Chronology
33 years of creation, management & communication
1991
Gremi is founded.
Gremi is founded on June 24th, 1991, by Grzegorz Hajdarowicz and Michał Sieradzan with headquarters located in a garage on Tatrzańska street in Cracow. The company name was derived from the founders’ names: Gre (Greg) and Mi (Michael).
Activity in the pharmaceutical sector launched.
Activity in pharmaceutical sector launched - wholesale of medicines to pharmacies; peat products from Dr Tołpa (produced by the Wrocław branch of the factory owned by Barbara Piasecka-Johnson).
1992
Successful investment in German vitamin product Fritt chewing gum.
Successful investment in German gum vitamin product Fritt (available until today) - A product of the company Ludwig Chocolate. Found in the square on Balicka street. Sold in trucks until a German manufacturer built a factory near Piła.
1993
New company headquarters at Bularnia Str. in Kraków.
December 1993 - Purchase of post-industrial buildings (0.5 ha) at 5 Bularnia Street from a bankrupt Krakow housing cooperative; renovation and adaptation for pharmaceutical wholesaling needs.
1994
Change in ownership and focus: Gremi Farm is born.
In 1994, Grzegorz Hajdarowicz and Michał Sieradzan parted ways. Subsequently, Gremi s.c. underwent a change in legal structure and was renamed Gremi Farm Grzegorz Hajdarowicz, shifting its focus to distributing medicines to wholesalers across Poland.
Partnership with leading US pharmaceutical producers Abbott Laboratories and Lenco Co.
Cooperation with leading US pharmaceutical producers Abbott Laboratories and Lenco Co. was established, involving the exclusive distribution of new-generation antibiotics like Klacid, Enteric, and AZT, the first drug to halt HIV incubation.
Investment at Półłanki Street in Kraków.
Acquisition of 14-15 hectares on Półłanki Street in Krakow, initially agricultural land, then converted and planned for development. The project was later sold at a profit. By 1996, an office, logistics, and industrial center was completed on the site.
Gremi Farm debuts in publishing with Twoje ZDROWIE magazine.
The company debuted in the publishing sector with "TWOJE Zdrowie" monthly magazine promoting a healthy lifestyle, achieving a circulation of 400,000 copies and becoming available in every pharmacy in Poland.
First investments in equity shares
1994 marked the company's initial foray into equity share investments.
1997
Purchase of an entire housing complex in Nowa Huta (Kraków)
Purchase of apartments on os. Teatralne in the Nowa Huta district of Krakow, together with the prosecutor's office building (1997) - these were later sold or rented. Revitalization of an office building (8 ha). Sale of apartments (50,000 square meters) to over 200 families for 10% of the value, earning a significant profit on usable space; concluded in 2000. Purchase and renovation of decapitalized office space, later leased to two bank branches and Telepizza under 10-year agreements. Sale of the entire complex to a private investor, renovation, rental, and subsequent sale of the building to Comarch. Investment in shops and 232 apartments.
Purchase of shares of stock exchange companies.
Investments were made in various non-pharmaceutical business projects, including the purchase of shares of stock exchange companies.
1998
Hotel Orzeł
Revitalization of Hotel ORZEŁ Holiday Home, a 2-hectare property near the Tatra Mountains in Kościelisko.
Acquisition of SPOMASZ S.A.
Established in 1919, SPOMASZ S.A. is a manufacturer of machinery and equipment for the food industry (e.g., fruit grinders, egg counters), power plants, and steelworks (e.g., electrolyzers).
Acquisition of TELPOD S.A.
Established in 1946, TELPOD S.A. is a manufacturer of electronic elements, subassemblies, and components, including resistors, transistors, capacitors, and integrated circuits.
Further stock shares acquisitions.
Investments were made in various pharmaceutical business projects.
1999
Investment in KFAP
KFAP (Krakowska Fabryka Aparatów Pomiarowych) established in 1922 - a high-technology investment and restructuring of a manufacturer of control and measurement equipment.
