BUCHAREST REAL ESTATE CLUB

Shaping a New Era of Development in Southeast Europe

CBRE Study: Physical Retail Dominates, with Major Brands Rapidly Expanding in Europe
CBRE Study: Physical Retail Dominates, with Major Brands Rapidly Expanding in Europe 960 600 BUCHAREST REAL ESTATE CLUB
  • Nearly three-quarters of study respondents plan to expand their portfolio of bricks and mortar stores.
  • Retailers primarily target Retail Parks for expansion plans.
  • 72% of retailers aim to increase their store space, compared to 26% in 2022, with physical stores remaining a key element in the overall strategy.

Bucharest, 29th October 2024 – The results of the CBRE European Retail Occupier Survey 2024 emerge during a time of optimism, as the retail sector and regional economy overall approach the end of a challenging period. The study includes responses from over 60 global retailers with a store network of over 130,000 locations, and shows that 71% of retailers planning to increase their number of physical stores intend to do so in markets where they are already present.

The preference for larger stores is one of the key trends observed in the market, particularly among fashion and athleisure brands in capital cities and major urban areas. A trend specific to the luxury sector is owning stores instead of leasing them. However, leasing remains the predominant strategy for the mass market, with 84% of respondents stating they have no plans to purchase stores.

„Improved consumer confidence is starting to translate into higher spending, which is giving retailers confidence to commit to stores both in markets familiar to them, and new markets altogether. Brand loyalty is often enhanced through in-store experience, and this is where we see retailers really committing to store investments and using bricks and mortar to truly showcase their brand identity”, highlighted Chris Gardner, Head of European Retail, CBRE.

In terms of preferred formats, Retail Parks are dominant, with 45% of respondents favouring them as locations for future stores. The popularity of this format is also supported by factors such as: 1. High foot traffic generated by residents in the area, 2. Access to free parking, and 3. Similar retailer profile within the same retail park—all three criteria being identified as influential factors for store performance.

Overall, bricks and mortar stores remain an essential component of strategy, with 97% of respondents acknowledging their importance. Additionally, there is a shared belief on the effectiveness of physical stores, which outperform online retail in terms of consumer engagement, cross-selling, overall sales strategy effectiveness, introducing new products, and attracting new customers.

„The fact that 72% of retailers want to increase the size of their physical stores, compared to just 26% in 2022, along with the appetite for expansion in both new and existing markets across Western Europe and CEE, suggest a favourable 2025 for retail. The sooner retailers can implement AI solutions, the more they will be able to enhance store profitability and the shopping experience. I would like to thank the retailers in CEE and EMEA who participated in our study; the findings are extremely interesting and reveal some key trends for the coming year”, stated Carmen Ravon, Head of Retail Occupiers CEE, CBRE.

BRCC x BREC – REAL ESTATE CONFERENCE 2024
BRCC x BREC – REAL ESTATE CONFERENCE 2024 1067 600 BUCHAREST REAL ESTATE CLUB

The Romanian Diversity Chamber of Commerce (RDCC) and The British Romanian Chamber of Commerce (BRCC) are pleased to announce the Real Estate Conference 2024, set to take place on November 5th, 2024 at The Marmorosch Hotel in Bucharest.

This event will gather leading professionals, legal experts, and design innovators to explore the future of accessibility and inclusive design in the real estate sector. The conference is open to industry professionals, developers, architects, and anyone interested in the evolution of real estate towards a more inclusive future.

“The Real Estate Conference 2024 is a pivotal platform for fostering dialogue on the importance of accessible and inclusive design,” said Lestat Monroe, founder of the Romanian Diversity Chamber of Commerce. “As we look towards the future, it’s important that our real estate developments reflect the diverse needs of all community members. This conference will highlight the strategies, legal frameworks, and innovative designs necessary to create truly inclusive spaces.”

