Dragon still breathing fire

In the summer of 2005, a plan was hatched in a cafe in Warsaw for the expansion into Poland of a new player – Panattoni Europe – developing medium sized warehouse projects. For taking on the competition already established in the land
of the Vistula, today it has proved worth its weight in gold. In 2007, the new space leased by the company’s tenants amounted to nearly 400,000 sqm, whereas the figure for its main rival, ProLogis, was only slightly higher at 440,000 sqm. Last month, the firm broke the record for the largest single area leased – 56,000 sqm to Leroy Merlin in Stryków. Robert Dobrzycki, Panattoni’s regional partner in Central & Eastern Europe, has presided over much of the success of the American developer in the region

What do you like the most and the least about conducting business in the CEE region?

What I like is the straight forward attitude of the people. However I must admit that I don’t like the extensive administrative procedures in acquiring permits and approvals for development in the CEE region.

How did you first get into real estate?

After my studies I applied for the position of financial analyst in a real estate development company and surprisingly I got the job.

What do you regard as your greatest professional success so far?

Delivering a medium-sized 16,000 sqm industrial building in very difficult weather conditions, together with a wide-ranging amount of infrastructure work within 2.5 months. We managed to deliver it on time, working in 3 shifts.

What is your greatest failure?

In the past I didn’t recognise the potential of one of the development sites. Following this, it was developed very successfully by another company. 

Which living person do you most
admire and why?

Carl Panattoni, for his commitment to building the system - a platform for excellent people, transcending any short term interest.

What contribution do you think you have made to society through your business activities?

Our developments around Poland and the CEE region have provided a lot of work for local contractors. Also, our tenants and clients have subsequently given employment to thousands of people.

What large-scale projects are you planning in the near future?

Our Silesian team is starting the second phase of Panattoni Park Myslowice, which is a 50-ha industrial park located in the heart of the CEE region. We will be contributing to the local community by building the local road infrastructure and helping the city – I think this will become Panattoni’s flagship project in the CEE.

Here in Poland what is your favourite building and why?

The 52,000 sqm H&M building in Poznań, which until recently was the largest deal ever signed in Poland. Interestingly, the latest record deal was signed by Panattoni Europe.

What is your fondest memory?

The year 2005, when Panattoni entered the Polish market; it totally changed my life. 

Which is your favourite restaurant here in Poland?

Champions Sports Bar is my favourite restaurant as it gives me the opportunity to watch football with my friends.

Which characteristic do you hate most in others?

Dishonesty and hidden agendas are characteristics I find unacceptable.

How would you like to be remembered?

I would like to be remembered as a person who helped to create a platform that makes people happy.