Iasi

IULIUS launches TILIA – Today’s Ideas and Leadership In Action (Summit of Romanian Cities), in partnership with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)
IULIUS launches TILIA – Today’s Ideas and Leadership In Action (Summit of Romanian Cities), in partnership with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) 2560 1707 ROMANIA PROPERTY CLUB
  • IULIUS launches new national initiative dedicated to concrete solutions for the development of Romanian cities.
  • The first edition of TILIA Romanian Cities Summit will take place in Iasi on April 23-24, 2026.
  • Over 300 leaders from administration, investment and financing, architecture and civil society gather in Iasi to discuss urban planning and mobility, public-private partnerships and affordable housing.
  • EBRD, one of the largest institutional investors in Romania and a leader in urban regeneration and sustainable real estate, joins TILIA as strategic partner to advance practical, finance‑ready solutions for greener, more inclusive cities.
  • First ever architectural exhibition from Foster + Partners, a renowned international architecture firm, to open to public at the Palace of Culture in Iași. Available for visit April 7 – May 3, 2026.

IULIUS announces the launch of TILIA – Today’s Ideas and Leadership In Action, a national initiative dedicated to concrete solutions for the development of Romanian cities. Implemented through the IULIUS Foundation, TILIA marks the beginning of an annual initiative of dialogue and collaboration for urban development. The first edition of the Romanian Cities Summit will bring together, on April 23–24, 2026, at the Palace of Culture in Iași, over 300 mayors, architects, urban planners, representatives of international financial institutions, academia and civil society, to build together applicable solutions for a better life in Romania’s cities. The summit will be complemented by a national premiere architecture exhibition that can be visited at the Palace of Culture between April 7 and May 3.

The ambition of the initiative is to become an annual benchmark for all actors involved in the transformation of cities in Romania – a space for dialogue in which the urban vision is directly connected with concrete financing and implementation mechanisms, in order to generate real solutions and collaborations that can be put into practice.

“We often talk about cities either in terms of the future or looking backwards. Through TILIA we want to bring the conversation to the present, to what we can do concretely, today, for the cities in which we live. We thought of this approach as a framework in which administrations, investors, architects, academia and civil society work together, not only to generate ideas, but to transform them into applicable solutions, based on real examples and on the application of lessons learned and on the exchange of good practices” said Raluca Munteanu, Development Director, IULIUS.

“The EBRD is delighted to partner with IULIUS in TILIA, bringing Romania’s cities into the spotlight and working together to chart practical pathways towards greener urban spaces, better housing standards and more inclusive communities. We’re excited to lend our expertise to drive the initiative forward.” said Victoria Zinchuk, EBRD Director, Head of Romania.

Future Proof: Foster + Partners architectural exhibition (April 7 – May 3, 2026, Palace of Culture, Iași)

One of the key moments of the first edition is the exhibition, Future Proof by Foster + Partners, presented for the first time in Romania. Recognized worldwide for emblematic projects on six continents and built projects in over 45 countries, Foster + Partners will bring to the Palace of Culture in Iasi 30 models, 3D modulations of representative international projects.

The opening of the exhibition will take place on April 7, 2026, and the works can be visited until May 3, 2026 at the Palace of Culture in Iași – offering the general public, but also professionals in the field, the opportunity to explore decades of world-renowned architecture and urbanism, from Apple Park to the Great Court at the British Museum, the Reichstag (the new building of the Berlin

The exhibition reflects Foster + Partners’ approach to architecture and urbanism, built over more than five decades, around responsible, adaptable and sustainable design. From interventions on historic buildings to masterplans for low-carbon cities and urban systems, the projects presented explore how infrastructure, energy and public spaces can contribute to the development of resilient communities.

Maximilian Zielinski, Senior Partner, Foster + Partners, said: “This is an exciting opportunity to present over five decades of the practice’s work to the people of Iași – inside an incredible building that is the centrepiece of our new masterplan for the historic area. The exhibition sheds light on our approach, which has always been defined by a future-facing commitment to innovation and responsible design”.

During the TILIA – Today’s Ideas and Leadership In Action, the exhibition will be complemented by a masterclass held by the Foster + Partners team, giving architects, urban planners and decision-makers the opportunity to dialogue directly about the application of these principles in real projects.

