
- Romania | 24 April 2021

How would you describe Skanska’s presence in the local real estate market, particularly in Romania, within the broader portfolio of the company?
Skanska initially ventured into the Romanian market in 2011, preceded by a task force assessing the business environment since 2008. Romania holds a significant role in Skanska Commercial Development Europe (CDE), alongside Hungary, Czech Republic, and Poland. The CDE division, securing the highest surface area built per square meter for three consecutive years, has seen substantial contributions from Romania due to the streamlined development processes here, especially in IT, shared service centers, and BPO sectors. The market is rapidly maturing, exhibiting notable progress in health and safety standards and overall product quality.
Amid this promising evolution, what are the most noteworthy ongoing projects in Romania?
We’ve commenced the second phase for Equilibrium, scheduled for completion by Q1 2023. Additionally, we’ve completed Campus 6.2 & Campus 6.3 and will proceed with the final phase, Campus 6. The pandemic posed challenges, but we persevered, ensuring progress with about 500 workers, prioritizing health and safety while adhering to Skanska’s core values.
How did the pandemic impact your office business, and what measures did you undertake to mitigate risks?
The pandemic highlighted the importance of office work for mental health and community interaction. Future offices emphasize wellbeing, safety, and human connection, featuring larger communal spaces and advanced facilities, designed to maximize natural daylight in over 85% of frequented areas. We introduced the Care for Life Office Concept, offering touch-free access and air filtration, certified by the WELL Health & Safety Rating.
How receptive is Skanska to innovation, particularly in the digital sphere?
We’re highly receptive to innovation, especially evident during the pandemic. We’ve embraced a user-friendly 3D platform by Bright Spaces and developed tools like Climate Target to monitor carbon footprints. Our proprietary app, Connected by Skanska, facilitates building access and parking management, emphasizing sustainability and community influence in our projects.
Sustainability holds a significant place in real estate. How does Skanska incorporate this into its projects?
Skanska aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045, recycling materials, using renewable energy sources, implementing rainwater recirculation, and offering community amenities like electric vehicle charging stations and rooftop tracks in projects like Equilibrium 1 and Campus 6.
What other key objectives is Skanska prioritizing in the next two-three years?
Our primary focus is developing user-friendly office spaces while keeping an eye on emerging opportunities in various real estate sectors. We aim to sell our projects to investors to ensure market liquidity, fostering local investment to reduce dependence on international players sensitive to economic or political fluctuations.
Any final thoughts on Romania’s real estate market?
Romania’s economic potential is immense, evident in the burgeoning real estate market with a well-educated workforce excelling in international roles. Contrary to perceptions, conducting business transparently and ethically is increasingly prevalent, signifying the country’s promising prospects.