The “Polish Infrastructure and Construction” conference started surprisingly, with a presentation by a representative of the banking sector. The opening speech entitled “Great Expectations – Time for a Revival” was delivered by Piotr Bujak, Chief Economist and Director of the Department of Economic Analysis, PKO Bank Polski.

In his speech, Mr. Bujak demonstrated how much the construction industry depends on the broad macroeconomic environment. The construction industry, especially housing, does not like high interest rates, which is why the resumption of the cycle of cuts is eagerly awaited. Moreover, it is a so-called “counter-cyclical” industry, i.e. during good times, costs often are on the rise. Wage increases, especially the minimum wage, have been a significant burden on the construction industry. Nevertheless, according to the speaker, the economy is returning to normal and we have managed a so-called “soft landing”.             

Afterwards, the assembled guests had the opportunity to listen to a case study presented by dr Maciej Kiełbowski and Maciej Zych, Attorneys and Partners, Wardynski & Partners Law Firm. The presentation was entitled “Design Defect Claims and CAR/EAR Insurance”.

The speakers, on the example of one of the investments handled by the law firm, presented the validity of using CAR/EAR insurance in construction and infrastructure projects. CAR – Construction All Risk – is a property insurance similar to standard real estate insurance, but for facilities that have not yet been completed. Although damage caused by design defects is normally excluded from this insurance, it can sometimes be included. However, it cannot be an abstract defect, such as non-compliance with the design. Nor can it relate to a defectively designed part of the structure. Material, physical effects, such as cracks, are most often recognized as damage.

After a short break, it was time for the first panel discussion, entitled “Public Procurement”. The moderator of the debate was dr Hubert Wysoczański, Partner, Lawyer, SSW Pragmatic Solutions. Participating in the discussion, in turn, were Agnieszka Kubiszyn, Director of the Public Procurement Department, Metro Warszawskie, Anna Łopaciuk, Director of the Infrastructure, Transport and Logistics Program, Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego, Hubert Nowak, President, Public Procurement Office, Jan Styliński, President of the Board, Polish Association of Construction Industry Employers, Przemysław Szulfer, Director of Treasury and Public-Private Partnership, Vinci Construction in Poland (Warbud and Eurovia), Bartosz Tokarski, Financial Practice Leader, Deputy Director of the Strategic Clients Insurance Office, EIB, Maciej Ziomek, Consultancy Leader in the Transport and Infrastructure Sectors, Partner, EY Poland.

The discussants focused on two aspects – the functioning of public procurement law in Poland and possible regulatory changes, as well as the issue of unlocked funds for investments from KPO, the total value of which may be as high as €600 billion, and the upcoming accumulation of infrastructure projects.

Speakers agreed that the theoretically binding principle of mutuality in public procurement is a lifeless provision, and there is still a large disparity of power between procurers and contractors. What is needed, in their opinion, is greater professionalization of those responsible for handling tenders, on both sides of the process. On the other hand, the introduction of clauses on contract valorisation was viewed positively.

Meanwhile, the question of whether the market and the institutions involved in the investment process, including financiers, will be able to cope with the coming accumulation of projects was a matter of concern among the discussants. Also raised was the issue of non-price criteria in tender evaluations, which are still largely a sham and have no influence on contracting authorities’ decisions.

Another highlight of the program was a case study presented by Mirosław Metych, Partner, Head of M&A, Hoogells Oleksiewicz.

The presentation focused on discussing the current guidelines for implementing ESG criteria in infrastructure companies, both at the EU and national levels, as well as funding opportunities.

Among the financial instruments mentioned were green bonds, for sustainability purposes, social bonds – linked to infrastructure that provides well-being for people, or transition bonds, which allow investment in the transition through indirect methods to a green business model.

The next speech was presented by Andrzej Bułka, CEO, Fracht FWO Poland.

According to the speaker, contemporary global trade requires skilled logistics. Meanwhile, few countries can afford to keep the entire production chain internal. A professional logistics partner today must not only focus on transportation, but also assist customers in financing ventures and bear the legal risks arising from transportation.

After Mr. Bułka’s speech, it was time for the second panel, entitled “Road Construction”, which was moderated by dr hab. inż. Janusz Rymsza, Professor of the Road and Bridge Research Institute, Deputy Director for Scientific Affairs and Management Systems. Participants in the discussion included Sławomir Barczak, Director of Infrastructure Department, Mostostal Warszawa, Grzegorz Dziedzina, Acting Deputy General Director of National Roads and Motorways, dr inż. Norbert Kurek, General Director, REMEA, Tamara Małasiewicz, Managing Director, Polish Consulting Engineers and Experts Association SIDiR, Michał Siembab, Partner, GKR Legal Law Firm, Michał Ziajowski, Member of the Management Board, Managing Director of LSO, Aebi Schmidt Polska.

Participants in the panel treated the topic in multiple ways, referring to the issue of public procurement, the economic situation of the infrastructure industry as well as the prospects for the development of the sector, both in economic and technological terms.

Panellists spoke with moderate optimism about the current economic situation in the infrastructure construction industry. Price increases associated with recent global events have been a major blow to many contractors, but the possibility of contract valorisation of up to 15% has helped most to weather the difficult period. However, high costs, which have risen by more than 20% on average in the industry, may mean that even the record funds available for investments will not necessarily translate into the expected number of implementations.