IULIUS entered a new strategic phase in its development and partnered with Foster + Partners on two projects that were underway: the redevelopment of the Palas mixed-use complex adjacent to the Palace of Culture in Iași, and a vision for the urban regeneration of 38 hectares of former industrial land in central Constanța.

Romanian Cities Summit: from vision to implementation (April 23-24, 2026, Palace of Culture, Iași)

The first edition of the Romanian Cities Summit is built around the idea that cities transform when vision and implementation are approached together.

Day one, April 23 – Urban Vision and Design – explores the principles behind vibrant and people-oriented cities, with international perspectives and case studies in urban regeneration.

The next day, April 24 – Financing and implementation – moves the discussion from vision to concrete mechanisms: financing urban projects, structuring public-private partnerships and solutions for one of the most pressing urban challenges: affordable housing.

Full agenda is available on TILIA official website.

On the main stage, representatives of commercial banks, international development finance institutions together with public policy experts will debate the current challenges of cities – from financing to the legislative framework – with the aim of generating solutions that can then be taken over by all the actors involved.

In parallel, on the second stage, Cities in the Making: Design, Culture and Nature explores the forces that shape the character of a city – from architecture and creative industries, to mental health and green infrastructure.

At TILIA – Today’s Ideas and Leadership In Action, the Romanian Cities Summit, an event held between April 23-24, in Iași, over 300 participants – mayors, architects, urban planners, representatives of academia and civil society – are expected to discuss concrete solutions for the development of cities in Romania.

About TILIA – Today’s Ideas and Leadership In Action

TILIA – Today’s Ideas and Leadership In Action, the Summit of Cities in Romania, is an initiative developed by the IULIUS group, through the IULIUS Foundation, dedicated to concrete solutions for the development of cities in Romania.

TILIA is designed as an annual initiative, which brings together public administrations, investors, financial institutions, architects, academia and civil society in an implementation-oriented framework of dialogue and collaboration.

TILIA aims to become a benchmark for collaboration between actors involved in urban development in Romania.

Details: www.tilia-summit.ro

IULIUS and Atterbury Europe secure the largest loan granted to a real-estate development in Romania – 400 million Euro for the RIVUS Cluj-Napoca mixed-use urban reconversion project
IULIUS and Atterbury Europe secure the largest loan granted to a real-estate development in Romania – 400 million Euro for the RIVUS Cluj-Napoca mixed-use urban reconversion project 1000 500 ROMANIA PROPERTY CLUB

RIVUS Cluj-Napoca, the mixed-use urban reconversion project developed by companies IULIUS and Atterbury Europe, was granted the largest loan for a new real-estate development in Romania. The loan adds up to approximately 400 million Euro and it is in the form of syndicated financing granted four loan institutions: Erste Bank, BCR, BERD, and BRD. RIVUS restores 14 hectares of a former industrial platform back to the city, in the form of a mixed-use project with likely the widest functional diversity in Romania – retail, office, culture, entertainment, park. The project investment is estimated upwards of half-billion Euro, and it is currently in the building permitting phase.

 

RIVUS Cluj-Napoca is a project tackling the urban reconversion of a brownfield area spanning more than 14 hectares into a regional attraction, customized to the expectations and needs of the community and the city. This is a sustainable project and the concept for it was designed by the prestigious international architecture firm UNStudio, with a focus on leveraging Someș River and making it accessible to the public, and integrating the entirety of the former industrial area with the city as a pole of urban development. The largest loan granted to an industrial real estate development in Romania, adding up to 400 million Euro, was secured for this project developed by companies IULIUS and Atterbury Europe. This is a green syndicated loan, secured by meeting the LEED Platinum and EDGE Advanced sustainability standards, which cover the entire development-operation-top-up cycle. The syndicate of banks providing the financing is comprised of Erste Bank (Lead Arranger), Banca Comercială Română (BCR), European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and BRD Groupe Société Générale. The financing primarily focuses on the retail component of the project, including the cultural areas and green spaces, which means a total leasable area of 132,500 sqm.

