How would you assess the current state of the property market, particularly from your Bydgoszcz-based perspective? How much has this market changed in recent years? What has had the greatest impact on its development?
Edyta Wiwatowska, president of the management board, Bydgoszcz Regional Development Agency and Bydgoszcz Industrial and Technological Park: Bydgoszcz, in recent years, has experienced significant and dynamic growth in both logistics and industrial space, as well as office space, the volume of which has now stabilised. With over a decade of experience of working directly with investors in Bydgoszcz, we can see that they attach great importance to such factors as the city’s convenient transport links and the availability of modern office parks and investment land located within Bydgoszcz’s administrative boundaries. Another key factor is the cost competitiveness of our location – not just in terms of labour costs, but also when it comes to renting modern office space or purchasing land. Without doubt, the investment in roads, public transport, green areas and the development of economic zones in and around Bydgoszcz are making the city increasingly attractive as a place to live and work. This, in turn, is drawing in new investors – both individual and institutional – who recognise the potential of the local property market. Bydgoszcz offers an excellent base in terms of investment sites within the city limits, which come complete with well-developed infrastructure and local zoning plans in place. The total area of such plots comes to 150 ha, around 60 ha of which are located within the Bydgoszcz Industrial and Technological Park – one of the largest zones of its kind in Poland. The logistics and warehousing potential of Bydgoszcz has already been recognised by international developers, who are launching further projects here in the form of modern warehouse parks. Now 740,000 sqm of warehouse space is available in Bydgoszcz, with a further 110,000 sqm under development or in planning. These are high-standard facilities with excellent road connections. Due to the continued interest in our city from outsourcing companies, the volume of office space has grown in recent years to around 155,000 sqm. The new office buildings here are also attractive, thanks to their high-quality finishes, central locations, good access to public transport, the range of technological solutions, and the ability to configure the space to meet individual needs. Bydgoszcz also offers flex office space – an important addition to the city’s office market, providing an excellent alternative for new investors considering this location, as well as for start-ups or businesses who prioritise flexibility, such as those planning short-term projects or requiring smaller teams. In recent years, we have also seen a noticeable increase in the number of residential developments launched in Bydgoszcz. Today, the local property market is certainly stable and reflects a broader trend of reduced speculative investment activity in favour of more secure acquisitions tied to specific ventures.
Which do you think has been the most pivotal event for the Polish property market?
Many factors have influenced the current state of Poland’s economy and the property market in particular, but the most significant were undoubtedly the systemic transformation and introduction of market mechanisms, followed later by Poland’s EU accession and, crucially, the highly effective use of EU funds. These provided a strong stimulus for public investment, especially in infrastructure – roads, motorways, railways, airports, energy – all of which laid the foundation for private investment, both domestic and foreign. Poland has become an attractive location for the outsourcing sector, including IT and manufacturing, and especially for the automotive and household appliance industries.
This is the 300th issue of ‘Eurobuild’. You’ve collaborated with us on numerous occasions. What do you recall about that cooperation?
Indeed, the city of Bydgoszcz has had the opportunity on several occasions to partner with ‘Eurobuild’ for business events or to meet at international trade fairs. In every instance, we greatly valued your professionalism and high-quality content – always complemented by your friendly atmosphere and open-minded approach, which we truly appreciate. I wish you continued success, many more inspiring topics, and plenty of future anniversary issues!