“This conference will serve as a key platform to explore new innovations shaping the real estate and construction industries, while also highlighting the critical importance of inclusivity. Attending the conference offers a great opportunity for industry professionals to come together, share expertise, and collaborate on building a more accessible and inclusive future.”, said Madalina Ciinaru – Head of British Romanian Chamber of Commerce, Bucharest Office

The key panel “Building the Future: Accessibility and Inclusive Design in Real Estate” will delve into the critical aspects of making real estate developments accessible for everyone.

More info about the event here: Innovating Real Estate and Construction: Trends and Inclusiveness | BRCC

POWER CUBE 150, a versatile solution for energy storage and for charging electric cars
POWER CUBE 150, a versatile solution for energy storage and for charging electric cars 900 600 BUCHAREST REAL ESTATE CLUB

PRIME Batteries Technology, Eldrive Romania and ALLSPARK Energy present a versatile solution for energy storage and charging electric cars. The “Energy Cube” is named POWER CUBE 150 and can power electric cars with energy captured from the grid or from photovoltaic panels. It is ideal for areas where the electricity grid needs upgrading.

Similar to the principle of harvesting and using rainwater, the POWER CUBE 150 can capture and store energy from the grid, with low and constant consumption, to protect the electrical systems in the area. When an electric car comes to be charged, it can benefit from high charging power – up to 150 kW – without affecting the electricity grid.

This makes the POWER CUBE 150 ideal for use in remote hotels or hostels, but also in gas stations, which often do not have enough installed power to ensure normal gas station operation, plus charging stations for electric cars.

“I’m glad that Eldrive Romania is part of this project because we can show how versatile are the charging solutions that our company offers to customers. Our charging services for electric cars are located in the parking lots of shopping centers, office buildings, residential neighborhoods and fuel stations, and now we can also go to more remote areas or where the national electricity grid is underdeveloped,” said Camelia Popescu, Country Manager, Eldrive in Romania.

Eldrive has made it a priority to increase the density of charging points for electric cars throughout Romania and to ensure a reliable charging service.

RIVER DEVELOPMENT becomes SEMA Real Estate
RIVER DEVELOPMENT becomes SEMA Real Estate 1200 352 BUCHAREST REAL ESTATE CLUB


RIVER DEVELOPMENT becomes SEMA Real Estate

The local real estate developer and investor River Development announces the transformation of its current brand, River Development, into SEMA Real Estate.

River Development represented the identity of the developer for more than 20 years and supported the image of a prominent player on the real estate market in Romania. The rebranding marks a new stage for the company, reflects its natural evolution and brings more clarity to defining the communication pillars of our projects in the portfolio and in strengthening the brand positioning in the market.

“The new SEMA Real Estate name and visual identity is actually our authentic identity, which we have resonated with, all these years. More specifically, we’re going back to the future! The keyword SEMA is already recognized for our flagship project, Sema Parc, one of the most significant mixed-use developments in Bucharest, that includes office buildings, commercial spaces and a residential area. The rebranding emphasizes the legacy and importance of this project to the company’s identity and its role in shaping its future developments with professionalism and enthusiasm. Therefore, all our current developments, as well as the future developments, will be under the same umbrella: SEMA.” – declares Oana Rădulea, Managing Partner SEMA Real Estate.

“We are preparing to launch our first residential project, SEMA Home. Through this project, we are setting out to build a complex of collective housing and mixed functions. The project stands out for its firm commitment to sustainability and community. The residential development – ​​SEMA Home, located in the southern area Sema Parc’s project, is planned to take place in several phases, of which the first one will start in the first quarter of next year.”

“Our mission remains the same, to reshape the city by transforming and remodeling the urban landscape in the central-western area of ​​the capital, through the sustainable development of our two large-scale projects – Sema Parc and The Light. We remain true to the same value system, such as: Authenticity, Courage, Pragmatism and Responsibility.”

