recognized as a leading supplier of comprehensive roofing systems for convertible cars, as well as mechanical systems for the automotive industry, including active spoilers and flaps for electric vehicle charging sockets.

Remigiusz Grześkowiak, Senior Vice President at Valmet Automotive, commented on the expansion, stating, “At our factory in Żary, we manufacture cutting-edge aerodynamic systems developed at our Research Centre in Osnabrück, Germany. These systems are crucial for extending the range of electric vehicles and reducing fuel consumption in petrol engines. Our past successes and the growing demand for such solutions have prompted our decision to construct a new manufacturing and logistics centre, complete with social and administrative amenities, allowing us to significantly increase our production capacity.”

Marek Foryński, BTS Managing Director at Panattoni, expressed pride in supporting Valmet Automotive’s growth, noting, “This investment will not only enhance the company’s manufacturing capabilities but also boost employment in the region.” The expansion, slated for completion in the spring of 2025, is expected to create approximately 350 new jobs. Manufacturing equipment installation is set for the first quarter of 2025, with production anticipated to begin in the fourth quarter of the same year.

Maciej Zawada, BTS Development Director at Panattoni, highlighted the building’s design flexibility, stating, “The new facility will provide a production area that can be easily adapted to meet the changing needs of its future tenants.” He also noted the logistical challenges, as construction must be coordinated to minimize disruption to ongoing manufacturing operations at the site.

The new development is committed to high ecological standards and will undergo BREEAM certification. Sustainable features will include heat pumps and solar panel installations, as well as a new access road to the factory and additional parking spaces.

Auchan Mikołów Shopping Centre undergoes modernisation to enhance customer experience

Nhood Services Poland has initiated a comprehensive renovation of the Auchan Mikołów Shopping Centre, located in the Silesian region. The project, which began on September 18, 2024, aims to modernise the facility’s interior, offering customers updated arcades with spaces for relaxation, improved energy efficiency, and a fresh new look.

As part of the renovation, key installations will be replaced to reduce energy and water consumption, while the centre’s toilets and entrances will also be refurbished. Once completed, Auchan Mikołów will become the latest Nhood Services Poland facility to receive the Oshopping quality mark, highlighting its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

For over two decades, Auchan Mikołów has been a well-established shopping destination in Silesia, earning the trust of both its tenants and customers. The renovation reflects Nhood’s continued dedication to enhancing the shopping experience. Aleksandra Dubrawska, Director of Property Management at Nhood Services Poland, noted, “Auchan Mikołów has maintained strong customer loyalty and consistent footfall. With a retail park being developed nearby, we saw this as an opportunity to undertake a major renovation that will transform the centre into a modern, recognisable shopping destination in the region, while also upholding sustainable development principles.”

Interior Transformation

The renovation includes an overhaul of the arcades, with new floors, wall coverings, and ceilings. LED lighting will be installed, not only enhancing the aesthetics but also contributing to energy savings. According to Jacek Bendyk, Technical Leader at Nhood Services Poland, “In addition to the visual upgrades, all facility installations will be replaced to improve safety and significantly reduce energy consumption.”

The interior design will feature materials in bright, modern colours, while natural greenery will be integrated into the décor. Shoppers will also enjoy comfortable seating islands placed throughout the centre, providing spaces for relaxation. The entrances will undergo a redesign to further improve the overall look and feel of the centre.

Visual Identity Refresh

In addition to the physical upgrades, Auchan Mikołów Shopping Centre will receive a new visual identity and signage system within the shopping arcades. Following the renovation, it will be the 10th Nhood Services Poland facility to earn the prestigious Oshopping quality mark, recognising its wide range of commercial offerings, modern technologies, and family-friendly atmosphere.

With the refurbishment, Nhood Services Poland aims to enhance the shopping experience for both tenants and visitors while ensuring the centre remains a vibrant, sustainable, and forward-thinking retail destination in Silesia.

Germany’s second future financing act to boost renewable energy investments in real estate

The German fund industry and private investors could soon see new opportunities in renewable energy investments, thanks to a proposed bill from the Federal Ministry of Finance. The draft of the Second Law on the Financing of Future-Securing Investments (ZuFinG II) aims to remove regulatory hurdles and open up fresh possibilities for real estate and renewable energy investments. If passed, the legislation would significantly reshape how investments in renewable energy projects, particularly through real estate funds, are structured and taxed.

