Werkarena in Basel: Commercial space empty - what is behind it?

In the Werkarena in Basel, there is uncertainty regarding the future use of the areas. Customs agencies are currently the few tenants in the complex building, while the basic floor is empty with 2300 square meters, although it is stated on the website as "rented". In addition, the top three floors that vary between 2600 and 3400 square meters are still available. The Werkarena was originally intended as a location for commercial and craft businesses, but there are currently no corresponding companies on site.

The trade association, under the direction of Gabriel Barell, had previously put pressure on the government because the city was perceived as "industrial". Barell said that too few commercial space is intended in the planned Lysbüchel area. It became clear that both the trade association and co -owner Steiner AG had difficulty finding larger anchor tenants. A year ago, the trade association withdrew discreetly and has not commented on the situation since then. The construction planning of the Werkarena was in the hands of Zurich's Steiner AG, which also holds a minority stake. Last June, Steiner AG had to appear at the bankruptcy judge due to a liquidity bottleneck and is now planning to concentrate on real estate development without continued to appear as a general contractor. This decision could accelerate the end of Steiner AG, such as bajour reported.

construction and development of the Werkarena

The construction work on the Werkarena in North Basel started in autumn 2019, and the basic structure of the new buildings has already been completed. A topping-out ceremony took place on March 26, 2021. The project is developed and implemented by Steiner AG, a leading project developer and general contractor in Switzerland. An opening of the complex was planned in autumn 2021, which should offer flexible rooms for light industry, logistics and offices. The location near the French border enables good access to both the Basel city center and the EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse. There is also a direct access to the A3 motorway.

The Werkarena should address various companies and start-ups by providing joint office space, meeting and conference rooms. An innovative ramp system ensures easy access from commercial vehicles to the commercial space. The construction project received support from several institutions such as the Basel-Stadt trade association, Immobilien Basel-Stadt and the Business Parc Reinach, and focuses on sustainable location development and high quality of life. Steiner AG has already gained experience with similar projects, such as Steiner Development

The Werkarena remains in the middle of challenges in the field of tenant acquisition and the strategic orientation of Steiner AG. The outcome of the situation is eagerly awaited.