SEGRO, a leading owner, developer and manager of modern warehouse and production space, has successfully completed the first stage of the BREEAM In-Use certification for existing buildings in Poland, which was scheduled for 2025.
SEGRO's commitment to responsible construction is visible in its actions. Since 2022, new investments must meet the requirements of BREEAM New Construction certification at a minimum level of Excellent. This year, the company went a step further by initiating the BREEAM In-Use certification process for its older properties in Poland. The first stage of the project, planned for 2025, was completed ahead of schedule. It covered 16 buildings with a total area of 335,000 sqm, located in SEGRO parks in Warsaw, Poznań, Stryków, Gliwice and Wrocław.
In the existing buildings undergoing certification, the developer applied solutions supporting reduced energy consumption, sustainable material management, air and water purity, and user comfort. In this phase, particular emphasis was placed on water conservation issues, hence the installation of water-saving fittings and household appliances, the possibility of collecting rainwater for reuse, and the introduction of remote meter reading for customers.
Bartosz Michalski, Director, Logistics, Poland, SEGRO comments: -
For years, we have been implementing innovative solutions in our buildings, necessary to achieve the goals set out in our business strategy and the Responsible SEGRO program. BREEAM In-Use certification is a natural next step in this direction. Introducing further improvements in such a large part of the portfolio requires excellent coordination and cooperation. The project was managed by our teams of Property Managers – their experience proved to be extremely helpful. Understanding from our customers was also extremely important. They knew that the changes being introduced would have a positive impact on business operations in their buildings, and they now confirm that the results are visible and that they are satisfied with them.The use of certified buildings allows for lower operating costs and greater energy efficiency. Through the implementation of new solutions, their functionality and durability are increased. Such facilities offer more comfortable working conditions thanks to better air quality, lighting and acoustics. Meanwhile, elements such as green spaces or relaxation zones positively influence user well-being.
Facilities with BREEAM In-Use certificates are attracting increasing interest from investors and potential customers, mainly companies looking for space that meets high environmental standards. The importance of this topic in the Polish warehouse and production real estate market has been growing in recent years, partly due to the introduction of the EU CSRD directive. Certification ensures compliance with current and future legal requirements regarding energy efficiency and environmental protection. It also supports sustainable development goals and ESG strategies, including the pursuit of zero emissions.
Bartosz Michalski, Director, Logistics, Poland, SEGRO adds: -
The initiatives we are taking are in line with the assumptions and direction set by the BRE organization. After the efficient completion of the first stage, we are continuing our work, richer in knowledge and new experiences. Thanks to its efficient implementation, we can now start preparations for the next phase of the project, planned for 2026, which will cover 17 buildings. It is worth noting that the certificate is valid for 3 years and we expect requirements to be updated, so we must keep our finger on the pulse and continue to introduce modernizations.The company plans to carry out the final, third stage of the project in 2027.