2000
Gremi exits pharma and rebrands as Grupa KCI
In 2000, the pharmaceutical business was discontinued, leading the company to commence further investments under the banner of Grupa KCI (Krakow Investment Center).
Acquisition of Drukarnia Wydawnicza im. W.L. Anczyca in Krakow
Founded in 1870, it is one of the oldest book printing houses in Poland, having won many prestigious awards throughout its 150-year history.
Acquisition of WSK Krakow S.A.
Founded in 1951 in Krakow, the company primarily manufactures engine components for the aerospace, military, railroad, agricultural, and automotive industries, as well as cooling and heating systems for various sectors.
Cooling module for the Sokół helicopter, manufactured by the WSK Kraków S.A.
Acquisition of DRAGMOR in Szczecin.
Purchase of the dredging company DRAGMOR in Szczecin, active in international markets such as Lithuania and Kazakhstan, and involved in constructing the Aktau port on the Caspian Sea.
2002
Evolution into a Complex Capital Group
Gremi evolved from a distribution company into a complex capital group. This transformation included the establishment of several development companies within the KCI Group, expanding its scope and influence.
Establishment of Gremi Film Production
Gremi Film Production was established, marking the company's entry into the film industry. Over the years, it produced seven critically acclaimed films, including "Angel In Love" (2005) and "City Island" (2010).
Investment in KFAP SINAKE
Gremi has invested in KFAP SINAKE, a company specializing in smart card-based identification systems. Notable projects include the implementation of over 5 million patient identification cards for the healthcare system in the Silesian province and a fully integrated voting system for the Polish parliament.
2003
Gremi moves to Schindler’s Factory
Schindler's factory gate on Lipowa Street, Krakow
In 2003, Gremi relocated its headquarters to the historic Emalia Cookware Factory at 4 Lipowa Street in Zabłocie, an industrial zone in central Krakow. The land and buildings were acquired with TELPOD, established in 1937 by Oscar Schindler and featured in Spielberg's 'Schindler’s List'. Recognizing a prime business opportunity, Grzegorz Hajdarowicz foresaw the potential of Zabłocie and initiated its regeneration, predicting a rise in land prices and demand. His vision and strategic actions laid the groundwork for the area's revitalization, which began to materialize in the following years.
Image from the movie Schindler's List
That year, Grzegorz Hajdarowicz founded the Oscar Schindler Foundation, marking the start of a new chapter for the area. His vision to transform the factory into a cultural hub led to the establishment of the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCAK) and the Frycz Modrzewski Academy's higher education institute, rejuvenating the district with a focus on unconventional art. Additionally, the Historical Museum of the City of Cracow opened a branch here, featuring an exhibition on the German occupation of the city from 1939–1945.
Museum of Contemporary Art MOCAK
Conclusion of investment at Gabrieli Zapolskiej Street in Kraków.
The investment project at Gabrieli Zapolskiej Street in Krakow (1999-2003) concluded successfully, featuring the KFAP headquarters (6.5 ha / 100,000 square meters), Building H (Ahold's Central Europe headquarters), and an additional investment of 51,000 square meters for converting land use from industrial to service and residential. Zoning permits were obtained, the estate concept was developed, and additional road communication was established, enabling the profitable sale of the land.
Residential estate at Gabrieli Zapolskiej Street in Kraków
2004
Investment in the Development of Geothermal Heat Pump Heating Systems
Spin-off of Vatra SA to continue the research and production activities initially carried out by WSK Kraków, focusing on developing geothermal heat pump heating systems.
2005
Creation of the concept for the Estrela Project in Brazil.
The search for the Estrela project location in Brazil was conducted between 2005 and 2007, exploring areas in Bahia, Ceara, Maranhao, and Rio Grande do Norte. Finally, Fazenda Estrela near Baia Formosa in Rio Grande do Norte was identified as the ideal site — an extraordinary property spanning 2,347 hectares of land with coconut palm cultivation and 6.5 kilometers of beachfront. DRAGMOR, a company within the KCI Group, began efforts to prepare the land purchase contract.