The new draft bill aligns with Germany’s broader goals for the energy transition and renewable energy integration, specifically in the real estate sector. Camille Dufieux, Managing Director of INTREAL, commented on the practical implications, stating: “The operation of real estate and renewable energy facilities are naturally connected. Large roof spaces on logistics warehouses, retail centers, and residential buildings are ideal for installing photovoltaic systems. However, regulatory and tax obstacles have previously hindered these types of investments. The draft bill will offer new pathways for renewable energy to become a more serious investment option, supporting the energy transition.”

The proposed legislation seeks to address the current limitations in Germany’s Capital Investment Act (KAGB) and Investment Tax Act (InvStG), which have traditionally restricted direct investments in renewable energy by real estate funds. By revising these laws, the bill would permit real estate special funds to manage assets used for renewable energy generation, storage, and transportation.

Michael Schneider, Managing Director at INTREAL, described the move as a “paradigmatic shift” for the industry. “Expanding both the KAGB and InvStG to include renewable energy investments is a long-awaited development, supported by many in the fund industry and by the BVI Federal Association for Investment and Asset Management,” said Schneider.

Key Changes and Tax Implications

A central component of the draft bill is the integration of tax and regulatory frameworks, which will allow investment funds to own up to 100% of companies that manage renewable energy projects. This includes direct ownership of renewable energy assets. Currently, funds are limited in the revenue they can earn from active entrepreneurial management—capped at 5% of a fund’s total annual income under Article 26 of the InvStG. Exceeding this cap jeopardizes a fund’s institutional status.

Under the new legislation, earnings from managing renewable energy projects would be exempt from this limit, allowing them to contribute more substantially to a fund’s income without risking institutional fund status. Importantly, even if these earnings stem from equity investments in renewable energy companies, they will still qualify. However, all such income would become subject to corporate income tax.

While the tax liabilities may seem like a downside, Dufieux views the changes positively. “Despite the corporate tax implications, these new regulations represent a step forward for the fund industry. They offer greater flexibility in renewable energy investments while ensuring the legal framework is consistent and supportive,” she summarized.

A Boost for Germany’s Energy Transition

The ZuFinG II draft bill, if passed, will not only facilitate new investment opportunities but also contribute meaningfully to Germany’s push for renewable energy and climate-friendly solutions. By making it easier for funds to invest in energy-efficient properties equipped with renewable energy systems, such as photovoltaic panels on commercial real estate, the law would help integrate green energy solutions into the country’s growing real estate and infrastructure sectors.

The draft is expected to undergo further discussions before it potentially becomes law, but experts are optimistic that its implementation will be a key driver in modernizing both Germany’s financial markets and its renewable energy landscape.

GARBE PARK České Budějovice to feature first supermarket in industrial park

In a first for the region, GARBE PARK České Budějovice will soon house a supermarket within its industrial complex. The new retail space, operated by an international food chain, is set to open in the second quarter of 2025, catering to both employees of the park and local residents. The development, brokered by CBRE, also includes smaller retail units available for stores in sectors such as drugstores, electronics, or pet supplies.

The supermarket will join existing tenants like HAUSER, Taconova, and NOBO Automotive in the park. “We aim for the new supermarket to serve not only the employees working here but also the residents of Boršov nad Vltavou and surrounding villages,” said Veronika Zacha, Head of Business Development CZ. “This marks a new chapter, dispelling the notion that industrial parks are exclusively for logistics and automotive companies.”

Martin Polák, Director for Eastern and Central Europe at GARBE, added, “This is the first retail facility we’ve integrated into one of our industrial parks. It’s a unique example of how a supermarket can thrive within an industrial zone and serve the broader community. None of the major players in industrial development have attempted something like this before, and we are already in talks with additional retailers about joining the park.”

The development will also see the construction of a new bus stop within the industrial zone, with the České Budějovice Transport Company expected to begin service in mid-2025.

Jan Janáček, Head of the Retail Sector and Retail Leasing Team at CBRE, who facilitated the lease, highlighted the significance of integrating retail into industrial spaces. “This project represents a smart and logical development for the retail market. The synergy between the industrial park and the new supermarket creates a valuable connection for both businesses and the community.”

GARBE Park, located just 2 km from the future D3 motorway connecting Prague, Tábor, and České Budějovice to the Czech-Austrian border, boasts excellent transport accessibility. Its proximity to the České Budějovice airport also adds to its strategic advantage. The project places a strong emphasis on sustainability, energy savings, and low operating costs, aligning with modern development priorities.

