Establishing CON-A in the early 1990s was a pivotal move during Romania’s transition from communism. Can you share insights about CON-A’s inception and navigating the early stages of capitalism?

Despite the restrictive communist mentality, my approach to life and business was always liberal. Following the 1989 changes, legislation increasingly encouraged investment, fostering a new sense of freedom that intrigued me. Prior to CON-A, I was part of a large public company with 600 employees, but the chaotic environment led me to resign and launch my construction venture. It started with just three of us, but over the past 30 years, the group has expanded to more than 1,000 employees. Central to our growth has been assembling a team based on moral values, something I take immense pride in.

CON-A has significantly grown since its inception. What range of services does the company presently offer?

We offer comprehensive turn-key solutions, covering everything from design to full project execution. Investors often approach us with land, and together we conceptualize and design projects, obtain necessary permits, and see them through to operational status. We have our design company, CONDesign, focusing on industrial projects. As general contractors, CON-A MEP ensures mechanical and electrical installations. Additionally, we operate two factories producing metallic structures, concrete products, and building facades, among others.

How has the business been impacted by the global pandemic, and which sectors are driving demand?

The Romanian Government’s decision not to halt construction sites during the pandemic was crucial, enabling the sector, including our company, to maintain an upward trajectory. In the industrial segment, investors paused momentarily to reevaluate investments but have resumed plans. Meanwhile, residential spaces are expanding, with an increased preference for houses over apartments. The office sector has experienced a slowdown, primarily awaiting post-pandemic prospects.

What, in your view, are the primary challenges faced by a construction company operating in Romania’s real estate market?

Abrupt and substantial cost surges in construction materials, notably concrete and steel, have been an unexpected challenge this year, escalating up to 50% in some cases. Such fluctuations significantly impact construction firms, especially those without protective clauses in contracts. Moreover, a workforce shortage persists, particularly in skilled labor. Efforts to address this include training programs, yet there remains a deficiency in available workers.

CON-A has been involved in various landmark projects in Romania. Could you highlight some noteworthy ones, and what’s currently in progress?

Projects like BTarena in Cluj-Napoca or the Craiova Stadium stand out as we’re particularly proud of achieving exceptional results with relatively low costs. Additionally, our contributions to factories for major brands like Daimler, Bosch, Continental, and Pirelli have been significant. Presently, we’re constructing a groundbreaking biofuel factory in Podari, a pioneering endeavor in Europe.

Looking ahead, what are CON-A’s strategic objectives in the coming years, including any thoughts about expansion beyond Romania?

While there’s ample work within Romania keeping us occupied, expansion abroad, perhaps to nearby countries like the Republic of Moldova, might be considered in the future. Our immediate focus lies in reducing carbon emissions as per European Law, an extraordinary challenge that involves innovative approaches in processing concrete and reinforced steel. Additionally, digitalization will be a key area, streamlining information flow from active sites to enhance decision-making and optimize resource distribution.