29.10.2023
Timisoara is the second most developed industrial & logistics market outside Bucharest, with a total modern stock of 733,000 sqm (c.a. 11%) and more than 40,000 sqm under development. Its outstanding proximity to Western Europe, the border, and plug into the TEN-T infrastructure made Timisoara the go-to hub for manufacturing and logistics.
In terms of production, the most developed sectors are computers, electronics & optical equipment, automotive, electrical equipment, rubber & plastics. Global industry giants set foot and subsequently expanded in Timisoara. Continental, TRW Automotive, Hella, Draexlmaier, TE Connectivity, Kimball, and Flextronics are just a few select names that contributed to one of Romania’s strongest production hubs.
The total leasing activity for the first half of 2023 amounts to 88,000 sqm, leading to a vacancy rate of 6.8%. A market equilibrium is considered when the vacancy rate reaches 8%; below this threshold, the market is considered to be a landlord’s market. The status quo is reflected in the rise of headline rents to 4.25 EUR/sqm and the continuous plans for the development of established professional developers. The region concentrates on the operations of the four strongest industrial & logistics investors and developers. CTP, WDP, VGP, and Globalworth have extensive footprints in Timis. The first three companies rely on the economies of scale, network effects, and relative value provided by their extensive pan-European presence and ability to serve a variety of client needs.
CEE-focused investor, Globalworth, seized the opportunity to serve some of the world’s most reputable companies in consumer goods, automotive, electrical equipment, and logistics. Encompassing 58 ha, Timisoara I&II industrial parks span over 132,000 sqm of existing GLA and offer 185,000 sqm for built-to-suit requirements. Global Vision also acted as a general contractor and asset manager for the Continental site.
VGP owns 35 ha in Timisoara, with a total built capacity of up to 180,000 sqm. Presently, it hosts retailers, distribution, and logistics operators due to its strategic location. VGP Park Timișoara, although currently fully leased, still has expansion possibilities.
WDP invested in two sites totalling c.a 22 ha and 156,000 sqm GLA in the proximity of the A1 highway and Traian Vuia International Airport. Blue chip tenants in retail, consumer goods, and logistics thrive in the spaces managed by the Belgian operator.
CTP owns almost a third of the total modern stock in Timisoara – 220,000 sqm. The three industrial parks (Ghiroda, Sud, Vest) are built over more than 34 ha and offer development opportunities for more than 200,000 sqm subject to tenant demand. Major transportation, logistics, distribution, and courier services occupy large areas within the CTP Timisoara business parks.
Other notable industrial & logistics investors and developers in Timis include Logicor, Artemis, and Transilvania Constructii. The local authorities are prepared to bid for international clients as well. The 60-ha Freidorf Industrial Park is split into various parcels with all the utilities on site and can be concessioned for up to 49 years, with an extension option. It is important to note that companies can benefit from tax abatements subject to a transparent scale tied to the total investment amount and headcounts. In addition, any green buildings benefit from further property tax reductions.
Timisoara is not only a strong manufacturing base for global giants or a key point on the map for pan-European investors and developers. It is also a strong entrepreneurial hub. The inherent know-how transfer from international investors, a niche of opportunities to serve global clients with a core business model, and the entrepreneurial worldview set the base for strong local transportation, distribution, auto, and IT production companies.
Timisoara is set to maintain its steady course and potentially expand its service sector, as this avenue is fully supported by an educated workforce and a critical mass of capital.