Union Investment commits EUR 60 million to transform Meister Areal in Nuremberg

Union Investment is investing EUR 60 million in the transformation of the Meister Areal on Virnsberger Strasse, Nuremberg, into a cutting-edge city logistics hub. The former 100,000 sqm retail park will be repurposed into a modern logistics and commercial center, featuring 20,500 sqm of logistics space and 15,330 sqm of commercial space. This redevelopment will also include a new local supply center anchored by EDEKA, following a long-term lease agreement with the German supermarket chain.

The project, which is located in a highly desirable and well-connected area in Nuremberg’s western district, marks a major redevelopment effort. It is financed through Union Investment’s open-ended real estate fund, UniInstitutional German Real Estate. The building application has already been submitted to the city’s authorities, with approval anticipated in the first quarter of 2025.

“After two years of intensive planning, we are excited to launch a sustainable and future-oriented concept for this prime location,” said Sven Lintl, Head of Asset Management Germany at Union Investment. “The new Meister Areal will meet the high and sustained demand for logistics space in the Nuremberg region.”

A key focus of the project is its commitment to sustainability. The transformation will see the creation of an almost energy self-sufficient site, with renewable energy powering the logistics hub. “Our goal is to develop a site that is nearly 100% independent of fossil fuels,” explained Matthias Wagner, Senior Business Expert for Logistics at Union Investment. The project will utilize air heat pumps for heating, while a high-performance 3 MWp photovoltaic system will be integrated into a green roof to promote biodiversity. The façade will also feature partial greening, while additional measures, such as hedge and tree planting and the creation of a habitat for lizards, are planned to enhance species protection.

The redevelopment will take place in four phases. Demolition of the existing buildings, including the former Real supermarket and a drinks store covering 20,000 sqm, began in October. The phased completion of the project is scheduled for 2026 and 2027.

The transformation of Meister Areal into a city logistics hub is a significant step in addressing the growing demand for climate-friendly logistics and commercial solutions in Nuremberg’s regional center.

Budimex expects stable growth in 2025, secure margins with expanding order book

Budimex, one of Poland’s leading construction companies, is optimistic about revenue growth in 2025, expecting stable margins supported by a robust order book. CEO Artur Popko, revealed the company’s plans to expand its backlog, including potential involvement in the construction of Poland’s first nuclear power plant.

“Our revenues this year will mirror the general trends in construction and assembly production across the country. We expect a slight decline by the end of the year,” Popko explained. “However, we foresee a rebound next year, with stable growth of 6-7% annually in the coming years, just as we’ve experienced in the past.”

Budimex’s current project portfolio, valued at over PLN 15.3 billion as of June, provides the company with a solid foundation. “This portfolio guarantees us work through 2025-2026, and for the first time in our history, we also have long-term contracts extending up to eight years. These contracts represent more than 25% of our backlog and ensure strong prospects for 2026-2027,” Popko noted. He emphasized that these contracts are secured at current market prices and benefit from a valorization process, which should help maintain stable margins similar to previous years.

Budimex is also positioned to take advantage of new investments in Poland, with Popko predicting the company could capture around 15% of the market share for upcoming projects. “We’re confident that future contracts will be signed with margins consistent with what we’ve achieved historically,” he added.

One of the most significant opportunities on the horizon for Budimex is its potential involvement in the construction of Poland’s first nuclear power plant. The company is currently in talks with both Westinghouse and Bechtel, key players in the nuclear project. Budimex’s subsidiary, Mostostal Kraków, has been shortlisted for cooperation with Westinghouse. “We are keen to provide the necessary expertise and resources for this massive project,” said Popko, adding that discussions with Bechtel are ongoing, particularly regarding quality standards and workforce capacity.

Budimex is not only targeting the nuclear plant’s construction but also the associated infrastructure, including railway and road connections and port works. “We are closely analyzing the tender processes from Polish Nuclear Power Plants and are particularly interested in preparatory work. Additionally, we are exploring opportunities for road construction projects that will connect the plant with the Tri-City,” Popko explained.

Budimex estimates that it could secure at least 15% of the available work related to the nuclear power plant, a project valued at around $17 billion. “Given our track record and efficiency in securing contracts, we expect that Budimex and Mostostal Kraków will be responsible for at least 15% of the investment,” Popko concluded.

Budimex, listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange since 1995 and a member of the WIG20 index, is backed by its strategic investor, the Spanish company Ferrovial. In 2023, the company reported consolidated revenues of PLN 9.8 billion.

Source: Budimex and ISBnews

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