Looking ahead, the discussants addressed the issue of introducing circular economy elements into infrastructure investments. At present, circular solutions are being adopted by a few pioneers, but we need to make them become systemic solutions. For now, we have a situation where everything that leaves the construction site is treated as waste. And in order to put the material back into circulation we need many additional approvals, permits, etc. Meanwhile, we simply cannot afford to treat valuable materials, even from demolition, as waste. The belief that “new is better” still prevails. Architects do not consider the use of recycled materials. Contracting authorities do not want to use them and are afraid for their durability. This needs to change.

The final, special panel of the conference was held under the name “Polish Construction Industry Round Table – Leaders’ Debate”. Moderating the discussion was Konrad Wyrwas, Strategic Director, Polish Association of Construction Industry Employers. Participants included Krzysztof Świerczek, Member of the Board, PKP Intercity, Jorge Calabuig Ferre, Vice President of the Management Board, Mostostal Warszawa, Piotr Kledzik, President of the Management Board, PORR, Hubert Nowak, President, Public Procurement Office, Artur Popko, President of the Management Board, Budimex, and Wojciech Trojanowski, Member of the Management Board, STRABAG.

Leaders of the construction and infrastructure sector primarily attempted to diagnose the industry’s current problems and tried to formulate forecasts for the future. Representatives of the largest construction companies agreed that the industry will cope with the current negative consequences of the international turmoil. However, attention was drawn to the need to build a certain consensus among all participants of the investment process, which should lead to the development of lasting templates and standardization of contractual provisions.

Speakers stressed the need to rebuild a sense of peace and stability in the industry so that it can focus on educating new personnel. This will be a major challenge for the construction industry in the coming years. In addition to engineers and builders, there is a shortage of specialized personnel related to modern infrastructural technologies. However, it is important to remember to educate youth wisely, not in contradiction to the needs of the market.

The “Polish Infrastructure and Construction” conference can be viewed at this link

Find out the results of the Infrastructure and Construction Diamonds 2024 competition!

The culmination of the “Polish Infrastructure and Construction” conference was the evening Awards Ceremony – “Infrastructure and Construction Diamonds”. The gathered guests were formally welcomed by: Ms. Beata Radomska – CEO of the Executive Club and Prof. dr hab. Michał Kleiber – Chairman of the Executive Club Council, Chairman of the Polish Committee for UNESCO, Knight of the Order of the White Eagle. A representative of the Gala Partner – Mr. Stijn Theeuwen, Managing Director, MM Brown – Chocolissimo brand – also addressed the participants with his message.

The nominees were leaders and companies related to the infrastructure and construction sector, characterized by high level of workmanship and economic efficiency. The Competition Jury made the choice in ten competition categories, ultimately awarding 11 prizes and 2 honourable mentions.

The ceremony ended with a banquet combined with a networking evening and a concert performed by the Banglaband Collective.

The ” Infrastructure and Construction Diamonds” gala can be viewed at this link

Among the winners of the competition were:

Realization of the Year: Cubature Construction

Mostostal Warszawa

Realization of the Year: Road Infrastructure

Budimex

Technical Advisor of the Year

B-Act

Honourable mention: Multiconsult Polska

Green Construction Leader

Kajima Poland / Holcim Polska

Advisor of the Year

WKB Wiercinski, Kwiecinski, Baehr

Leader in Financial Services for Construction

EIB

Railway Company of the Year

Metro Warszawskie

Honourable mention: Koleje Śląskie

Construction Company of the Year: Cubature Construction

Kajima Poland

Construction Company of the Year: Infrastructure Construction

PORR

Personality of the Year

Artur Popko, President of the Management Board, Budimex

Organiser:

Executive Club

Media Patrons:

Automatyka Przemysłowa, Magazyn Autostrady, Budowa.org, Budownictwo.org, Budownictwo: Trendy&Biznes, Buduj z Głową, Dobry Dom, Drogowo-Mostowy.pl, Ekonatura, Energooszczędny, Inżynier Budownictwa, InżynierUR.pl, Kapitał Polski, Kruszywa, Mosty, Nieruchomości.biz, Polska Ekologia, Mediaplanet, Portal Przemysłowy, Rynek Infrastruktury, Staleo.pl, Technologie i Budownictwo, Teraz Środowisko, Warsaw Business Journal, Zrobotyzowany.pl

Author: Krzysztof Kotlarski, editor at Executive Magazine

Artykuł Report from the 15th edition of the Polish Infrastructure and Construction conference! pochodzi z serwisu Executive Club.

The event was inaugurated by a special guest – dr hab. Waldemar Rogowski – Chief Analyst, BIK Group, who discussed issues related to the housing loan market and its impact on the housing market. He also presented current situation in the mortgage market, pointing out trends and forecasts regarding their availability and cost.

After the speech, we smoothly moved on to the first discussion panel named “Public Procurement”, moderated by Anna Prigan, Attorney-at-law, Partner, Wardyński & Partners. The dicussion participation inluded: Anna Łopaciuk, Director of the Infrastructure, Transport and Logistics Programme, Manager in the Strategic Relations Department, Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego, Hubert Nowak, President, Public Procurement Office, Jan Styliński, President of the Management Board, Polish Association of Construction Employers, Przemysław Szulfer, Director of Treasury and Administration, Warbud, Bartosz Tokarski, Leader of Financial Technology, Deputy Director of the Strategic Clients Insurance Office, EIB.

