Verdion secures additional €100 million for its Verdion European Logistics Fund 2

Verdion has secured an additional €100 million for its Verdion European Logistics Fund 2 (VELF 2), raising total closed capital for its second value-add fund to over €300 million.

This latest commitment, finalized at the end of 2024, follows a €150 million investment made in September by CBRE Investment Management, acting on behalf of its Indirect Private Real Estate Division. The initial closings of €75 million were sourced exclusively from investors in Verdion’s inaugural VELF 1 fund, launched in 2020. The fundraising process for VELF 2 is ongoing.

VELF 2 focuses on acquiring and repositioning under-capitalized and under-managed logistics assets in established markets across Northern Europe. Leveraging Verdion’s vertically integrated team and in-house technical expertise, the fund undertakes refurbishment and development projects aimed at transforming properties into high-performing, ESG-compliant assets.

Recent activity includes:
• A second acquisition and major pre-let to cosmetics distribution brand Sæther, near Helsingør, Denmark.
• Completion of a €33.5 million, DGNB Gold-certified distribution center in Horsens, Denmark, in mid-2023.

Further acquisitions are planned, with a strong pipeline focusing on Germany, alongside Sweden, Denmark, and the Netherlands.

Track Record of Success

Verdion’s first fund, VELF 1, closed in 2020 after raising €158 million. Together with debt financing, the fund invested over €300 million across 11 logistics assets in Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Czechia. Notable transactions include:
• The 2022 sale of a facility for UPS near Prague Airport.
• Ongoing disposals of assets in Germany and the Netherlands, expected to close in Q1 2025.

Simon Walter, Executive Director – Investment Management at Verdion, stated: “Securing this additional commitment is a clear endorsement of our strategy, particularly in a challenging capital-raising environment. Our focus on creating and repositioning market-leading assets, underpinned by technical innovation and strong ESG credentials, continues to resonate with investors from the US, Northern Europe, and Asia-Pacific.”

Verdion’s value-add strategy and robust pipeline underscore its leadership in the logistics real estate sector, positioning VELF 2 for continued growth and success across Northern Europe.

Colliers appoints Grzegorz Sielewicz to Lead Economic and Market Analysis for CEE

Colliers has announced the appointment of Grzegorz Sielewicz as Head of the Economic and Market Analysis Department for Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). His role will cover Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, and Romania.

Grzegorz brings two decades of expertise in economic research and market analysis, specializing in the commercial real estate sector across the CEE region. His work has focused on macroeconomic trends, sector insights, and market dynamics. At Colliers, Grzegorz will lead the development of the company’s research platform at both regional and local levels, offering clients forward-looking insights and analysis.

In his role, he will provide detailed evaluations of the effects of macroeconomic, political, and social developments on the real estate market. This approach aims to support Colliers’ clients in making informed, strategic decisions. Grzegorz will also collaborate with local market intelligence teams to ensure the delivery of timely and consistent data across the region.

“Grzegorz is a recognized expert in economics and risk assessment, with a wealth of publications and a reputation as a sought-after speaker at global events,” said Monika Rajska-Wolińska, CEO of Colliers for CEE. “His appointment is a strategic move to enhance our management team and operations in the region. With his expertise, we can offer our clients deeper insights into market trends and the factors shaping business strategies.”

Prior to joining Colliers, Grzegorz served as Chief Economist for CEE at Coface, a global leader in credit insurance. His career also includes positions as Chief Specialist in the International Capital Markets Department at the Ministry of Finance and roles at Deutsche Bank and UniCredit Brokerage House.

“As an analyst, I am deeply committed to exploring all facets of the real estate market and understanding the factors driving or hindering its development,” said Grzegorz Sielewicz. “I look forward to working with the regional Colliers team to provide clients with thorough, actionable insights that empower them to make the best decisions for their businesses.”

This appointment underscores Colliers’ commitment to delivering market-leading intelligence, ensuring clients across the CEE region benefit from expert guidance in navigating the complexities of the real estate industry.

