Leroy Merlin opens 11,000 sqm store in new Mall Moldova

Leroy Merlin, a retailer specializing in construction, decoration and gardening, will inaugurate its second store in Iași this year, in the new Mall Moldova shopping center, after leasing approximately 11,000 sqm within the project developed by Prime Kapital. The project owner was assisted in completing the rental transaction by real estate consultancy Cushman & Wakefield Echinox.

The new Leroy Merlin retail unit in Iași will be inaugurated in the first half of 2025, once the expansion and redevelopment phase of the former Era Shopping Park shopping center, which will become Mall Moldova, is completed.

In Romania, 22 Leroy Merlin stores operate, with almost 3,500 employees in 16 cities: Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Craiova, Ploiești, Pitești, Brașov, Constanța, Sibiu, Suceava, Târgu Mureș, Bacău, Iași, Timișoara, Oradea, Târgoviște and Arad.

Cemacon completes merger with Euro Cărămida SA

Cemacon, the leader of the ceramic block market in Romania, controlled by the Paval brothers, is completing the merger process with Euro Cărămida SA. The acquisition of Euro Cărămida SA by Cemacon in 2023 involved a total investment of over EUR 30 million. This amount included both the transaction value and the financing for the modernization projects planned in the following years.

“In approximately a year and a half, we managed to transfer know-how and invest in re-technologizing, thus capitalizing on the resources of the acquired company. Today, we welcome customers with an extensive and diversified portfolio of construction materials, with prompt and efficient services, as well as better logistics coverage in the western part of the country. In addition, the cost optimization and operational efficiency resulting from this merger will allow us to offer more competitive prices, thus supporting our partners in the growth and development of their businesses,” declares Daniel Șologon, CEO Cemacon.

“With the completion of the merger, we are entering the final stage to initiate the export of key products, made from 100% natural Romanian clay. This strategic step will open up new opportunities and strengthen the presence of the Cemacon group in the region,” adds Daniel Șologon.

Source: Profit.ro

Spectral Mobilă ended 2024 with EUR 7.5 mln turnover and continues expansion

The furniture manufacturer and retailer Spectral Mobilă, which owns a factory in Vaslui County, ended 2024 with a net turnover of EUR 7.5 million, up 13% compared to the previous year.

Dan Dodiţă, executive director and shareholder of Spectral Mobilă, says that 2024 was a record year in terms of the volume of investments made by the company, with a 3,500 square meter logistics center, a total investment of EUR 2 million and the expansion of the Spectral Mobilă store network with six more units, projects that involved a total investment of EUR 1.1 million.

“In 2024, we opened six new Spectral Mobilă stores in Cluj-Napoca, Oradea, Timişoara, Miercurea Ciuc, Bistriţa and Roman, thus becoming present in 29 of the country’s counties. In 2025, we will continue to expand the Spectral Mobilă store network, and compared to recent years when we opened exclusively franchise locations, we want to resume expansion through showrooms owned by us directly, “ says Dan Dodiţă.

The Cumulus architectural office increased its business by 20% in 2024

The Cumulus architectural office closed last year with a turnover of EUR 2.7 million, 20% above the level of 2023. The company, which has over 50 employees, is looking at this year with caution.

“For Cumulus and the group of partner companies, 2024 marked an estimated increase in turnover of approximately 20%. The advance was possible due to the diversification of the work portfolio and investments in the company’s internal management. After the completion of the internal project to clarify and establish the processes assigned to clients in 2023, 2024 and the following two years will be dedicated to operational efficiency and increasing the quality of the services delivered,” says Răzvan Puchici, managing partner of the company.

In 2024, Cumulus managed over 15 hotel projects totaling 95,000 sqm, as well as residential projects totaling 180,000 sqm. Also last year, the company finalized a hospital project handed over to the client and an office complex and related functions for the defense industry.

37% increase in turnover and new business lines for the Fortim group of companies

The Fortim group of companies, part of the BNP Paribas Real Estate alliance, recorded a significant increase in turnover in 2024, reaching RON 11 million, from consulting services, 37% more than in the previous year. This performance is the result of diversifying the service portfolio and expanding the activity into new business lines.