Experts have commented on the amendment of public law, commenting on the amendments to the Polish construction industry. According to the speakers, in order to implement public investments, it is necessary to meet the best challenges on the market. In this context, the speakers described the valorization of contractors in the face of price increases and the conditions for the completion of started projects so that building companies wouldn’t have to leave the construction site. The speakers unanimously emphasized that effective cooperation between the public and private sectors in the form of PPP is a tool for raising funds for the development of Polish infrastructure. In addition, in order to use this function fully, it is necessary to support the management of infrastructure investments.

After a short networking break, the presentation named “Model, costs and time – the benefits of combining data in the 5D BIM methodology” was presented by Ewa Giniewska – Business Development Executive MTWO, SoftwareOne. In her speech, she presented practical examples of using this methodology in construction projects, showing the benefits of its use, such as minimizing the risk of errors and delays, as well as reducing costs. In addition, she emphasized the importance of the use of appropriate software and the ability to work with data for the effective use of this methodology.

After Ewa Giniewska’s speech, it was time for the second discussion panel entitled “Road infrastructure”, moderated by dr hab. Eng. Janusz Rymsza, prof. IBDiM, Deputy Director for Research and Management Systems. The discussion was attended by: Jakub Saloni, CEO, Menard, Kamil Simka, Vice-President of the Management Board, Director of the North Region, Eurovia Polska, Michał Ziajowski, Member of the Management Board, Managing Director of LSO, Aebi Schmidt, Tomasz Żuchowski, acting as General Director of National Roads and Motorways.

The discussion mainly concerned the possibility of avoiding collapse in the construction industry, related to the shortage of funds and qualified employees. During the discussion, the issue of rising construction costs, including the cost of materials and high salaries of construction industry employees, was also raised. This panel allowed to identify problems and opportunities related to the future of Polish infrastructural construction. The discussion showed that there are difficulties in the construction industry, but also development opportunities that should be used in a responsible and sustainable way.

After the lunch break, it was time for the third panel: “Railway infrastructure and transport”. The moderator of the discussion, Maciej Ziomek, CFA, EY Polska, Strategy and Transactions, Advisory Leader in the Transport and Infrastructure Sectors, Associate Partner, invited panellists, among whom were: PhD Eng. Jerzy Lejk, President of the Management Board, Metro Warszawskie, Dr. Jakub Majewski, President of the Management Board, “Pro Kolej” Foundation, Artur Martyniuk, President of the Management Board, General Director, Polregio, Jarosław Oniszczuk, Member of the Management Board, PKP Intercity, Marcin Trela, Vice President, Office of Rail Transport.

During the panel discussion, the Kolej Plus program and its impact on the development of railways were discussed, as well as whether the investments will increase the comfort of travel for passengers and help in the fight against transport exclusion. The needs and ways of investments in railways, financing and construction of new tractions, investments in rolling stock and maintenance points were also discussed. Solutions supporting the digital transformation of railways were also an important topic. Experts tried to answer the question of how new technologies can contribute to the development of an integrated and secure infrastructure. The panel was concluded with a discussion on how to encourage people to use rail and metro.

After a short networking break, the presentation named “Why making decisions based on data is the way to success (using the advantage of data)” was presented Remigiusz Pyszka – Country Leader MTWO, SoftwareOne. In his speech, he emphasized the importance of using data in making business decisions. He pointed out that today’s competitive advantage lies in the ability to use data and their proper interpretation. He also drew attention to the essence of cybersecurity in the context of data storage and use and the importance of proper data management.
The fourth and last panel discussion of the day named “Green construction” was moderated by Aleksandra Przywózka, Architect and Project Manager at APA Wojciechowski Architekci, PhD student at the Faculty of Architecture of the Warsaw University of Technology. The experts of the last panel were: Dr. Eng. Andrzej Maciej Czapczuk, Vice President of the Management Board and General Director of F.B.I. TASBUD, President of the Management Board of TASBUD SVERIGE AB, Maciej Kopański, Investment Director, Baltcap, Łukasz Marcinkiewicz, General Director of LHE and Lafarge Infrastructure Solutions, Artur Michalski, Vice-President of the Management Board, National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management, Dr inż. Artur Pollak, President of the Management Board, APA Group.

Experts discussed the benefits of transforming the construction sector towards a circular economy. Increasing energy efficiency and the use of RES are key requirements for achieving environmental goals. The subject of changes on the market of building materials in connection with the requirements of decarbonization and the goals that manufacturers of building materials set for themselves in the context of environmental protection were also discussed.

Infrastructure and Construction Diamonds

After the substantive part of the Polish Infrastructure and Construction conference, it was time for the evening gala, which was officially opened by Beata Radomska – CEO, Executive Club. and Prof. dr hab. Michał Kleiber – Chairman of the Executive Club Council, Chairman of the Polish Committee for UNESCO, Knight of the Order of the White Eagle.

The culminating point of the Gala was the awarding of statuettes in 9 Competition Categories, which honored the best enterprises as well as outstanding managers and business leaders. In addition, first special prize was awarded: A socially responsible company.

The winners of the competition were:

REALIZATION OF THE YEAR
       ●  Cubature construction:
Winner: Warbud
Honorable mention: Unibep

       ●  Road construction:
Winner: Strabag
Honorable mention: Eurovia

TECHNICAL ADVISOR OF THE YEAR:
Sweco Poland

CONSTRUCTION CHEMISTRY LEADER:
Sika Poland

GREEN BUILDING LEADER:
Winner: Lafarge
Honorable Mention: ONDE

ADVISOR OF THE YEAR:
Wardyński & Partners Law Firm

LEADER OF FINANCIAL SERVICES FOR CONSTRUCTION:
       ●  Banking sector
Winner: Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego
Honorable Mention: European Investment Bank

       ●  Insurance Sector
Uniq

RAILWAY COMPANY OF THE YEAR:
Warsaw Metro

CONSTRUCTION COMPANY OF THE YEAR:
Mirbud

PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR:

       ●  Personality of the Year – Railway Sector
Artur Martyniuk, President of the Management Board of Polregio S.A.