“For IULIUS, this loan continues the series of premieres in terms of financing: from the first green loan granted to a Romanian company back in 2021, to the largest real-estate refinancing loan in Romania in 2022, and now the largest development loan in the industry. To us, all these milestones certify the attractiveness and quality of IULIUS projects. We are excited that every single time we are able to attract new partners in the financing process, with EBRD now joining the group of banks with which we are collaborating. The mix of local, regional, and global banks provide the financial stability we need in order to focus on what we do best: large scale green mixed-use project, with significant investment values (usually upwards of half-billion Euro), in central locations, and contributing to the economic development of their respective local and regional communities. The trust placed in us by our clients, tenants, and banks motivate us to bring ever more daring, more complex projects on the market, with even greater positive impacts on their respective communities,” said Marius Perșenea, Chief Operating Officer IULIUS.

RIVUS – The largest lifestyle center in Romania

The functional diversity of RIVUS includes:

  • The largest retail area in Romania, spanning 142,000 sqm (integrating the shopping mall, as well as the complementary retail facilities) in a mixed-use concept that enhances the shopping experience with public and leisure services and facilities
  • More than 400 stores, including regional and national premieres
  • 30+ new concept-restaurants and coffee shops overlooking Someș River
  • A new park and landscaped green spaces spanning more than 52,000 sqm
  • Japanese rooftop garden
  • Two industrial buildings reconverted to accommodate cultural venues, office spaces, and services
  • Live arts center– feature integrated for the first time in a real estate project based in Romania
  • First-to-region entertainment concepts for all ages
  • The latest cinema technologies for the first time in Transylvania, as well as open air cinema

Premium green office spaces – 15,000 sqm GLA

International fashion brands Lefties and Stradivarius to open in north-east Romania: the latest store concepts in Iulius Mall Suceava!
International fashion brands Lefties and Stradivarius to open in north-east Romania: the latest store concepts in Iulius Mall Suceava! 1600 723 ROMANIA PROPERTY CLUB

IULIUS Company and fashion retailer Inditex are bringing the most modern store concepts by the Lefties and Stradivarius brands for the first time in north-east Romania in Iulius Mall Suceava. Lefties is a fashion brand catering to the entire family, combining modern design with affordable prices and digital retail technologies. Stradivarius is the women’s fashion brand in the Inditex portfolio, acclaimed for its youthful and sophisticated style. The expansion of Iulius Mall Suceava, set to be completed by the middle of this year, will also include other international brands, drive thru type restaurants, coffee shops, a gym, green spaces, and additional parking spaces.

IULIUS Company is consolidating its partnership with Inditex Group, one of the world leading fashion retailers. Starting the first half of this year and for the first time in the region, Iulius Mall Suceava customers will be able to explore the most modern store concepts available around the world and the latest collections by brands Lefties and Stradivarius.

Lefties will open the latest Digital Store concept, set to integrate advanced technologies that allow for a straightforward and efficient shopping experience. The store will include smart fitting rooms, easy pay cash registers, in-store return stations, and a clothing and accessories customization area. Lefties will have a generous floor area spanning 3,000 sqm, offering timeless, sustainable and high quality essentials for the entire family. The collections for women, men, teenagers, girls, boys and babies are created considering the customers’ everyday needs, with an emphasis on versatile and easy to wear clothing at competitive prices. This will be the first Lefties store in the east of the country and the fourth in Romania.

Stradivarius is one of the Spanish concern’s most beloved brands, operating 850 stores in 64 countries. The brand exclusively addresses women and is recognized for its youthful modern style and versatile design, as well as its affordable pricing. Through every season, the brand offers collections inspired by the latest trends on international catwalks, from everyday clothing pieces to formal wear and accessories.

The two Inditex stores will open in the first half of this year, upon completion of the Iulius Mall Suceava expansion, which is set to deliver a total leasable area of 60,000 sqm. The new shopping area will integrate modern shopping and dining concepts, including department stores and fashion brands, some for the first time in the region, as well as restaurants, coffee shops, drive-thru venues, ice cream parlors, a gym, and additional parking spaces. Furthermore, new access routes will be created, connecting the mall and the additional parking spaces, and the area will benefit from landscaping features, green spaces and ambient features to improve the visitor experience.