“The slogan of our main project, Sema Parc – “In the heart of the community” represents more than a promise to take care of our team and our community of tenants, but also our responsibility for their well-being. “We are motivated to do good by doing better – both in service to others and in supporting causes that lead to positive change in our society. Driven by this desire to do good, this year we established the SEMA Foundation with the purpose of promoting and supporting a healthy lifestyle, both through preventive actions and through material interventions, psychological and emotional support.”- says Oana Rădulea, Managing Partner SEMA Real Estate.“

New hubs on Bucharest map: InteRo announces 1 billion EUR new project at Obor
New hubs on Bucharest map: InteRo announces 1 billion EUR new project at Obor 1141 600 BUCHAREST REAL ESTATE CLUB


New hubs on Bucharest map: InteRo announces 1 billion EUR new project at Obor

InteRo Property Development starts construction works at its EUR 1 billion, green project SkyLight Residence in Obor area. Recently the Topolinski Family paid the final EUR 12.5 million owing and took full ownership of the plot valued at EUR 120 million.

SkyLight Residence is a 15-minute City Concept project that offers residents a healthy and convenient “Live, Eat, Work and Play” lifestyle with retail, commercial space, office buildings, schools (private schools, kindergartens, nurseries), premium fitness centers, business centers, event rooms, first rooftop infinity pools in the city, dog park, children playground, and outdoor running track.

This ground shaking large scale high-quality project with a total built area of 486,000 sqm is located within the Heart of Obor directly next to Veranda Mall and across from Piata Obor. It is located with very convenient access to all major public transportations in the area as the tram line is immediately outside of the project and Metro Obor is only 800 meters away.

“We are excited to launch our most iconic and ambitious project, a reflection of our family’s commitment to the sustainable development of Bucharest real estate. We designed SkyLight Residence as a green, energy-efficient project and, given its features and transformative potential, it was included in District 2 Mayor’s project to revitalize Gara Obor and the surrounding area. The Mayor’s visionary project financed by the World Bank is an example of intelligent development and our Family is happy to get on board and create additional value for the sustainable future of this neighborhood.” said Michael Topolinski, founder of InteRo Property Development.

Phase 1 will deliver 551 apartments within 7 buildings. As construction works will accelerate by the end of this year, InteRo Property Development plans to have the first residents occupy in 2027.

Learn more about SkyLight Residence and schedule an in-person meeting with the sales team by visiting: https://skylightresidence.ro

River Development appointed Ana-Maria Pascu as Leasing Manager
River Development appointed Ana-Maria Pascu as Leasing Manager 552 600 BUCHAREST REAL ESTATE CLUB


River Development appointed Ana-Maria Pascu as Leasing Manager

The local real estate developer and investor River Development announces the appointment of Ana-Maria Pascu to the position of Leasing Manager, starting September 2024.

Ana-Maria Pascu has been part of the River Development’s team for more than 20 years, as an Economist, with responsibilities in the department that manages the relationship with the community of clients in the mixed-use project, Sema Parc. The economic studies background combined with quickly developed analytical skills, effective communication, and in-depth understanding of the dynamic of the relationship with the clients, are some of the attributes that make her suitable for this role.

“Ana-Maria recently took over the role of Leasing Manager and in this new position she will oversee all leasing activities within the River Development portfolio, ensuring that our developments continue to achieve high occupancy rates and maintain their status as first-rank locations on the local market. We are confident that she will bring the leasing management to the same level of excellence as her counterparts in the real estate market. Consolidating River Development’s team with people who have many years of active work and dedication in the development process of our main projects, Sema Parc and The Light, as well as with people who bring „fresh air”, is one of my business goals.” – declares Oana Rădulea, Managing Partner River Development.

“I am honored to accept this new challenge and continue my professional journey with the role of Leasing Manager, within the River Development team. After a long period where I have had the opportunity to work closely with the team and understand the nuances of our business and portfolio, I am excited to bring my experience to the execution of our leasing strategies, contributing to the company’s continued growth and success.” – stated Ana-Maria Pascu, the new River Development’s Leasing Manager.

HILS Development announces significant investment in Green Homes Certification
HILS Development announces significant investment in Green Homes Certification 918 600 BUCHAREST REAL ESTATE CLUB


HILS Development announces significant investment in Green Homes Certification

HILS Development announces the pre-certification of Green Homes for the HILS Sunrise project, marking a first for the eastern area of Bucharest and an innovation in the company’s portfolio.