       ●  Personality of the Year – Construction Sector
Nicolas Depret, President of the Management Board of Eurovia and Warbud

SPECIAL AWARD: A socially responsible company

PKP Intercity

Author: Anastazja Lach, Editor-in-Chief of Executive Magazine

Artykuł Report from the 14th edition of the Polish Infrastructure and Construction conference! pochodzi z serwisu Executive Club.

The 12th edition of the “Polish Infrastructure & Construction” conference took place on June 22nd at the Sheraton Grand Warsaw Hotel. During four discussion panels and five speeches, invited experts discussed the most important issues for the sector. The culmination of the event was the evening gala where the “Infrastructure & Construction Diamonds” were awarded to the most outstanding entities in the sector.

The event was inaugurated by a speech given by Jan Styliński, President of the Management Board, Polish Association of Construction Industry Employers, who discussed issues related to construction on a global scale. In his speech, the President pointed out that despite the dynamics of change in the Polish sector, there is still much to be achieved, and the industry faces many challenges. The approach to construction needs to be result-oriented, and the product itself needs to be taken care of secondarily. The speaker called for goal-oriented, innovative initiatives.

The speech was followed by the first panel discussion titled “Public Procurement Law” which was moderated by Agnieszka Chwiałkowska, co-managing partner of the public procurement practice at WKB Wierciński, Kwieciński, Baehr. The discussion was joined by Cezary Łysenko, Director of Infrastructure Construction, Budimex SA, Hubert Nowak, President, Public Procurement Office, Jan Styliński, President, Polish Association of Construction Employers, Bartosz Tokarski, Technical Practice Leader, EIB SA, Wojciech Trojanowski, Member of the Management Board, STRABAG, and Tomasz Żuchowski, Acting General Director of National Roads and Motorways. The experts discussed the amendment to the Public Procurement Law, commenting at the same time on the condition of the Polish construction industry. They pointed out the need to systematize the procurement process and put more emphasis on negotiation procedures. The speakers agreed that the key to the whole process was cooperation and working out an understanding between the interests of the ordering parties and the contractors.

After a short networking break, Ireneusz Borowski, Country Manager, Dassault Systèmes presented his presentation “Sustainable infrastructure – the world can be better”. In his speech he presented 3DExperience platform that allows for impact analysis – thanks to it we are able to see what we can achieve with the implemented project and what impact it will have on the environment. The technology allows us to study projects and look for the best solution.

Next, the time came for a case study titled “Legal actions for modification of the PPP contract”. Afterwards it was time for a case study “Investigating amendments to the PPP agreement before the court”, which was prepared by Prof. Marcin Lemkowski, Partner, Wardyński & Partners. The speaker, in line with the previous speakers, recognized that it is crucial to start negotiations, while calling for efficiency in the talks.

After a short break the second panel “Public-Private Partnership” started. The moderator of the discussion was Maciej Ziomek, Associate Partner in the Transaction Advisory Department, EY, and the panelists were: Grzegorz Kaczorowski, Director of the Office of Economic Development, Warsaw Metropolitan Council, Maciej Kopański, Investment Director, BaltCap, Tomasz Korczyński, Attorney at Law and Managing Counsel, Head of PPP/Infrastructure Practice, Dentons, Anna Łopaciuk, Fuel and Infrastructure Manager, City of Warsaw, Warsaw. The first subject discussed by the experts was PPP/Infrastructure, Tomasz Korczyczyk, Attorney at Law and Managing Counsel, Head of the PPP/Infrastructure Practice, Dentons, Anna Łopaciuk, Fuel and Infrastructure Manager in the Analysis and Sector Support Department, Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego, Adam Polinski, Member of the Board, Infrastructure Director, Unibep SA, and Łukasz Wypych, Investment Manager, GULERMAK Agir Sanayi Insaat ve Taahhut A.S. branch in Poland. The first topic taken up by the experts was the role and effectiveness of the private sector in the process of preparing the project. It was pointed out that balancing mechanisms should be introduced and efficiency was considered as the main indicator of contracting motivation. The experts also noted that the upcoming support measures will make all of Europe a construction site. Looking at contracting in the spirit of partnership remains a safeguard against confusion in the execution market. Among the final considerations of the speakers were the possibilities and solutions that could support the Polish PPP market.

After the break, the presentation entitled. “M3 – Stage I – Praga” was presented by Dr. Jerzy Lejk – President of the Board, General Director, Warsaw Metro. The speaker presented a plan for the expansion of the subway in Warsaw, taking into account factors such as population density and issued building permits. The coordinator presented the schedule of planned stages of the metro extension for 2021-2030 and listed the challenges in relation to legal requirements.