“2024 was a year full of challenges, especially in the office space market, with our consulting team managing to position itself among the companies that rented the most offices in Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca. Investments in our clients’ ESG facilities and the development of new business lines, such as consulting in the industrial, residential and marketing segments, have significantly contributed to organic development. This is the fourth consecutive year of turnover growth, and in 2025 we focus on consolidating our position in the market,” said Costin Nistor, Managing Director of Fortim Trusted Advisors, a member of the BNP Paribas Real Estate Alliance.

In 2025, the company’s management estimates similar results to 2024, with growth prospects.

“Romania’s full entry into Schengen will transform our country into a regional hub, with significant benefits for the logistics, production and retail space market. We also observe a maturation of domestic capital, which is increasingly directed towards real estate, contributing to improving the quality of commercial buildings and the supply of new housing,” added Nistor.

DACHSER Romania relocates to Schwartz Immobilien Industrial Park

Dunwell Industrial Brokerage announces the successful completion of the leasing process for a modern logistics space, including office components, with a total area of approximately 5,000 sqm, to DACHSER Romania, one of the European leaders in logistics services. The space is located within Schwartz Immobilien Industrial Park, part of Otter Distribution Group, in the western part of Bucharest, on Industriilor Street.

The newly completed Class A warehouse boasts state-of-the-art specifications and high energy efficiency. Its strategic location offers excellent access to the ring road and benefits from public transportation, connecting Bucharest and its surrounding areas.

“We are proud to have been part of this project! We have been collaborating with DACHSER for several years and have closely followed their development, which has led to the need for a larger warehouse. Having a strong collaborative relationship with Schwartz Immobilien, we successfully completed this project. This collaboration once again demonstrates our commitment to bringing together top companies and high-quality logistics spaces. At Dunwell, we focus on offering the best-customized solutions in the industrial and logistics real estate market, ensuring successful partnerships for our clients. Excellence and efficiency at all levels are two key aspects we continually strive for in our work. We are confident that this warehouse will support DACHSER’s operational growth and efficiency, contributing to the development of Romania’s logistics sector, “ said Daniel Cautiș, Managing Partner of Dunwell Industrial Brokerage.

Holcim Romania has appointed a new director to manage the BCA plant in Adjud

Holcim Romania has appointed a new director to manage the BCA plant in Adjud, Vrancea County.
The role of director of the BCA plant in Adjud was taken over by Adina Pădurariu, who for ten years held several roles within Holcim, including that of Laboratory Chief, later moving to lead the BCA production department as Production Manager.

,,Taking on this role is both an honor and a responsibility that I embrace with enthusiasm. I firmly believe that the success of a plant is based on collaboration, innovation and respect for the team. Together we will build a sustainable and high-performance future, with openness and closeness to the community, “ said Adina Pădurariu, Director of the BCA Plant in Adjud.

CEDER Real Estate Conference & Exhibition to take place on 13th of May, at Radisson Blu Hotel

CIJ EUROPE is thrilled to unveil the 18th edition of CEDER Conference & Exhibition, which will take place on 13th of May, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, in Bucharest.

Why CEDER 2025 is Unmissable:

Insightful Panels & Market Trends: This year’s agenda dives deep into Investor Optimism, Market Growth, and Sustainable Trends, featuring top industry voices and groundbreaking discussions.
Immersive Experience: A state-of-the-art 3-screen display will showcase live schedules, sponsor highlights, and exclusive video content, creating an interactive and engaging atmosphere.
Premier Networking & Exhibitions: With an auditorium capacity of 600 attendees and an expansive foyer hosting 16 exhibition stands, CEDER 2025 offers unparalleled opportunities for industry leaders to connect and collaborate.

The Grand Finale – HOF Awards 2025! This year, CEDER is elevating the experience by proudly hosting the prestigious Best of the Best Hall of Fame (HOF) Awards! The region’s top-performing projects and companies from across Central & Eastern Europe will battle for the ultimate title in real estate excellence. This electrifying event will take center stage during the afternoon session, bringing an added layer of excitement and prestige!
The HOF Awards will take center stage during the afternoon session of the CEDER Conference & Exhibition, adding an exciting and competitive edge to an already dynamic event. Don’t miss this celebration of excellence and innovation in the region’s real estate industry!