Gremi Film Production – Angel in Love.
2006
Investment in Kamienice Herbowe at Poznańska Street
Investment in Kamienice Herbowe at Poznańska Street
Krakowskie Kamienice Herbowe at Poznańska Street
Gremi Film Production – The Underneath: A Sensual Obsession.
2007
Estrela Project Location Found in Brazil
The search for the Estrela project location in Brazil was conducted between 2005 and 2007, exploring areas in Bahia, Ceara, Maranhao, and Rio Grande do Norte. Finally, Fazenda Estrela near Baia Formosa in Rio Grande do Norte was identified as the ideal site — an extraordinary property spanning 2,347 hectares of land with coconut palm cultivation and 6.5 kilometers of beachfront. DRAGMOR, a company within the KCI Group, began efforts to prepare the land purchase contract.
Gremi Film Production – Hania; Nightwatching; Carmo.
2008
Investments in the Furniture Sector
In 2008, Gremi concluded significant investments in the furniture sector, which began in the early 2000s. These investments included:
- ZFM (Zielonogórskie Fabryki Mebli): Enhancing production capabilities.
- OFM (Opolskie Fabryki Mebli): Diversifying product offerings.
- WMAH (Wytwórnia Mebli Artystycznych w Henrykowie): It focuses on stylized art furniture.
These acquisitions resulted in a combined turnover of 200 million PLN and provided employment to hundreds, marking a period of substantial growth and diversification for Gremi.
Completion of Housing Development in Goleniów, Szczecin
The development of a 10-hectare area intended for single-family housing in Goleniów, Szczecin, was successfully concluded.
2009
Rebranding to GREMI Group
In 2009, the KCI Group was rebranded as the GREMI Group, marking the start of operations under the new name.
Establishment of National Investment Fund JUPITER S.A.
The National Investment Fund JUPITER S.A. was established in 2009, further expanding GREMI Group's investment portfolio.
Acquisition of Ponar Wadowice Holding
In 2009, GREMI Group acquired Ponar Wadowice and its associated assets, including Nadwiślańskie residential estate in Warsaw, enhancing its investment holdings.
Nadwiślańskie residential estate in Warsaw
Purchase of Fazenda Estrela in Brazil
GREMI Group launched an investment in Fazenda Estrela, Baia Formosa, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. DRAGMOR acquired a former coconut farm with a beautiful Atlantic beachfront. After years of dedicated efforts, the company secured permits to construct hotels and a technology park, with plans to develop a paradise resort.
First investments in the media sector
In 2009, GREMI Group made its first investments in the media sector by acquiring the "Przekrój" weekly and "Sukces" monthly. "Przekrój" has a rich history and has been a significant publication in the Polish press scene, known for its cultural and intellectual content.
2010
In 2008, Gremi began producing its first U.S. project with a Hollywood cast. City Island, directed by Raymond De Felitta, starring Andy Garcia, with music composed by Academy Award winner Jan A.P. Kaczmarek. The film won the Heineken Audience Award at the 2009 Tribeca Film Festival in New York. The movie had its U.S. premiere in 2010.
Initiation of FINC – International Film Festival in Baia Formosa.
Grzegorz Hajdarowicz initiated FINC - International Film Festival in Baía Formosa, an open-air festival of independent cinema held annually in November. Since its first edition, FINC has been recognized as one of the most esteemed film festivals in northeastern Brazil, enjoying public sector support, with 14 editions organized by 2023.
2011
Acquisition of Presspublica – Poland’s leading media company ("Rzeczpospolita" & "Parkiet").
In 2011, Gremi Media acquired Presspublica, Poland's leading media company, known for its influential publications such as "Rzeczpospolita" and "Parkiet". "Rzeczpospolita" is Poland's most influential newspaper, comparable to Britain's "Financial Times". Presspublica also publishes "Życie Warszawy" and manages several internet portals, along with the monthly "Uważam Rze Historia" and the business daily "Parkiet". This acquisition marked a significant expansion of Gremi Media's portfolio.