Romanian premiere: Foster + Partners, a world leader in contemporary architecture, is designing IULIUS’ developments in Constanța and Iași
Romanian premiere: Foster + Partners, a world leader in contemporary architecture, is designing IULIUS’ developments in Constanța and Iași 750 536 ROMANIA PROPERTY CLUB

IULIUS Company, one of the largest real estate developers in the country, marks a new strategic development stage and will collaborate with Foster + Partners, one of the most innovative and world-renowned architecture firms, to implement the company’s new urban development vision. The two projects that IULIUS is developing in Iași and Constanța will harness Foster+Partners’50-plus years of global expertise.

The architects’ holistic approach will be reflected in these two major projects:

  • Palas Iași reconfiguration: the company’s landmark project and its best-performing one in the retail segment outside the Capital will be reconfigured to meet the current demands of the market and the community. The transformation will highlight the uniqueness of the location by integrating the Palace of Culture and positioning it in the city’s civic and cultural center and thus enhancing the visitor experience.
  • Large-scale urban reconversion project in Constanța: an investment upwards of 800 million Euro targeting the Oil Terminal platform, which will be completely decontaminated and reconnected to the rest of the city, in a modern, vibrant, and sustainable urban environment. The concept proposed by Foster + Partners offers a vision for the redevelopment of this area, now completely isolated from the rest of the city, transforming it into an attractive hub, with integrated functions that will support the economy, tourism, and social life. The project will revitalize Constanța and strengthen the city’s status as a strategic economic, social, and cultural hub, while contributing to regional and national competitiveness.

“Our entire activity over the past 25 years has revolved around projects that transform cities into better spaces for communities. The projects initiated with Foster + Partners are two of the most complex initiatives we have undertaken so far. In Iași, we are upgrading an existing complex in an iconic historical location, where reverence for the surrounding monuments, such as the Palace of Culture, is paramount. In Constanța, we are likely dealing with one of the largest decontamination projects in Europe and the opportunity to give an identity to an area currently isolated and contaminated. We propose to fully reintegrate this urban space, now an enclave, into the city and transform it into a vibrant center with functions that the city currently lacks. With the expertise of Foster + Partners architects and by working closely with the authorities and the respective communities, we are confident that we can implement a vision that redefines urban development standards in Romania,” said Iulian Dascălu, President of IULIUS Company.

“We are honored to work with IULIUS in addressing the challenges of urban regeneration in two cities of great significance in Romania. Both the Palas Iași project, with its historical and cultural complexity, and the reconversion of the platform in Constanța, a large-scale industrial area, offer opportunities for creating lasting positive impact. It is rare to find a developer with the courage and vision to take on such ambitious challenges. We are proud to lend our expertise and we are confident that, through this collaboration, we will transform these locations into sustainable and attractive destinations, serving as models for the future,” said Maximilian and Daniel Zielinski, Senior Partners Foster + Partners.

Romanian Airports Growth: 25 million passengers in 2023
Romanian Airports Growth: 25 million passengers in 2023 2046 1293 ROMANIA PROPERTY CLUB

22.01.2024

The Romanian Airports Association announced that nearly 25 million passengers were recorded at Romanian airports throughout the last year, marking a significant milestone by remarkable pre-pandemic levels.

Iasi Airport

According to the association’s data, the figures for 2023 revealed a remarkable 17% increase compared to 2022 and an impressive nearly 6% rise over the numbers recorded in 2019 (23,234.580 people). David Ciceo, the president of the Romanian Airports Association, expressed optimism, highlighting that air traffic across Europe is expected to reach 2019 levels by the end of the current year.

In Iasi, authorities recently inaugurated a new terminal, following a historic year with a traffic of 2.3 million passengers, making it the third most transited Romanian city, after Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca.

The aviation sector in Romania experienced contrasting trends in 2023. The total number of aircraft landings and take-offs saw a robust 5.6% increase, reaching 233,027, showcasing the resilience of the industry. In contrast, air cargo traffic witnessed a 5.7% decline, with 50,786 tons transported, down from 53,877 in 2022. Despite the decrease in cargo activity, the spotlight remained on the significant rebound in passenger traffic, emphasizing the sector’s overall adaptability and recovery.

Ciceo attributed the passenger rebound to substantial investments in airport infrastructure, including new terminals, expansions, and modernizations. Expressing optimism, he stated, “We expect traffic values to grow steadily, and we estimate that in 2040, Romanian airports will exceed 50 million passengers.” This positive trajectory highlights the resilience of the Romanian aviation sector in overcoming challenges.