The speech preceded the third panel discussion ” The Railway Investments”, which was hosted by Jakub Majewski – Chairman of the Board, ProKolej Foundation. The following guests took part in the debate: Krzysztof Celiński – Chairman of the Board, Siemens Mobility, Leszek Hołda – Member of the Board, PKP Energetyka, Adam Laskowski – Member of the Board, PKP Intercity S.A., Jerzy Lejk – Chairman of the Board, General Director, Metro Warszawskie, Artur Martyniuk – Chairman of the Board, Polregio, Cezary Saganowski – Chairman of the Board, Egis Poland. Rafał Zgorzelski – Member of the Board, Polskie Koleje Państwowe SA. The leading topic of the discussion was a vision of sustainable Europe in the context of transport. The experts acknowledged that the renaissance of railroad transport has come, and with it dynamic changes. It was noted that the railroad has changed significantly and today, using its services, we can meet the needs in appropriate conditions, which results in greater interest among travelers. The panelists also discussed the 4th railroad pact, agreeing that competition always means more motivation. It was pointed out that in order to increase interest in public transport, it should be approached holistically. The speakers ended the discussion with the announcement of a broadly understood digitalization of the railroad infrastructure.

After the lunch break, case study “Digital management of buildings and energy” was presented by Radosław Łoś, Project Coordinator, APA Group. During the speech, the Nazca platform was presented, which enables data analysis and facility management. With the help of the system we are able to recognize threats and have digital control over buildings – the system allows to integrate the entire infrastructure in the city.

The fourth panel discussion was moderated by Prof. Bolesław Rok from the Department of Entrepreneurship and Business Ethics, Kozminski University. The experts of the last panel were: Dr. Andrzej Maciej Czapczuk, Vice President and General Director of F.B.I. TASBUD Capital Group and President of the Board of Directors of the Swedish law company TASBUD SVERIGE AB, Nicolas Dépret, President of the Board, Eurovia Polska, Łukasz Marcinkiewicz, General Director of LHE and Solutions for Infrastructure, Michał Sapota, President, HRE Investments, Jacek Siwiński, President of the Board, Velux Polska and Juliusz Tetzlaff, Director of the Department of Housing, Ministry of Development, Labour and Technology. The speakers considered the sector’s adaptation to climate challenges and tried to answer the question of how to target efforts to make energy efficient housing more widely available. Industry representatives also identified individual companies’ approaches to the climate crisis and discussed proposed strategies and solutions that are being used to address public expectations. The panel concluded by saying that we need a change in mentality and we need to appreciate technological solutions, gradually familiarizing them with users.

The discussion panels and speeches were followed by the evening gala of ” Infrastructure and Construction Diamonds”: statuettes awarded to companies and their representatives who stand out in the industry for their activities and achievements.

The competition part of the event was inaugurated by Jarosław Gowin, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Development, Labour and Technology. Before the prizes were handed out to the winners, other speakers included Anna Kornecka – Undersecretary of State in the Ministry of Development, Labour and Technology, Karolina Zdrodowska – acting Coordinator for Entrepreneurship and Social Dialogue, representing the City of Warsaw, and Father Andrzej Augustyński – Founder and Chairman of the Board, SIEMACHA Association. The winners of the competition included:

Realization of the Year:
(a)Volume Construction: BUDIMEX

b) Road Infrastructure: GULERMAK Agir Sanayi Insaat Ve Taahhut A.S. Polish Branch and Przedsbiorstwo Budowy Dróg i Mostów

c) Railway Infrastructure: TRAKCJA

Construction Company of the Year: UNIBEP

Technology Leader: STRABAG with TPA

Green Construction Leader: UNIHOUSE

Designer of the Year: EGIS Poland

Advisor of the Year: JDP DRAPAŁA & PARTNERS

Financing Entity of the Year:
BANK PEKAO S.A
KUKE

Personality of the Year:
Dariusz Blocher, President of the Board of Budimex SA (2009-2021), Member of The Supervisory Board, Budimex SA, Ferrovial Construction Director for Europe

Artykuł 12th edition of the “Polish Infrastructure & Construction” Conference pochodzi z serwisu Executive Club.

Artykuł 11th edition of Polish Infrastructure & Construction pochodzi z serwisu Executive Club.

The 10th anniversary edition of the unique Polish Infrastructure and Construction conference was held by Executive Club on February 20, 2019 at The Westin hotel in Warsaw. The event has enjoyed great interest among industry experts for many years. It was no different during this year’s edition. The highlight of the day-long conference was the official „Infrastructure and Construction Diamonds” awards gala, honoring the most outstanding entities in the industry.

The participants of the conference had the opportunity to listen to four discussion panels and two speeches given by special guests. The first discussion concerned new technologies and the modernization of railway infrastructure. The panel was moderated by dr inż. Andrzej Massel – Deputy Director for Research Projects and Studies, Railway Research Institute, whose panelists included: Jakub Adamski, Expert in the Transport & Infrastructure Team, Transaction Advisory, EY; Aleksandra Auleytner – Partner at Domański, Zakrzewski, Palinka; Arnold Bresch – Member of the Management Board of PKP Polskie Linie Kolejowe SA; Robert Dębecki – Director of the Bonds and Guarantees Department, KUKE SA; Jaroslaw Oniszczuk – Member of the Management Board of PKP Intercity SA; Bartosz Tokarski – Key Account Manager, EIB SA, and Kamil Wilde – Vice President of the Office of Rail Transport. The panelists emphasized, among others, the importance of the program for the modernization of rail infrastructure by 2023, estimated at almost PLN 50 billion. It has already helped increase the rolling stock of PKP Intercity and renovate numerous railway stations, while the carrier itself transported over 46 million people in 2018, which is an 80% increase compared to the previous year. The panelists also talked about the development of railway infrastructure on the routes of freight trains serving the ports in Gdynia, Gdańsk, and Świnoujście. Other important topics discussed in this thematic block included cyber security, the use of huge amounts of data, and insurance for planned investments.

