MIPIM is one of the largest and most prestigious real estate expos in the world, drawing in investors, exhibitors, and project developers from all corners of the globe. Despite the challenging economic climate, the event attracted a robust turnout in March 2023, with attendees eager to explore the latest trends and opportunities in the industry.

Large Polish representation

The Polish delegation was particularly prominent, showcasing the immense potential of the country's various regions and cities to prospective investors. From bustling urban centers solutions to sophisticated logistic and modern multi-purpose destination opportunities, the Polish contingent offered a diverse array of possibilities for those seeking to capitalize on the country's thriving real estate market, land opportunities and vast talent pool.

ESG on everyone’s list, but …

It is obvious that companies in Poland (and elsewhere) are trying to improve their ESG performance as it is the talk in business these days, however it is not the most easy moment to keep the long term plan while challenged by the short term uncertain situation in markets. But leading Polish developers like Ghelamco, Panattoni keeps investing in the ESG direction.

Warsaw is Growing

The city of Warsaw was also presented during the MIPIM event. Michal Olszewski, Vice President of the City of Warsaw, presented a vision for the city's future during the ‘Poland: Opportunities for International Investors’ conference. Some of the key information he provided in his speech included; The city aims to provide better commuting options. The city has already grown significant in terms of population since Ukraine was invaded, but the forecast are even higher standing at a population of 2.225 million and 230,000 commuting to Warsaw, This is a challenge also in terms of proper housing and residential solution, Warsaw delivered 16,000 apartments in 2022, with 20,000 permits given for future development, but this is far from enough compared to the need.

The city will focus to attract investors and talent by showcasing Warsaw as a sustainable and liveable city for all inhabitants with lots of green spaces and an ESG focus. 

The future of the car industry settling for Poland 

The real estate development sector is not the only industry that is experiencing growth in Poland. The automotive industry is also making significant strides. Mercedes Benz has opened a new factory in Jawor, Poland, which is set to produce electric vehicles (EVs) such as the EQC SUV. This is a significant development for the Polish automotive sector, as it represents a major investment by a global automaker in EV production in the country. The factory is expected to create thousands of jobs and help to boost the local economy. 

In addition, Volvo Cars has established a new research and development (R&D) center in Krakow, Poland, which is focused on software development and digital innovation. The center is expected to employ around 250 engineers and developers, and will work on projects related to autonomous driving, electrification, and other cutting-edge technologies. This move is part of Volvo's broader strategy to expand its global R&D capabilities and stay at the forefront of the automotive industry's technological advances. Overall, these developments suggest that the Polish automotive industry is evolving and adapting to new trends and challenges, such as the shift towards electric and autonomous vehicles. 

New landmark project for Warsaw

One of the most significant Polish announcements at the event was the development of a 6.5-hectare mixed-use project called Towarowa 22, located in the Wola district of Warsaw. The project is a collaboration between Echo Investment S.A. and AFI Europe Poland and will comprise office towers, apartment buildings, rental housing, shops, cafes, and restaurants. Throughout the site there will be streets, footpaths, and cycle paths. The development will include a 150m office building. The remaining buildings will gently slope down to create a smooth transition from the metropolitan Daszyńskiego Roundabout area to Wola's historic buildings. The project aims to use green solutions and meet high environmental standards, making it a sustainable and functional development. Towarowa 22 will also incorporate historic factory building structures into a multi-level city park, creating a green enclave that the Wola district lacks.