Residential market still weak in offers for Romania’s third city
Residential market still weak in offers for Romania’s third city 2560 2560 ROMANIA PROPERTY CLUB

30.11.2023

Iasi represents Romania’s third city in terms of population, with strong local universities that nurture over 55,000 students annually. With those figures, the city is still weak in terms of new, modern housing units.

Iasi

Data collected by RPC from imobiliare.ro show that offers for the first three quarters in 2023 total 1,275 apartments, of which the new units listed count for 410, a minus of 18% as compared to the same period of the previous year.

The two major new residential projects in Iasi are developed by investors with national track record: Impact Developer & Contractor and Prime Kapital. Impact obtained the building permit for a major scheme totaling 1,062 apartments on Copou hill. Prime Kapital is developing a mixed-use scheme on the former Teba industrial platform. The new project has an important residential component, totaling 1,549 apartments to be delivered in different stages of construction. The first stage should be delivered by year end according to previous announcements from the developer, while construction for the second phase is underway. Each construction phase comprises approximately 300 units.

In terms of demand for both new and old units the figures for the third trimester show a plus of 4% as compared to the same period of 2022, while the figures for Q1-Q3 of the current year show a minus of 3% as compared to Q1-Q3 of the previous year.

Transactions for the first three quarters total 4,489 for the entire county, according to data from Cadaster Office – ANCPI. The figure represents a minus of 18% as compared to the previous year.

Regarding the rental residential units, there are increases for both first three quarters – a plus of 11%- and for the third quarter – a plus of 2%. The total offers indicate a minus of 31% as compared to the previous year and another minus of 16% for new listings on the market. The rents have seen an increase of 12% in Q3 2023 vs Q3 2022.

20,000 sqm to be added to the 170,000 sqm of modern retail stock
20,000 sqm to be added to the 170,000 sqm of modern retail stock 2048 1365 ROMANIA PROPERTY CLUB

29.11.2023

Iulius Group pioneered modern retail in Iasi when it developed the first shopping center outside Bucharest – Iulius Mall, in 2000. Initially a 19,000 sqm development, the retail scheme doubled GLA through subsequent expansions. Today, it hosts over 180 shops, a cinema, a Carrefour hypermarket, and a food court.

Iulius Mall, Iasi

However, the primary shopping destination for Iasi and the broader Northeast region is Palas Iasi, developed by the same visionary investor. Palas Iasi is part of Romania’s most significant urban regeneration projects. It features the renovation of the iconic Palace of Culture, seven United Business Center office buildings, a hotel, an events expo, an open-air theatre, and a 62,000 sqm shopping center. Probably the crown jewel of the Northeast region, the total investment in Palas Iasi stood at 310 million EUR and served as essential infrastructure for the overall economic development. Increasing living standards by offering modern retail, office, and entertainment options, Iasi attracted the second youngest workforce after Bucharest. In addition, a steady number of multinational companies provided training and an increased average income, making Iasi a desirable destination not just for university studies but for permanent living.

Iulius Group brought two other concepts to the market. The first one is Family Market, two strip centers located in Iasi’s most dynamic suburban areas (Miroslava and Bucium). The second is the 6,000 sqm commercial area in Palas Campus, a destination for F&B and services to serve the 5,000 employees in the business center.

Other retail schemes in Iasi include Era Shopping Park, a 50,000 sqm retail park located towards the exit to Bucharest. Inaugurated in 2008, Era Shopping Park is anchored by key retailers such as Carrefour, Mobexpert, Rovere Mobili, Brico Depot, Altex, Decathlon, JYSK, Sportisimo, Pepco, Kenvelo, etc. Shopping Park Iasi, opened in 2014 by Square 7, spans 11,000 sqm leased by Flanco, MaxiPet, JYSK, and Kik. In addition, the 10,000 sqm commercial area in the Silk District that developed in five subsequent phases shall enrich the modern retail offering of the city.

Thus, the total stock of modern retail surpasses the 170,000 sqm threshold. The c.a. 20,000 sqm of modern retail expected on the market should increase the retail density  (retail space to 1,000 inhabitants) to 650, an indicator lower than in most other cities in Romania — the number signals room for growth, pending continuous economic development and wage increase. Iasi’s prime shopping center rent is 55 Eur/sqm, whereas retail park rent ranges between 7 to 12 Eur /sqm.

