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Wroclaw and Lower Silesia Recognized in Cannes. AIRA and Mercedes-Benz Investments Awarded
Lower Silesia has come into the spotlight during one of the most important investment events in Europe. At the International Property and Investment Fair in Cannes, two projects from the region were honored – AIRA’s heat pump factory in Wrocław and the expansion project of the Mercedes-Benz plant in Jawor. Both initiatives were included among the most influential investment projects in Europe in the Investment Impact Awards 2026 competition.
The International Property and Investment Fair in Cannes is one of the most important events in the global real estate and investment sector. It brings together leading developers, investors, architects, funds, and representatives of cities to discuss the future of the market, new projects, and global urban trends. This year Wrocław is once again presenting its stand, showcasing the investment potential of the capital of Lower Silesia and the entire region.
Lower Silesian companies receive awards
During this year’s edition, the prestigious Investment Impact Awards (IIA) 2026 were presented. The awards are granted by fDi Intelligence and recognize investment projects across Europe with the greatest transformational potential – economically, socially, and technologically.
Only a small number of projects from Poland made it to the finalists’ list this year, as most candidates came from other European countries. Wrocław and Lower Silesia can boast two investments shortlisted among the finalists.
Wrocław heat pumps among Europe’s leaders
Among the 10 most influential operational mid-sized projects in Europe is AIRA’s factory in Wrocław. The new plant was built on the site of the former Volvo factory and has launched fully modern production of low-emission heat pumps.
Thanks to access to a highly skilled workforce and proximity to technical universities, AIRA can rapidly expand its production and increase exports of advanced heating technologies while creating jobs and supporting the local economy.
“We are honored to receive this award in the fDi Intelligence competition and to take 5th place in the mid-sized investment category. This is a particularly important moment for us, as it is the first award granted to our Aira 1 heat pump factory in Wrocław – a place we have been building from the very beginning with a long-term impact on Europe’s energy transition in mind.”
Tomasz Wcisło, Aira Chief Operations Officer
Confirmation of a vision for modern technologies
As Tomasz Wcisło explains, Aira is still a relatively new company on the market – it began operations in 2022. For this reason, the distinction is seen as confirmation that its vision for developing modern, sustainable home heating technologies truly matters – both for homeowners and for the broader economy.
“It proves that investing in innovative, environmentally friendly solutions can go hand in hand with industrial development, innovation, the creation of high-quality jobs, and the strengthening of production capacity within the European Union. We believe that the growth of our factory will provide another boost for the entire Wrocław region, strengthening its position as one of Europe’s centers of modern manufacturing.”
Tomasz Wcisło
Mercedes-Benz among Europe’s TOP 10 megaprojects
The Mercedes-Benz plant in Jawor was also listed among the 10 most influential megaprojects announced in Europe. The facility will produce a next-generation electric van based on the VAN.EA platform. The investment benefits from modern infrastructure and a strategic location near the A4 motorway, as well as support from local institutions. The project increases Mercedes-Benz’s production capacity in Europe, creates highly specialized jobs, and operates fully in line with sustainability principles.
Mercedes-Benz Manufacturing Poland has been producing engines in Jawor since 2019 and batteries since 2020.
“The factory already sets standards for modern production, and the planned expansion will raise them even further. The Polish Mercedes-Benz Vans plant will become one of the most advanced facilities in the global network, operating with CO₂-neutral production and partially generating its own energy. We are talking about a huge step forward in sustainable and flexible manufacturing.”
Sebastian Streuff, Mercedes-Benz Vans Project Manager in Jawor
Lower Silesia strengthens its position on Europe’s investment map
The distinctions awarded to AIRA and Mercedes-Benz show that Wrocław and Lower Silesia are successfully entering the European investment stage.
“It is a great satisfaction to see investments carried out in our region being ranked among the most influential projects in Europe. AIRA and Mercedes-Benz demonstrate how dynamically Lower Silesia is developing – in terms of innovation, modern manufacturing, and job creation. These are examples of investments that place our region on the European map as a center of modern industry and green transformation.”
Michał Młyńczak, Deputy Mayor of Wrocław
During this year’s International Property and Investment Fair in Cannes, the partners of Wrocław are ALSTAL, Archicom, and the Marshal’s Office of the Lower Silesian Voivodeship. Together they have an opportunity to build relationships with investors, present local opportunities, and strengthen the region’s position within the international business network.