**Bucharest**: Alina Necula, Country Manager at Lion’s Head Investments, discusses Romania’s evolving real estate landscape, highlighting trends in logistics, sustainability, and changing workplace dynamics. She anticipates growth and investment opportunities as the sector aligns with modern infrastructure needs and the rise of hybrid work models.
In a recent exclusive interview with Business Review, Alina Necula, Country Manager Romania at Lion’s Head Investments, provided insights into the current state and future prospects of the Romanian real estate sector. Highlighting the importance of moving resources efficiently, Necula elaborated on several key topics including the company’s initial logistics project, the growing demand for sustainable real estate, and evolving workplace trends.
Discussing the company’s first logistics project situated in the southern area of Bucharest, Necula indicated that the project is currently in the planning and feasibility assessment stage. “Most of the pre-development activities have been completed, and the next step is to secure the building permit and start construction,” she stated. Work on the project, which will unfold in four phases featuring three industrial buildings, is expected to commence in the second quarter of this year, with the initial phase anticipated for completion by early next year. The logistics park is designed to be Class A, prioritising flexible space, environmental sustainability, and the incorporation of advanced technology to enhance safety and efficiency.
Necula commented on the rising trend of ESG compliance within the real estate sector, noting that the demand for green-certified buildings has intensified. “Sustainability is more than a regulatory requirement, it’s a smart investment in efficiency, cost savings, and environmental responsibility,” she explained. The company is actively working towards embedding sustainability into all facets of their developments, citing their experience with Oregon Park, an advanced office project in Bucharest, as a benchmark for quality in sustainable infrastructure.
The Romanian real estate market is positioned as a dynamic sector attracting significant investment interest. Necula emphasised Romania’s potential as a strategic hub for long-term opportunities in logistics due to the surging need for modern infrastructure and sustainable building practices. “From our discussions with investors, we see continued interest in Romania’s real estate sector,” she remarked, indicating shifting dynamics in investment strategies while maintaining Romania’s appeal as a market for forward-thinking investors.
Examining the division of office versus logistics spaces within Lion’s Head Investments’ portfolio, Necula revealed that the logistics sector is rapidly expanding. The firm has entered this market while continuing to manage one of Bucharest’s iconic office developments, reinforcing their commitment to delivering high-quality spaces that align with business needs and sustainability standards. “The logistics market continues to experience significant growth and demand for modern, sustainable infrastructure,” Necula noted, attributing this growth to factors like the rise in e-commerce and supply chain optimisations.
In terms of office space demand, Class A facilities have shown increased popularity. Necula described Oregon Park as a prime example of the standard for quality in office developments, citing strong demand due to its location and design features. Furthermore, she mentioned the current trend where businesses are adopting hybrid work models. “We’re seeing a shift back toward office spaces, albeit in a more flexible form,” she observed, as companies acknowledge the value of in-person collaboration.
Looking ahead, Necula indicated a transformative year in 2024 as they expand into the logistics segment, aligning their development strategy with evolving market demands. Addressing potential challenges that might arise due to the socio-political landscape in 2025, she acknowledged the resilience of the real estate sector, particularly in logistics and office spaces. “Challenges may arise in the short term… however, there are also positive developments that will help drive growth,” Necula affirmed, alluding to Romania’s anticipated accession to the Schengen Area as a pivotal factor that could bolster trade and economic integration.
As the Romanian real estate sector adapts to these multi-faceted developments, the company aims to position itself strategically to meet the growing demands of the market while fostering sustainability and efficiency in its projects.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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