Leading distributor renews lease at MLP Bucharest West

MLP Group has extended its partnership with one of Romania’s largest distribution networks at the MLP Bucharest West logistics center. The tenant has renewed its lease for 10,400 sqm of warehouse space and will gain access to 330 sqm of newly constructed, modern office space tailored to meet their growing operational needs. The transaction was facilitated by real estate consultancy firm Colliers.

“Providing modern, functional spaces that cater to our tenants’ specific requirements is our top priority. Every lease extension reaffirms our commitment to meeting our clients’ expectations. By investing in innovative solutions and focusing on practicality, we build long-term relationships based on trust and satisfaction,” said Olga Melihov, Chief Country Officer Romania at MLP Group S.A.

Dan Dragomirescu, Senior Associate at Colliers Romania, added: “We are thrilled to have identified the ideal solution for our client at MLP Bucharest West. Its accessibility, robust service ecosystem, and adherence to high environmental standards make it a perfect match. This transaction reflects the strength of our collaboration and the trust placed in us to support our client’s growth.”

Located in the Chitila district, the MLP Bucharest West logistics park is a Class A industrial project in one of Romania’s prime warehouse regions. Positioned along Bucharest’s north-western bypass, the site offers excellent conditions for logistics and distribution operations. The park spans 18.3 hectares and will eventually provide 99,000 sqm of warehouse space, complemented by superior road infrastructure and amenities.

The facilities meet high environmental standards and are undergoing BREEAM certification. In line with its build & hold strategy, MLP Group retains ownership of completed logistics parks, ensuring ongoing management and support for tenants.

MLP Group’s focus on strategic locations, tailored solutions, and tenant satisfaction continues to set it apart as a trusted partner in the logistics and industrial real estate market.

Genesis Property names Flavia Schoech as Chief Operating Officer

Genesis Property has appointed Flavia Schoech as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO). With over three decades of experience in the financial and hospitality sectors, Schoech brings a wealth of expertise to support Genesis Property’s mission of creating workspaces and communities that align with modern lifestyle and professional needs.

Previously, Schoech served as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Continental Hotels for more than 12 years, where she played a pivotal role in expanding and consolidating the company’s operations across Romania.

At Genesis Property, Schoech will focus on shaping and executing the company’s operational strategy, with a particular emphasis on accelerating growth, optimizing efficiency, and integrating ESG principles. Her responsibilities include translating the strategic vision into actionable plans, coordinating processes and resources, and ensuring the company achieves its ambitious goals.

“Taking on this new role at Genesis Property feels like solving a complex 3D puzzle, where every piece contributes to a larger, innovative vision,” said Flavia Schoech. “I am excited to integrate into the entrepreneurial spirit here and confident in our ability to redefine creativity in an industry often seen as rigid. The future holds limitless possibilities, and I’m thrilled to be part of this journey.”

One of Genesis Property’s key long-term projects is YUNITY Park, a transformative campus reimagining the office experience, spearheaded by the company’s founder, Liviu Tudor. YUNITY Park blends modern workspaces with lifestyle features, including an open-air amphitheater with 1,500 seats, 2 kilometers of walking paths, cascading water mirrors, an urban forest, and innovative meeting areas. The second phase of the project, completed in 2023 with an investment of over €20 million, reflects the company’s commitment to creating cutting-edge work environments.

Schoech’s appointment underscores Genesis Property’s dedication to fostering innovation and sustainability in its operations, ensuring a progressive approach to real estate and workplace development.

Logivest facilitates 20,000 sqm lease for fulfilment provider in Bochum

Logivest successfully brokered the lease of a 20,000 square metre logistics property in Bochum for DAZ Lager & Logistik GmbH. The property, located at Karl-Lange-Straße 49, is owned by Boreal Im Ltd.

DAZ sought a centrally located facility in the Ruhr area to support its services, primarily aiding Chinese companies in global market expansion. Logivest secured two units within a modern logistics hall near the A40 motorway, complete with mezzanine and office space.

The state-of-the-art property, just a few years old, features ramps, ground-level gates, and a modern pick tower, which is included in the lease.

“This deal ensured a seamless follow-on lease for the owner and provided DAZ with a long-term solution—an ideal outcome for all parties,” said Kresimir Basic, Head of Industrial and Logistics at Logivest NRW GmbH.