CEDER 2025 is set to be the ultimate gathering for insight, networking, and innovation. Join us to shape the future of real estate in Romania! For registrations or marketing opportunities, please check our website: https://ceder.live/

CEDER 2025 Confirmed Partners are: CPI Property Group, AFI Europe, Revetas Capital, Speedwell, Paval Holding, Filip & Company, EVO Properties, Anchor Grup, NNDKP, VASTINT, Popovici, Nitu, Stoica & Asociatii, Lion’s Head, Carbon Tool, Theta Furniture & More, RENOMIA Gallagher, Optim Project Management, Safety Approach, ALUKÖNIGSTAHL, Tiriac Imobiliare.

Romania’s Real Estate market: Sustainable growth and optimistic prospects for 2025

Romania ended 2024 with a remarkable performance in the real estate market, confirming the growth trends recorded over the past decade. According to data from The Concept in its Q4 2024 study, which you can download here, the average price per square meter reached EUR 1,699, up 14% from 2023 and 139.6% from 2014, when the market hit its lowest point following the global financial crisis.

This increase, adjusted for inflation, represents a real-term growth of 52.1%, highlighting that price evolution has generally been sustainable and correlated with economic progress. This pace has been supported by rising incomes, access to mortgage financing, and consistent demand in the residential market.

A Decade of Growth – 2024 Marks a New Maturity Phase for the Market
In 2014, the average price per square meter was just EUR 708, reflecting a period of economic uncertainty. Over the past 10 years, the market has experienced steady growth, with moderate but consistent annual increases. Double-digit growth in 2016, 2017, and 2024 indicates phases where demand surged significantly, driven by favorable economic and social factors.
For 2024, this growth is based on several factors:
1. Rising Incomes – The average net salary in Romania reached EUR 1,059 in October 2024, while in Bucharest, it was EUR 1,321, improving housing affordability.
2. Consistent Demand in Major Cities – Cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Iași, and Timișoara continued to attract both end-buyers and investors interested in the rental market.
3. Recovery of Mortgage Lending – In 2024, 51% of real estate transactions were financed through mortgages, marking a recovery from previous years when cash transactions dominated the market.

Purchasing Power Index Indicates a Balanced Market
A key indicator of housing affordability is the Purchasing Power Index (PPI), which measures how many net average salaries are needed to buy one square meter of housing. In Q4 2024, this index stood at:
• 1.6 nationwide
• 1.4 in Bucharest
These values indicate a stable market where salaries have managed to keep pace with price increases. Although the PPI has slightly increased compared to previous quarters, the current levels are considered affordable compared to other countries in the region.

Transaction Numbers Are on the Rise Again
In 2024, Romania’s real estate market recorded 168,960 transactions nationwide, marking a 6.6% increase compared to 2023. This recovery underscores buyers’ and investors’ confidence in the real estate market.
In Bucharest, the number of transactions reached 50,884, with an annual growth of 4.7%, consolidating its position as the main driver of Romania’s real estate market.
While Bucharest remains the leader in terms of volume, certain counties have shown remarkable performance:
• Iași: +38.5%
• Dolj: +24.7%
• Constanța: +17.8%

These increases reflect the rapid economic development in these regions, attracting both local buyers and investors.
“Romania’s real estate market remains strong, and the growth recorded in 2024 is a clear sign of market maturity. If economic and social factors remain favorable, we can expect continued growth at a more balanced pace,” explains Daniel Tudor, CEO of The Concept Group and CIO of Hubix Investment.
Rental Yields Remain Competitive
Another factor driving real estate investment interest is the average gross rental yield. In 2024, the most attractive yields were recorded in:
• Bucharest: 6.39% – 6.70%
• Iași: 6.18% – 5.74%
• Constanța: 5.86% – 6.45%

In cities like Cluj-Napoca, where prices are higher, yields were lower, averaging 4.26% – 4.29%. This reflects Cluj’s market maturity, which has reached a high level of development but offers limited opportunities for investors focused solely on rentals.
Outlook for 2025 – Continued Growth or Stabilization?
Given the strong performance in 2024, the outlook for 2025 remains optimistic but with a degree of caution. If global economic factors remain favorable, Romania could continue to see moderate increases in prices and transaction volumes.
However, several factors could influence the market:
1. Mortgage Interest Rates – A reduction in rates would stimulate demand, while an increase could slow down transactions.
2. Increase in New Housing Supply – If developers launch a significant number of projects, the market could stabilize, benefiting buyers.
3. Economic Growth – Market stability will depend on wage growth and overall confidence in the economy.