Next on the agenda was a speech of a special guest – Geoff Haley, Global Executive Chairman, IPFA. The speaker presented and described the countries that can serve as models in the implementation of construction contracts: from negotiations to implementation. These include: Canada, Australia, the USA, and Great Britain. Among the key aspects of model cooperation the speaker mentioned limited bureaucracy, well-assessed contracts and lack room for significant negotiations, as well as developed cooperation between private and public entities. When it comes to threats to construction projects, the special guest pointed out conflicting interests of different political factions.

The second discussion panel focused on new challenges for road infrastructure, and was moderated by Włodzimierz Szymczak – former President of the European Council of Civil Engineers (ECCE). The panelists were: Marta Dziewulska – Director of Investment Support and Public Procurement Department, DSK Kancelaria; Grzegorz Kwieciński – Director of Insurance Risk Department, KUKE SA; Łukasz Marcinkiewicz – General Director, LH Engineering; Hubert Nowak – President of the Polish Public Procurement Office; Jerzy Wacławczyk – Director of Motorway and Large Projects, Strabag and Tomasz Żuchowski – Acting Director General of National Roads and Motorways. An interesting discussion regarding the valorization of contracts backwards started at the very beginning of the panel – is it possible at all and how should it be carried out? Łukasz Marcinkiewicz pointed out that the situation in infrastructure construction in Poland is characterized by uncertainty and a minimum dose of optimism. This uncertainty is caused by 3 elements: financial issues, i.e. profitable performance of contracts, fluctuations on the infrastructure market itself, which is unstable, and the lack of strategic plans reaching after the end of the EU perspective, i.e. after 2023. The minimum dose of optimism, according to the panelist, is that there is still a lot of demand in the area of infrastructure in Poland. Other topics discussed included methods of settling contracts, contractual penalties, minimum rates in contracts of mandate, and insurance for construction contracts.

The third discussion panel concerned opportunities and threats in the development of the Polish infrastructure. This thematic block was moderated by prof. Eugeniusz Koda – Dean of Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, who invited the following panelists: Leszek Drogosz – Director of the Infrastructure Department, City of Warsaw; Patryk Figiel – Head of Projects Practice, Linklaters; Przemysław Janiszewski – Vice President of the Management Board, Polimex-Mostostal SA; Paweł Średniawa – Vice President of the Management Board, PBDI SA; Marek Wiśniewski – President, ECM Energia SA, Michał Piąstka – Director of the Production Division, Mota-Engil Central Europe SA, and Geoff Haley – our previous speaker. The first topic discussed was public-private partnerships as one of the ways of financing investments and an alternative to EU funding. The panelists pointed out that the distribution of risk between partners and continuous dialogue between them is crucial when using this solution. The new public procurement law was considered a great opportunity and a step in the right direction. Among the most significant challenges the panelists listed the growing costs of workforce, which had been increasing by 20-30% year by year, and the shortage of qualified staff. Another threat mentioned in the panel was the increasing financial problems of construction companies, which may result in difficulties in obtaining contract insurance.

The event also featured a speech given by Włodzimierz Szymczak, participant of one of the previous panels, who discussed the challenges faced by the construction industry. He listed 17 strategic goals for sustainable development, 7 of which directly concern civil engineers. Among the global challenges he mentioned: dynamic population growth, unstoppable expansion of cities, climate change, degradation of the natural environment, excessive exploitation of natural resources, and digitalization.

The last panel was devoted to innovation in construction. It was moderated by Jan Styliński – President of the Polish Association of Construction Industry Employers, who started by presenting a report on the construction industry, which showed that it is the least digitized sector of the economy. The innovations which can provide construction with opportunities to develop include augmented reality, construction software, and data management systems. Another important issue which will have an impact on the efficiency and productivity of construction companies is BIM (Building Information Modeling), as it constitutes the basis for further digitalization of ongoing construction projects. The participants, including: Andrzej Maciej Czapczuk – Vice President and Managing Director of F.B.I. TASBUD SA; Michał Kanabrodzki – President of the Management Board, Profen; Dariusz Kostaniak – Member of the Management Board, Chief Investment Officer, Metro Warszawskie; Albert Krupiński – Director of the Digitization Department, Strabag, and Artur Met – Director in APA Innovative, APA Group, argued that innovation in the industry should not be limited just to BIM, but should also include the digitization of all process chains, both at the stage of offer acquisition and preparation, but also at the stage of the works themselves. The implementation of digitization is most profitable in those areas where the most mistakes are made. The experts jointly listed the key directions for the implementation of innovations which will have an impact on the construction market and real estate investments, including the use of artificial intelligence, drones, and robots.

After the discussions, filled with interesting exchanges and huge amounts of expert knowledge, there was time for the highlight of the day. It was the evening gala of „Infrastructure and Construction Diamonds”, honoring the companies and individuals who stand out in the industry with their unconventional and innovative activities. This year 16 diamonds were awarded in 8 categories.