DAZ Lager & Logistik GmbH has already taken occupancy of the space.

Union Investment secures letting success at Hamburg’s Ericus-Contor

The Catalan food manufacturer GB Foods, known in Germany for its ERASCO, HEISSE TASSE, and LACROIX brands, has leased approximately 1,100 sqm of office space in Hamburg’s Ericus-Contor. Part of the UniImmo: Deutschland portfolio since 2020, the property will house GB Foods’ German subsidiary under a ten-year lease starting mid-2025. The space is currently being tailored to the tenant’s needs, with the company’s headquarters and production site located in Lübeck.

“Since acquiring the Ericus-Contor in 2020, we have successfully let or extended nearly all of its 16,000 sqm of space. Negotiations for the last two vacant units are well underway, and we expect the building to be fully let soon,” said Sven Lintl, Head of Asset Management Germany at Union Investment.

Built in 2012, the Ericus-Contor at Ericusspitze 2-4 is a landmark office building with a striking spire and a double-skin glass façade featuring floor-to-ceiling windows. Its prime location along the Elbe connects HafenCity’s eastern gateway to the city center and the historic Speicherstadt warehouse district.

The property boasts excellent transport links, with Hamburg Central Station just 900 meters away and quick access to the motorway via Amsinckstraße. The Ericus-Contor also meets high sustainability standards, holding a DGNB platinum certification, Germany’s top sustainability award.

The lease transaction was facilitated by BNP Paribas Real Estate.

Pardubice to sell former Masaryk Barracks in smaller parcels for development

The city of Pardubice is set to sell the former Masaryk Barracks site, spanning approximately 10 hectares, to multiple investors rather than a single buyer. Mayor Jan Nadrchal (ANO) explained that the size of the site has made a single-developer sale unfeasible, despite its value and potential for residential development.

“While the land is valuable, it is too large for one developer to take on. The idea of securing a single buyer willing to pay a substantial sum has proven unrealistic,” said Nadrchal.

Developers were reluctant to commit to such a large-scale project due to the long-term investment required. The development of the entire site could take a decade, coupled with the cost of redeveloping old military buildings. Additionally, the local market can only absorb about 200 apartments annually, making it impractical to construct and sell 500–600 units at once.

In contrast, the city’s 2018 sale of the smaller 2.5-hectare Tesla site resulted in a single developer building housing for approximately 750 residents, a more manageable scale.

To address these challenges, the city plans to prepare a new land use study and sell the Masaryk Barracks site in smaller sections. “The city could also retain portions of the site for parking or build municipal apartments, which are in short supply,” Nadrchal added.

The city’s plans also include constructing a primary school for 540 students on the site. This year, eight old buildings will be demolished at an estimated cost of CZK 110 million, with school construction to follow. While state subsidies for the school have not materialized, the city is considering a loan to fund the project. “This is one case where councillors agree a loan is justified,” Nadrchal stated.

Built between 1922 and 1927, the barracks served as the base for a railway regiment. The site has been abandoned since 2011, with portions used as a parking lot since 2019. Most of the land belongs to the city, except for a smaller section owned by the state, where plans for a new employment office have faced repeated delays.

The city aims to transform the barracks into a vibrant mixed-use area, balancing residential development with public infrastructure to meet local needs.

Source: CTK
Photo: ods.cz

Indotek Group sells Bokserska Office Center in Warsaw

Indotek Group has finalized the sale of the Bokserska Office Center, an office complex in Warsaw. The buyer is Enter Air, a Polish charter airline, which plans to move its headquarters to the property.

The Bokserska Office Center, located in the Mokotów district, is a modern office complex with a strong track record of tenant satisfaction and operational excellence. Its strategic location near major transportation hubs, including Warsaw Chopin Airport and key arterial roads, has made it a prime choice for companies seeking high-quality office space in the Polish capital.

Indotek Group acquired the property as part of its expansion strategy in Central and Eastern Europe, focusing on identifying assets with strong growth potential. Following successful management and enhancement initiatives, the Bokserska Office Center became a standout property in the region’s office market.

