13.05.2022
In this climate of uncertainty, the construction and real estate sectors, like other important sectors of the economy, are in crisis of their own, emphasizes Marios L. Pontikis, CEO of ATLAS PANTOU.
Mr. Pontikis states that the war in Ukraine has opened new wounds in the economies of the whole world, the fragile economy of our country, as he characterizes it, is once again shaking with shocks.
As he notes, the increase in construction costs, which is a high risk for construction companies and land managers, is expected to lead to difficulties in starting new projects, delays in the completion of ongoing projects, possible shortages of some materials or long waiting times for their receipt and in some cases, the need to provide a loan for the completion or start of certain construction projects.
How is the land management/construction sector in which you work?
With the onset of the pandemic, a very significant increase in prices for building materials began to be recorded not only in Cyprus, but also in the world. Rising fuel costs around the world also had a negative impact, which, in turn, contributed to a further increase in the cost of building materials.
All of the above is expected to put pressure on a slowdown in construction activity. Rising construction costs, which undoubtedly pose a high risk for construction companies and land surveyors, are expected to lead to difficulties in starting new projects, delays in completing ongoing projects, possible shortages of certain materials or long waiting times for them, and in some cases, the need to extend the loan to complete or start certain construction projects.
How much did the coronavirus pandemic and the war in Ukraine affect your plans?
The war opened new wounds in the economies of the whole world, once again shook the vulnerable economy of our country with shocks. The increase in the amount of materials, fuel and freight, as well as the timing of the delivery of materials from abroad, unfortunately, has hurt an economy already suffering from the corona virus.
Therefore, we again face new serious challenges that we must collectively solve as an economy, as departments and as a state.
What is your competitive advantage and where is today’s competition taking you?
I consider our long history and our projects as our competitive advantage. The clarity of goals we set over time, combined with respect for our employees, partners and customers, are our main strengths.
What are your immediate goals?
We strive to maintain a leading position in our field, as well as to diversify our activities in various sectors. Our designs are dynamic and are regularly reviewed in line with developments in the construction sector, political, economic, social and technological environment.
Our eternal and unwavering goal is the constant improvement of our services to meet the needs of our customers, the constant search for new challenges for improvement in the area in which we operate.