Realization of the Year – residential/commercial/industrial buildings

Winner: Hochtief Polska – Praga Koneser Center, Warsaw

Distinction: Warbud SA – Hotel Europejski, Warsaw

Realization of the Year – road infrastructure

Winner: Metrostav SA – Bridge on Sobieszewo Island, Gdańsk

Distinction: Eurovia Polska SA – S3 freeway on the Legnica-Bolków section

Realization of the Year – rail infrastructure

Consortium of Budimex SA, STRABAG, and ZUE SA – Modernization of railway line no. 20 in Warsaw (Mała Linia Obwodowa Warszawy)

Construction Company of the Year

F.B.I. TASBUD SA

Technology Leader

Kajima Poland

Security Leader

Winner: Polimex-Mostostal SA

Distinction: PERI Polska

Sustainable Development Leader

Lafarge Cement SA

Advisor of the Year

Winner: Jara Drapała & Partners

Distinction: EIB SA

Financing Entity of the Year

Winner: PKO Bank Polski SA

Distinction: KUKE SA

Personality of the Industry

Piotr Kledzik, President of the Management Board of PORR SA

Artykuł The infrastructure and construction sector in the face of technological revolution pochodzi z serwisu Executive Club.

Four discussion panels, twenty eight speakers, almost seven hours of discussion, and eleven winners of our prestigious statuettes – this is just a brief description of the 9th edition of the “Polish Infrastructure and Construction” conference and the formal gala of “Infrastructure and Construction Diamonds”, which took place on February 8 at The Westing hotel in Warsaw.

The conference’s Guest of Honor was Marek Chodkiewicz, Undersecretary of State at the Ministry of Infrastructure, who gave a speech on the implementation of the National Roads Construction Program for the years 2014-2023. “We currently have over 3.5 thousand km of expressways and motorways, but we still have a lot of work ahead of us. Unfortunately, we will not be able to implement all tasks included in the program, so our priority is to connect the most important investments into a coherent road network” – said the Deputy Minister.

The main topic of the first panel was the future of road investments and the effectiveness of public–private partnerships. The panel was moderated by Anna Flaga-Martynek (WKB Wierciński, Kwieciński, Baehr law firm). Iwona Stępień-Kotlarek, Deputy General Director of National Roads and Motorways, began the panel with a strong statement that there are no companies on the Polish market which would be able to face the challenges associated with the implementation of very large contracts and organization of the entire investment process, hence the tendency to create consortia. Jerzy Wacławczyk (Strabag) talked about the cooperation between ordering parties and contractors, pointing out that, regardless of the public procurement law, these relationships are good and the implementation of a single European document for public procurement and the announced digitization will constitute a positive change facilitating cooperation. Mr. Wacławczyk was accompanied by Deputy Minister Chodkiewicz, who stated that digitization is a key condition for improving communication between contractors and ordering parties and facilitating the submission of tender offers. Paweł Lider (Eurovia Polska) talked about good practices for the effective modernization of infrastructure with the use of PPP, based on the example of investments implemented in Slovakia and Germany. “PPP is an immense opportunity for the development of infrastructural projects, and it seems necessary to increase the involvement of private capital” – said Andrzej Gienieczko (Egis Projects Polska). Krzysztof Mleczak (Exito Broker) mentioned bank and insurance guarantees as a form of securing against risk associated with the implementation of infrastructural investments. According to him, the insurance market constitutes a good alternative to banks. Robert Dębecki (KUKE) continued on the issue of financial security and pointed out that the number of bank and insurance guarantees is increasing – together with the growing awareness of their users, which results in a higher number of claims.

 Registered video material-Panel 1: Infrastructure today and tomorrow

The second discussion panel was devoted, among others, to the stability of contractors in the investment process. The debate was moderated by Wiktor Piwkowski (Polish Association of Construction Engineers and Technicians), who began by comparing the investment process to a pyramid with certain features of a wobbly house of cards, where the investor is at the top and contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers towards the bottom. The discussion also touched upon the implementation of PPP investment as an alternative to the diminishing EU funding, brought up by Stanisław Żmijan, Deputy Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee of Infrastructure. He emphasized that the atmosphere in the area of linear investments is not conducive to the implementation of PPP solutions. Mirosław Józefczuk (Warbud SA) stated that PPP is an excellent formula providing the state administration with access to the funds and know-how of private companies. “Investments are managed more effectively by private partners than public institutions” – said Mirosław Józefczuk.  Andrzej Czapczuk (F.B.I. TASBUD) noticed the problem associated with workforce deficiency, which may hamper the development of investments in the case of large contractors, while Piotr Staniszewski (Dentons) talked about the legal policy of the state and the need to create model regulations to standardize the investment and construction process. The issue of the continuity of investment implementation was taken up by Andrzej Puta (Euler Hermes), who claimed that attention should be paid to financial liquidity and creation of a mechanism which would help subcontractors get their remuneration quicker. “The main problem of the Polish construction market is financial liquidity, or lack thereof” – said Andrzej Puta.

Registered video material-Panel 2: The direction and dynamics of investment development

The extension of the second line of the Warsaw subway and the development and modernization of the railway network were the main topics of the third discussion panel, moderated by dr inż. Andrzej Żurkowski (Railway Research Institute). Renata Kaznowska, Deputy Mayor of Warsaw, stated that the mobility policy of Warsaw is focused on public transportation, which is currently used by approx. 57% of the city’s population. The actions of the City Hall associated with the modernization of the transportation network are aimed at increasing this share to 65%. Dr Libor Lochman (Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies) argued that railway networks are key for European public transportation. As a person frequently visiting Poland, he saw a definite improvement in the standard and quality of Polish rail transportation. Arnold Bresch (PKP Polskie Linie Kolejowe), talked about the risks associated with the implementation of the national railway program. He assured that PKP searches for optimum solutions to problems indicated by contractors well in advance. The extension of the second subway line was also mentioned by Dariusz Kostaniak (Metro Warszawskie), who explicitly stated that the subway is a complex investment requiring an enormous number of certificates, permits, and regulations, which is why its construction is taking so long. Jerzy Obrębski (Szybka Kolej Miejska) noticed that the development of SKM depends on the modernization of the national rail infrastructure, while Dariusz Grajda  (Koleje Mazowieckie) talked about increasing the capacity of trains by investing in double-deck trains.