“The sale of the Bokserska Office Center is a testament to our strategic approach to investment and asset management,” said a representative from Indotek Group. “This transaction reflects the success of our efforts to add value to the property and align it with the needs of today’s tenants.”

The buyer of the office complex has not been disclosed, but the transaction underscores the continued demand for high-quality office assets in Warsaw, particularly in well-connected districts like Mokotów.

Selcuk Polat appointed Head of Private Capital at Art-Invest Real Estate

Selcuk Polat, previously Managing Director Real Estate at UniCredit Bank AG’s North Rhine-Westphalia branch, has taken on the role of Head of Private Capital at Art-Invest Real Estate Funds. In this position, Polat will lead the development of the firm’s business with family offices and high-net-worth individuals.

Art-Invest Real Estate, known for its “manage to core” investment strategy, has established over 25 investment funds for institutional clients, including pension funds and foundations. The company currently manages real estate assets valued at approximately €12.5 billion, working with institutional investors, joint venture partners, and its own capital.

“Over 12 years of supporting projects on the financing side, I have observed Art-Invest Real Estate’s professionalism, risk awareness, and expertise in creating value. These qualities position us as a sustainable and trustworthy partner for family offices seeking long-term real estate investments,” Polat stated.

Jan Dührkoop, Managing Partner of Art-Invest Real Estate Funds, emphasized the firm’s commitment to tailored investor support, adding, “Expanding our offerings to family offices presents significant opportunities, leveraging our market presence and expertise.”

Kurt Zech, CEO of the Zech Group and a member of the supervisory board of Art-Invest Real Estate Funds, remarked, “I have known and respected Selcuk Polat for many years. His addition strengthens our ability to provide specialized services to family offices within Art-Invest Real Estate and the wider Zech Group.”

Polat’s leadership aims to enhance Art-Invest Real Estate’s position as a trusted partner for private capital investment in real estate.

Genesis Hospitality Partners: Transforming hospitality investments under Josef Filser

Genesis Hospitality Partners officially commenced operations at the start of the year, introducing a fresh, independent approach to investment and asset management in the hospitality property sector. With a focus on developing, optimizing, and enhancing the value of hotel properties, the company aims to deliver sustainable and measurable returns for investors and property owners alike.

The firm is helmed by its founder and Managing Director, Josef Filser, a seasoned and internationally recognized expert with over 13 years of experience in the hotel and real estate industry. Before founding Genesis Hospitality Partners, Filser held senior roles at leading global real estate firms, including JLL in London and Munich. Most recently, he served as Head of Hospitality for Germany and Austria at Cushman & Wakefield, where he oversaw transactions and advisory processes in the hospitality sector. Over the course of his career, Filser has facilitated the acquisition and sale of portfolios and individual properties valued at more than €1 billion. He holds an MBA in International Real Estate from the University of Regensburg (IREBS) and a BSc from the EHL Hospitality Business School.

Headquartered in Munich, Genesis Hospitality Partners focuses on existing properties with untapped potential, such as those with short remaining lease terms, over-rented spaces, or vacant possession. Operating across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, the company engages with all hospitality asset classes, including hotels, resorts, serviced apartments, and hostels. Additionally, it evaluates mixed-use properties combining residential and commercial elements.

“The market is at the dawn of a new cycle,” said Josef Filser. “This is an ideal time to invest in hospitality properties. Current conditions—competitive pricing and a favorable financing environment—make this asset class, alongside residential property, exceptionally appealing for investors.”

Genesis Hospitality Partners offers end-to-end services spanning the entire investment lifecycle. Its offerings include investment advisory services with comprehensive commercial due diligence and asset management tailored to operational needs. Additionally, the firm engages in co-investments, partnering with clients on meticulously selected projects. This co-investment approach not only aligns Genesis Hospitality Partners with its clients’ goals but also demonstrates the firm’s confidence in the success of its ventures by sharing the associated risks.

With a combination of deep industry expertise, innovative strategies, and a commitment to shared success, Genesis Hospitality Partners is poised to make a significant impact in the hospitality property market.

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