City Center development in Frankfurt

Our Frankfurt Chamber of Industry and Commerce President, Ulrich Caspar, recently hosted an informative event. A round table discussion between local politicians and business representatives focused on the future of Frankfurt's city center.

The presented study "Vital City Centers 2024" shows that Frankfurt remains an attractive shopping location, especially for visitors from the surrounding area. Nevertheless, there is still a need for action. Visitors criticize high parking fees (77%) and traffic congestion (69%) as obstacles to a visit to the city center. Aspects such as cleanliness, safety, and dealing with vacancies were also rated critically.

I was there in person and had the opportunity to talk to Ulrich Caspar. The event made it clear to me again how important a holistic strategy is for inner-city development. There should be a greater focus on a mix of retail, gastronomy, culture, leisure, and residential. Based on my discussions with investors, the mixed-use topic is central to many market participants. This will strengthen the attractiveness and resilience of real estate locations in the long term. The quality of life in Frankfurt's city center should also be enhanced through more green spaces and attractive public areas.

Frankfurt's city center has the potential to be a lively meeting place. Investors can leverage the potential of the city center. Politics, business and urban society must create the necessary framework conditions for this.

Ronny Kazyska

Ronny Kazyska & Ulrich Caspar (IHK Frankfurt am Main)