BBJ: Drees & Sommer provides solutions, implements them, or both. What are your main fields of operation globally and, more specifically, in Hungary?

Ákos Koloszár: We are active in three main clusters, namely real estate, industry, and infrastructure. This applies globally, but also here in Hungary. Locally, our strongest focus has been on the automotive industry and logistics, where we support clients with both consulting and implementation services, not only in the production field but also in managing their real estate assets, including expansions, new-builds, and brownfield developments. In the real estate sector, we work with a wide range of clients across commercial properties, hospitality, retail, and financial institutions. Our key advantage is the international scope, combined with a strong local team that brings together deep market knowledge and expertise from Germany, Austria, and other international locations.

BBJ: The consultancy operates internationally, with 6,500 employees based in more than 70 locations, supporting domestic and foreign companies. When did you begin operations in Budapest, and what is the size of your Hungarian footprint today?

ÁK: Our Budapest office was launched back in 1997, when we supported several major international brands with their expansion into the Hungarian market, primarily in the automotive and logistics sectors. Over the years, we have managed to broaden our scope quite significantly and have evolved into a go-to partner for both global players seeking high international standards and local companies aiming to integrate into the global ecosystem. We work closely with our expert teams in Austria and also collaborate extensively across the CEE region, supporting clients with operations in multiple countries. This way, we ensure consistent quality and strategic alignment with the parent company.

BBJ: What were your Hungarian business figures for 2024, and how does this compare globally? What are some of the more significant projects you have worked on locally?

ÁK: I can comment only on the global figures: in 2024, group sales exceeded EUR 960 million, with more than 6,800 construction projects realized worldwide. In Hungary, we supported several key automotive manufacturers with the development of new production sites as well as refurbishment projects. We also continued to expand our footprint in project management within the logistics sector, and strengthened our position in real estate consulting, working with clients across various asset classes.

BBJ: Beyond the obvious answer of the language, what are the most challenging aspects of working in Hungary?

ÁK: Actually, language is not an issue. We have local colleagues who often have work experience from Germany or Austria, which enables us to support German- or English-speaking clients very easily. What can be more demanding, however, is that the Hungarian market sometimes requires a very specific service portfolio for certain projects. However, here, we can draw on tried-and-tested solutions from similar international projects and tailor them to fit the local regulatory environment and expectations.

BBJ: On your website, Drees & Sommer is described as a pioneer in driving sustainability and digitalization. Can you give us some examples of how?

ÁK: Yes, sure. Sustainability and digitalization are not just buzzwords for us; they’re embedded in how we think, plan, and then also deliver projects. One of the most exciting developments in sustainability is our work in “urban mining.” This concept is changing the way we approach construction and demolition. Instead of tearing down buildings and discarding materials, we focus on recovering and reusing valuable resources from existing structures. It’s a simple idea with enormous potential. A great example is the ZIN project in Brussels, developed by our Belgian client Befimmo. It’s one of the most significant urban mining initiatives in Europe, covering more than 110,000 sqm. In this single project, over 1,000 tonnes of materials, including raised flooring, partitions, insulation, and roof tiles, were reused, and 140 tonnes were upcycled. It’s a great demonstration of how circular thinking can be applied at scale.

On the digitalization side, we’ve developed a range of our own tools and applications to support smarter, more efficient construction and building processes. From AI-driven data flow management to digital real estate consulting, we usually help clients navigate the overall complexity of modern buildings and infrastructure. But for us, digitalization is never about technology for its own sake. A smart building is not just the number of sensors or IoT devices. It’s about creating real value for its users, for example, through intelligent parking systems, smart building controls, booking solutions for workplaces, or electric vehicles.

BBJ: What do you see as the most significant trends in the real estate, infrastructure and industrial markets? Are all evident in Hungary?

ÁK: Across all sectors where we operate, we’re seeing a clear and consistent shift toward greater efficiency and added value. The pressure to reduce costs is growing, as well as the need to ensure that projects are future-proof. This means adaptable, sustainable, and digitally enabled. This is something we experience very clearly in Hungary as well, where the strong presence of international investors brings high expectations for quality and long-term viability.

In the industrial sector, key roles are played by the growth of e-commerce, changes in supply chain strategies, and rapid technological advancements. We continue to see strong demand for logistics hubs and flexible industrial spaces. Trends such as nearshoring and reshoring, which bring production closer to consumer markets, are gaining momentum across Europe, and Hungary is no exception.

BBJ: What is next for Drees & Sommer locally? Are there any plans to move into new sectors?

ÁK: Our local focus remains on industry and real estate, where we have built strong expertise. At the same time, I see great potential in infrastructure projects, especially in the transport and energy sectors. These areas are becoming increasingly important in the context of urban development, climate goals, and the energy transition.

This article was first published in the Budapest Business Journal print issue of October 17, 2025.