Registered video material-Panel 3: Sustainable public transportation

The last panel, devoted to innovation in construction, was moderated by Prof. Leszek Rafalski (Road and Bridge Research Institute), who opened the discussion by comparing the expenses of selected countries on research and development, proving that Poland spends less than 1% of its GPD on R&D. Jean-Andre Barbosa (Future Pipe Industries) talked about the importance of innovation, sustainable development, as well as technological and qualitative progress, which will enable the implementation of eco-friendly products. According to Łukasz Marcinkiewicz (Lafarge, LH Engineering) market stability and cooperation enabling long-term investment planning constitute the basis for innovation. Only this can guarantee the completion of the entire process – from a laboratory idea to implementation. Jan Styliński (Polish Association of Construction Industry Employers, PZPB) said that cost is still the decisive factor on the construction market, which significantly limits opportunities for implementing innovations of any kind. “We need a redefinition of the price criterion and a long-term outlook on investment, from the point of view of the entire investment life-cycle” – said the President of PZPB. Leszek Sławiński (BOLIX) mentioned the challenges faced by manufacturers of construction chemicals. He pointed out that these include changing legislation and requirements associated with adjusting products to the pace of investment development, work time, and number of contracting companies. Waldemar Wójcik (Strabag) noticed that entrepreneurs on the construction market need to take into account a long-term perspective of product life. In his summary, the moderator argued that it is advisable to devote more funding to research associated with innovations in construction, because the industry is an important driving force for the economy.

The event also featured several speeches, including a presentation of a Guest of Honor, Dr Libor Lochman, on the influence of infrastructure on economic development. Tomasz Korczyński, Counsel at Dentons law firm, gave a speech on the practical, legal and organizational aspects of the implementation of PPP project in Poland, while the idea of municipal railways as an element of sustainable public transportation was the main topic analyzed by Dariusz Grajda, Member of the Management Board of Koleje Mazowieckie.

Registered video material-Panel 4: Innovation in construction – how to meet the expectations of tomorrow?

The event concluded with the “Infrastructure and Construction Diamonds” awards gala, which was formally opened by Prof. Michał Kleiber, Chairman of the Club’s Council, and Jan Styliński, Head of the Jury and President of the Management Board of the Polish Association of Construction Industry Employers. For the fourth time the Jury awarded and honored the best implementations, projects, and companies which significantly contributed to the development of the Polish infrastructure and construction. This year 11 diamonds were awarded in 9 categories.

WINNERS OF THE PRESTIGIOUS “INFRASTRUCTURE AND CONSTRUCTION DIAMONDS”:

REALIZATION OF THE YEAR: RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS – Mirbud – Gliwice Hall
REALIZATION OF THE YEAR: ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE – Strabag – Bridge on the S7 expressway in Kraków
REALIZATION OF THE YEAR: RAIL INFRASTRUCTURE – Budimex and Ferrovial Agroman syndicate –  Kraków Zabłocie – Kraków Krzemionki rail link
PROJECT OF THE YEAR – Studio Architektoniczne Kwadrat – Museum of the Second World War, Gdańsk
CONSTRUCTION COMPANY OF THE YEAR – Erbud

TECHNOLOGY LEADER – Strabag
SECURITY LEADER – Skanska

Organizer: Executive Club

Honorary Patronage: Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER), Polish Chamber of Civil Engineers, Polish Road Congress, Polish Association of Construction Industry Employers, Road and Bridge Research Institute, Polish Economic Chamber of Road Building, Polish Office of Rail Transportation, Polish Association of Construction Engineers and Technicians, Railway Research Institute

Main Partner: Dentons, Lafarge Holcim

Gold Partners: Future Pipe Industries, Strabag

Partners: BOLIX, Egis Projects Polska, ERBUD, Eurovia Polska, Euler Hermes, Exito Broker, IDS-BUD, Koleje Mazowieckie, KUKE, Metro Warszawskie, Szybka Kolej Miejska, Warbud, WKB Wierciński, Kwieciński, Baehr

Gala Partners: BASF Polska, Kajima Poland, Oknoplast, Palisander

Media Patrons: Biznes Alert, Budnet.pl, Budnews.pl, Budowa.org, Budownictwo.org, BudownictwoInżynieryjne.pl, Builder, Business&Prestige, CEO.com.pl, CoNaDrogach.pl, e-biurowce.pl, Edroga.pl, Express Przemysłowy, Forum Budowlane, Forum PPP – magazyn inwestycji publicznych, GeneralniWykonawcy.pl, Infrastruktura-Inframedia, Info Rail, Inteligentny Budynek, Kompas Inwestycji, Magazyn Kruszywa, Magazyn Autostrady, Materiały Budowlane, Magazyn Mosty, Nieruchomości.biz, Nowoczesne Budownictwo Inżynieryjne, PMR, Polish Market, Rynek Infrastruktury, Rynek Inwestycji, Via Expert, Warsaw Business Journal

Artykuł Infrastructure And Construction Diamonds Awarded For The Fourth Time! pochodzi z serwisu Executive Club.