The total investment, amounting to 3 million euros, includes both the pre-certification costs and the investments in technologies and facilities necessary to comply with the Green Homes standard.

The Green Homes pre-certification attests that HILS Sunrise has a minimal impact on the environment and guarantees a high level of comfort for future residents. The project reduces energy consumption and gas emissions, uses less water, and generates fewer waste products. This contributes in the long term to combating climate change, protecting ecosystems, and conserving natural resources.

According to the Romania Green Building Council, owners of a Green Homes certified property can save 744 euros annually compared to a similar B-type home with an average area of approximately 70 sqm. This is due to a lower interest rate of approximately 9% for a green mortgage (4.75% per year compared to 5.25% per year for a home without a Green Homes certificate) and reduced energy consumption costs, which can drop to just 33 euros per month.

The project, located on Theodor Pallady boulevard, revitalizes a former industrial site and brings innovations in the use of renewable energy, facilities for electric vehicles, and bicycle storage spaces, measures to reduce the heat island effect, and efficient irrigation and recycling solutions.

The construction materials have a low volatile organic compound content, ensuring a healthy environment for residents. Ground-floor apartments feature private gardens, and advanced energy monitoring systems keep monthly costs affordable. With quick access to the Anghel Saligny metro station and proximity to shopping and educational facilities, HILS Sunrise offers an ideal balance between urban living and green spaces.

Fortim Trusted Advisors announces the start of apartment sales in Corallis
Fortim Trusted Advisors announces the start of apartment sales in Corallis 1067 600 BUCHAREST REAL ESTATE CLUB


Fortim Trusted Advisors announces the start of apartment sales in Corallis

Fortim Trusted Advisors company, specialized in Real Estate consulting and management, exclusive representative in the sale of the Corallis residential complex, developed by KÉSZ Romania, announces the start of apartment sales and the launch offer.

KÉSZ Romania obtained the building permit for the Corallis residential complex, the first project in the capital, in which it is investing over 51 million euros. The construction will be carried out according to the requirements of BREEAM Excellent, in line with KÉSZ’s vision to develop based on knowledge, using innovative, environmentally friendly technologies that contribute to the quality of life.

“We are delighted to be able to start construction on Corallis, which has all the qualities of a modern project, including rooftop apartments, so that residents can enjoy the spectacle of nature from the comfort of their homes. We will build energy-efficient apartments to the highest quality standards, which offer extra living comfort through thermal and sound insulation at a higher level, intelligent heating solutions, all of which will generate lower maintenance costs”, declares Tatár Zsolt, Real Estate Development Manager of KÉSZ Romania.

Corallis residential project, located in the northern part of Bucharest, in Petrom City area, on Coralilor street, with an opening to Lake Grivita, includes 221 apartments, with studios, two, three and four rooms. The apartments are spacious, with built-up areas between 60 sqm and 200 sqm, to which terraces and gardens are added.

“Corallis complex is unique, both due to its location on the shore of Grivita Lake, and due to the large number of facilities, which offer the environment suitable for a western lifestyle, in a select community. The location benefits from the natural setting provided by the lake, thus offering the future residents of Corallis fresh air, peace, and a view of the lake, which ensures spectacular sunsets. The positioning in the northern part of Bucharest, 5-6 minutes by car from the Press House and Herăstrău Park, offers accessibility to the points of interest in the city and the office poles in the northern area.

The development of the complex by a reputable construction company is an asset of the project. KÉSZ has in its portfolio numerous reference projects on the Romanian market, among which are: One Herastrău Park Residence, Dacia One, the central administrative headquarters of Banca Transilvania, Tradecenter, Nymphaea Aquapark Wellness & Thermal SPA and Hexagon Offices”, said Costin Nistor, Managing Director at Fortim Trusted Advisors, member of the BNP Paribas Real Estate alliance and exclusive representative of Corallis.

