Panattoni strengthens presence in Europe with entry into Belgium

Panattoni, the most active industrial real estate developer in the world, is expanding its operations in Europe by entering the Belgian market.

Panattoni has appointed Jeroen Gerritsen as General Manager, Belgium, to lead the new business. The launch in Belgium is a logical strategic step for Panattoni, which has market-leading expertise in delivering high-quality, sustainable logistics facilities.

With key ports and excellent connections to major European markets, including Germany, France, the Netherlands, and the UK, Belgium is a crucial link in the European logistics sector. Owing to its favourable location, the country is an attractive destination for establishing multi-functional logistics facilities for occupiers. There is a growing demand in Belgium for high-quality and sustainable logistics facilities, which aligns with Panattoni’s commitment to be net zero carbon in all of its new developments by 2025.

Panattoni’s first development in Belgium is expected to be in Wallonia. Construction is scheduled to start in the autumn.

Robert Dobrzycki, CEO & co-owner of Panattoni Europe, UK, and India, said: "Belgium is a central hub in the European logistics sector. By developing sustainable real estate solutions that meet the specific needs of the Belgian market, we aim to contribute to the further development and sustainability of Belgian infrastructure and provide our clients with the opportunity to establish themselves in this logistics hotspot”. 

Jeroen Gerritsen, General Manager Belgium, added: "We are optimistic about the opportunities that the Belgian market offers us and look forward to working locally, building relationships, and growing within this dynamic logistics environment. We are excited to soon present our new Belgian offering of future-proof multifunctional business spaces".

To support the expansion Panattoni has appointed Joren van Hout as Technical Development Director for Belgium, and further appointments will be made shortly. With more than 12 years’ experience in the public and private sides of the construction industry, including at Heylen Warehouses and as a project manager for the Municipality of Westerlo in the province of Antwerp, Van Hout brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise. 

In his new role as Technical Development Director, Van Hout will manage relationships with the public sector, contractors, architects, engineering and other technical consulting companies. During the project development process he will oversee the technical feasibility study of acquisitions, project integration into zoning plans, design realisation, engineering, planning, budgeting, and guiding the construction process.