2024 was a positive year for Romania’s real estate market, with sustained price increases, transaction recovery, and competitive investment yields. While several factors could influence market dynamics in 2025, the overall outlook remains optimistic, pointing to continued growth as long as economic conditions remain stable.
This analysis confirms that real estate remains one of the safest investments in Romania, and current trends show the market’s ability to attract both end-buyers and investors.

IULIUS announces the vision proposed for the project in Constanta

IULIUS Company is announcing the vision proposed for the most extensive reconversion, bioremediation and urban revitalization project in Romania, developed on a 38 hectares land in Constanța. The project is reshaping the way urban development is made and represents a vision whereby Constanța will be put on the map of Europe’s major urban landmarks deemed magnet cities. A best practice model for aligning a private investment upwards of EUR 800 million with the urban development strategies of the city and the country, which focuses on creating a ‘city within the city’ type integrated urban complex, with complementary uses, that will help transform the area into a hub for regional, economic, social and touristic development:

• cultural and educational – to support local initiatives, develop the academic community, and diversify the leisure offer;
• retail – with a complete mix of services, brands, and facilities that support the local entrepreneurship and address the community’s requirements;
• public utility functions and services;
• entertainment and edutainment – with new concepts, marking regional or even national premieres, that support the city’s attractiveness as a year-round tourist destination, while also providing locals with new entertainment opportunities in the city;
• sports and leisure facilities;
• park and botanical garden – fitted with hundreds of mature trees, providing a green backdrop, environmental benefits, and set to become a community hub;
• office – to draw companies from industries with added value and to diversify career opportunities for young people, geared towards human resource retention; www.iuliuscompany.ro pagina 1 din 4 • pedestrian, bicycle and vehicle traffic connectivity and mobility solutions – to support the implementation of the regeneration, mobility and connectivity solutions of the public administration for the Anghel Saligny development area.

The vision proposed for the project is signed by Foster + Partners, the architecture studio that created some of the most spectacular, challenging and impactful urban developments across the globe, and focuses on creating a new hub of Constanța, a dynamic and people-centered one, celebrating the local heritage and progress alike. A regeneration of downtown Constanța, which is currently a polluted former industrial site.

“We are excited for the opportunity to be part of Constanța’s future. Our urban plan embraces sustainability, inclusivity and innovation, showcasing how the industrial past of Constanța will become one of its greatest assets. In transforming the urban wasteland into a vibrant hub, we invite locals, investors and tourists to be a part of this transformative journey towards a city that honors its history and embraces a future brimming with life. This is a regenerative journey, involving an entire team of specialists for solving its many challenges. Thus, our vision prioritizes the environmental focus, by integrating green corridors, remediating a hydrocarbon-contaminated land, removing boundaries and developing a sustainable development that compliments harmoniously the existing cityscape,” said Maximilian and Daniel Zielinski, Senior Partners Foster + Partner.

“Constanța is impressive through its history and its defining mosaic of culture and civilization, which is why our project will be designed to honor this heritage. Our wish is to make Constanța a year-round destination, 365 days a year, by establishing a new point of interest, a new destination and new opportunities to promote the city as a business, cultural and social hub. We will do so with the same commitment to our development model, that is restoring a previously industrial area back to the city, reconverted as a living part thereof, smoothly integrated with the urban regeneration masterplan of the city, with a lot of green spaces, new experiences, and consulting with the community. The new development will feature an impressive diversity of entertainment venues, coffee shops, restaurants, first-to-market family leisure concepts, sports infrastructure, thus becoming a community space, the most vibrant part of the city, in an area that is currently cut off from the urban life,” said Raluca Munteanu, IULIUS Development Manager.

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