However, there is encouraging news that places faith in the city’s economic prospects. IKEA most recently announced a 24,000 sqm store, its fourth in Romania, opening in Era Shopping Park in 2024. This step confirms that there is a critical mass of young families looking to buy or update property, with an income level matching Western standard.

Iasi office market capitalizes on the talent pool nurtured by the seven universities in the city
Iasi office market capitalizes on the talent pool nurtured by the seven universities in the city 2560 2560 ROMANIA PROPERTY CLUB

27.11.2023

The vision of building the first modern office building in Iasi was the crux of the city’s development. Traditionally, blue-collar jobs set the premises for developing more sophisticated services that require modern infrastructure. However, in the case of Iasi, the pioneering led by the Iulius Group set the premise for the city’s economic development. The group transformed the central area through one of the most significant mixed-use urban regeneration projects in Romania.

Palace Campus, Iasi

Following the bold vision of “build, and they shall come,” Iulius developed the first class A office building in Iasi, United Business Center I – a shy 7,000 sqm in 2010, 15 years later than the first modern Class A office buildings delivered in Bucharest. Fast-forward a decade plus later, Iulius developed 130,000 sqm, representing 50% of the total office stock in Iasi and more than two-thirds of the Class A stock. Its most recent portfolio addition is Palas Campus, a 120 million EUR investment spanning over 54,000 sqm of offices and 6,000 sqm of commercial areas. It is home to Amazon, Microsoft, Cognizant, Expeleo, AMD, Hella, and many others. These reputable companies joined a group of over 70 multinationals that decided to capitalize on the talent pool nurtured by the seven universities in the city.

In addition to the United Business Center and Campus buildings, there are two other notable office developments in Iasi. Moldova Center, the reconversion of a former department store into a functional office building, added 16,000 sqm of GLA in the center of the city. It was fully leased by companies such as Webhelp, Conduent, 3Pillar, and HCL. Tester Group built Ideo Centro (later rebranded as Tester Technology Park), a 25,000 sqm business park hosting KPMG, Tata Technologies, Oracle, and Conduent, among others.

In Iasi, the asking rents range from 12 to 15 EUR/sqm, and the vacancy rate is still in the single-digit range, with a preference to work from the office, as the commute is not as burdening as in Bucharest and the workforce requires more in-person time for training and collaboration. Moreover, people enjoy the modern facilities and sense of community provided by the integrated commercial–office schemes and the apprenticeship that comes from shadowing. However, the low vacancy rate and the limited competition of class A office buildings lead to lower tenant incentive packages than in Bucharest.

Prime Kapital is the second prominent investor who took a leap of faith and embarked on a large mixed-use urban regeneration project in Iasi. Silk District is a large-scale residential and office scheme complimented by 10,000 sqm commercial spaces and a 4 ha private park to serve residents and the neighboring area. The first phase of the BREEAM Outstanding office park (c.a. 104,000 sqm at maturity, 5 buildings) is scheduled for delivery in Q4 2023, after a slight delay from its announced target date. Communication concerning the future tenants is pending.

Iasi to take off in new development stage
Iasi to take off in new development stage 2560 2560 ROMANIA PROPERTY CLUB

27.11.2023

Public investments of 1.2 billion EUR and private investments in new, modern, real estate projects of half of billion EUR are transforming Iasi in one of the most important cities on Romania’s investment map.

Iasi

Ongoing public investments:

  • 100 million EUR for the expansion of the airport Terminal 4, with the aim of reaching an annual traffic of 3.3 million passengers.
  • 670 million EUR for Iasi Emergency Regional Hospital.
  • 300 million EUR for Mircesti-Pascani lot from A7 motorway.
  • PNRR 175 million EUR for city modernization: trams, schools, and old blocks refurbishments.
  • 40 million EUR from EBRD for Dacia tram depot.

Real estate investors such as Iulius, Impact Developer & Contractor, Prime Kapital, plus retailers such as Ikea and Jumbo, also added Iasi to their portfolio.

Iulius finalized this spring a 120 million EUR investment in Palas Campus. Impact obtained the building permit for a major scheme totaling 1,062 apartments on Copou hill. Prime Kapital is developing a mixed-use project on the former Teba industrial platform: 1,549 apartments and 100,000 sqm of class A offices. Jumbo inaugurated a 10,000 sqm unit in October, while Ikea announced Iasi as the third city where it will build a new store in Romania.