Corallis ensemble will benefit from reception, concierge, fitness club, lakeside promenade area, playground, themed gardens, green area for yoga and pilates, renewable energy produced by photovoltaic panels, over 370 parking spaces, furniture urban and outdoor socializing area.

Flanco Retail moves to Sky Tower
Flanco Retail moves to Sky Tower 901 600 BUCHAREST REAL ESTATE CLUB


Flanco Retail moves to Sky Tower

Sky Tower, Romania’s tallest building and a notable sustainable landmark in Bucharest, welcomes its newest tenant: Flanco Retail, one of Romania’s leading retailers of electronic and household appliances.

Starting in July, Flanco occupies the entire 11th floor of SkyTower, spanning over 1,150 sqm. This move represents a strategic step towards providing employees with a modern, comfortable working environment in a multi-purpose building that offers top-tier facilities. The building is located in Barbu Vacarescu – Floreasca, the most vibrant and effervescent area of Romania’s capital city.

“We are delighted to offer Flanco team a turnkey office space that meets the needs of major retail companies,” ?????? ?????? ????, ??????? & ????? ??????? ??? ?????????? ???????? ??????? ????????????? (????) ???????, ??? ??????? ???? ???? ??? ??????? ???????? ?????????.

The relocation to the new headquarters also marks the retailer’s strategic shift towards repositioning as the first smart discounter store chain in Romania’s electro-IT sector.

SkyTower Bucharest stands 137 meters tall with 37 floors and a 60-meter underground structure for storage and parking. The tower is the first building in the world to receive SHORE PLATINUM certification, the first office building in Romania certified with LEED Platinum for Operations and Maintenance, while also holding the GOLD DGNB certification for sustainable buildings, evaluated by ÖGNI (Austrian Society for Sustainable Building Management).

Last year, Sky Tower won a RE-markable AWARD for its SkyHub Events Centre, a high-tech community and events space designed to expand the tower’s facilities and services and to host community events and activations.

HILS Development partners with Red Cross and Dinamo 1948
HILS Development partners with Red Cross and Dinamo 1948 900 600 BUCHAREST REAL ESTATE CLUB


HILS Development partners with Red Cross and Dinamo 1948

HILS Development continues its strategic community involvement with two new initiatives, becoming the official partner of Dinamo 1948 starting from the 2024-2025 season and supporting the Red Cross through the Summer Choir 2024 Charity Concert.

With the mission to build communities and provide quality living for as many residents as possible, HILS Development takes responsibility for engaging in community life beyond residential development. Sports, education, and health are fundamental pillars of the community.


HILS Development x Red Cross through the Summer Choir 2024 Charity Concert 

The “Summer Choir 2024” charity concert will take place on July 20, at the Romanian Athenaeum, in partnership with the Romanian Red Cross. The event is scheduled for July 20, 2024, at 7:00 PM, at the Romanian Athenaeum, and aims to support the activities of the Romanian Red Cross in combating school dropout and supporting E.G.A.L. day centers for disadvantaged children and adolescents.

HILS Development is committed to support the activities of the Romanian Red Cross by backing this charity event, thereby contributing to the fight against school dropout and offering hope to children in vulnerable communities.

All funds raised from ticket sales will be donated to support the E.G.A.L. day centers of the humanitarian organization, thus contributing to the fight against school dropout.

The public is invited to the event, where music and charity combine to offer hope to the children of Romania.


HILS Development x Dinamo 1948

Through the new partnership with Dinamo 1948, the company supports one of the most beloved sports in Romania and contributes to the success of a legendary team.

“Through HILS Development’s strategic community involvement pillar, we can contribute to the strengthening of Dinamo Club. Sports are a vital platform for the health of any community, and football, in particular, has the power to bring us together. It’s no secret that I love this sport, and Dinamo has always been my favorite team. I am honored to support them once again, this time as the founder of HILS Development, the official partner of Dinamo 1948″, ????? ????? ???????, ??????? ??? ??? ???? ???????????.

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