The modern office stock counts for 260,000 sqm. The asking rents range from 12 to 15 EUR/sqm and the vacancy rate is still in the single-digit range.

The city is weak in terms of new, modern housing units. Data collected by RPC from imobiliare.ro show that offers for the first three quarters in 2023 total 1,275 apartments, of which the new units listed count for 410, a minus of 18% as compared to the same period of the previous year.

Regarding the retail sector, 20,000 sqm will be added to the existing 170,000 sqm. The broader Northeast region is the least developed in terms of industrial and logistics, representing a mere 2% of the total modern stock.

In the last 10 years, although Iasi hotel tourist arrivals increased by 105% (around 156,000 new tourists), the number of new hotel rooms increased with only 11%. Branded hotels represent only 12% of total rooms capacity and all of them are within “3-star” ranking.  There are no 4* or 5* branded hotels in Iasi.

The county hosts 983,506 people, second only to Bucharest. The metro area of the city of Iasi is where more than half of the county’s population resides. The strong base of an educated workforce attracted dozens of reputable multinational companies, transforming Iasi in Romania’s Silicon Valley.

The proximity to Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova makes Iasi an informal capital for the broader region.

Iulius has signed a partnership with IFC, a World Bank member, to create a decarbonation strategy for the entire property portfolio
Iulius has signed a partnership with IFC, a World Bank member, to create a decarbonation strategy for the entire property portfolio 2048 1152 ROMANIA PROPERTY CLUB

17.03.2023

IULIUS has recently signed a partnership with IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, for the purpose of developing a strategy to decarbonize the entire portfolio of the company and achieve net-zero emissions. IFC will use the Green Pathways for Real Estate Institutional Portfolios (GRIP) platform to provide solutions for defining, implementing and financing the plans of IULIUS to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to reach CO2 neutrality as soon as possible. This would be the first such engagement in Romania.

IULIUS Palas, Iasi

IULIUS is consolidating its sustainability goals for the following years and has thus entered into a partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group. IFC will use the GRIP platform to support the company in the process of putting together a plan of actions to help reduce the carbon footprint across the entire portfolio. “Buildings are responsible for a third of greenhouse gas emissions globally. Through this partnership, Iulius and IFC are helping to accelerate climate action in real-estate development”, said Ary Naim, Regional Manager for IFC in Central and Southeast Europe.

In fact, IULIUS has always built in an environmentally conscious manner and owns the only LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified nationwide shopping mall network in Romania. This adds to the Palas Iaşi and Iulius Town Timişoara mixed-use projects and the 15 office buildings in the United Business Center network in Iași, Timișoara and Cluj-Napoca, which are all green building certified. “We are particularly excited about this new partnership, which will help us take our sustainability strategy to the next level. The company has already undergone a comprehensive process of implementing high standards of energy efficiency, sustainable management of green spaces, outdoor surfaces and waste, and other sustainable solutions, as confirmed by the LEED certifications. However, we want to contribute even more to maintaining a healthy environment by reducing the carbon footprint in all eight of our projects,” said Dan Adrian Chelaru, Group Sustainability Officer IULIUS. 

Examples of certifications 

  • Palas Iași – the only LEED® Neighborhood Development certified project in Central and Eastern Europe
  • All 15 buildings in the United Business Center network are LEED® certified, of which UBC 0 (the most recent certification) and UBC 3 Timișoara are LEED® Platinum certified.

In addition to meeting the highest modern technical requirements, their implemented solutions, comfort and safety, the projects developed by IULIUS also benefit from hundreds of bike parking spaces, electric vehicle charging stations, excellent access to public transit, all of which helps reduce the use of personal vehicles and cuts pollution. They are also the only real estate projects in Romania to include urban gardens, which are initial investment upwards of € 17 million.

In 2021 IULIUS also obtained the first green loan granted by IFC to a Romanian company, in the amount of € 72 million for Palas Campus in Iaşi. The ample office project, set to open this spring, is also undergoing a dual green certification process: EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) by IFC and LEED by the US Green Building Council.

© Romania Property Club, RPC, 2026 - All rights reserved.

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