History of Rzeczpospolita & Presspublica
"Rzeczpospolita" first published in 1920, originally served as an organ of the conservative Christian-National Party. In 1982, it was reissued in a new format as a government organ of the Polish People's Republic. Between 1989 and 1990, "Rzeczpospolita" transitioned to an independent daily, leading to the founding of Presspublica, a Polish-French company that became its owner. In 1996, ORKLA Press Polska acquired 51% of Presspublica shares, with the remaining 49% retained by the State Publishing Company "Rzeczpospolita." In 2005-2006, Presspublica expanded its portfolio by acquiring "Parkiet" daily, a newspaper focused on the stock market and investors. During this period, Mecom purchased 51% of Presspublica shares, further solidifying its influence in the Polish media landscape.
In June 2011, an agreement was reached for Gremi Media to purchase 51% of shares in Presspublica Sp. z o.o. from the British media company Mecom Group. In October 2011, an agreement was made to buy the remaining 49% of Presspublica Sp. z o.o. shares from PWR, the State Treasury. This included obtaining consent from the Office of Competition and Consumer Protection and finalizing the transaction, leading to Gremi Media's operational control over the company.
2012
Gremi Group Consolidation with Focus on Media and Real Estate
In 2012, Gremi Group concentrated on consolidating its operations with a focus on the media and real estate sectors, marking a strategic shift in its business approach.
Gremi Media Workforce Restructuring and New Establishments
In February-March 2012, Gremi Media initiated a substantial restructuring process, reducing its workforce by almost 60%, from 1,000 to approximately 430 employees. This period also saw the establishment of Gremi Business Communication, further streamlining and strengthening the company's media operations.
Acquisition of "Bloomberg Businessweek Polska"
Gremi Media acquired the Polish edition of "Bloomberg Businessweek" under a license agreement with Bloomberg L.P., expanding its media portfolio.
2014
Pioneering New Internet Strategy in the Media Sector
Gremi Media launched Poland's first metric paywall on the "rp.pl" website, pioneering new revenue models in digital media. This innovation marked a significant step in the company's digital strategy, setting a precedent in the Polish media landscape.
2015
Expanding Influence
While 2015 saw fewer major announcements, it was a year of foundational work that set the stage for future growth. During April and May 2015, Gremi Media acquired shares in MM Conferences, enhancing its presence in the events and conferences sector. This acquisition was part of the broader strategy to diversify and strengthen the company's media and communication capabilities.
2016
Restructuring of Gremi Group
Gremi Group underwent significant restructuring, reducing the number of entities from 35 (as of March 2013) to 12. This consolidation aimed to streamline operations and enhance efficiency across the organization.
Restructuring and Innovations in Gremi Media
In 2016, Gremi Media introduced "Rzeczpospolita's" fourth pillar, "Życie Regionów," and acquired a majority stake in the PR agency Compress S.A., along with launching Kancelaria RP. This period marked significant changes aimed at creating a platform for further business development.
In March 2016, Gremi Media launched Rzeczpospolita TV, featuring three programs from the #RzeczO series and "Prosto z Parkietu." In June, the company established the Institute of Economic Thought and initiated the "Nieruchomości w Rzeczpospolitej" project as a precursor to Gremi Real Estate and the "Time for Polska" project, signaling the start of Gremi International. By October 2016, Gremi Media had introduced linear television on rp.pl, further expanding its digital and broadcast offerings.
2017
Gremi Media Debuts on NewConnect
In 2017, Gremi Media S.A. made its debut on the NewConnect market of the Warsaw Stock Exchange with an initial capitalization of EUR 60 million. This move marked a significant milestone in the company's growth and expansion in the media sector.
Six Senses Agreement for Eco Estrela Project
The search for an operator for the Eco Estrela project concluded, resulting in the signing of agreements with Six Senses for the Six Senses Formosa Bay. This project represents a significant investment in luxury hospitality and sustainable development in Brazil.
Completion of Wrocławska Street Real Estate Projects
Gremi Group successfully completed the commercialization of its real estate projects on Wrocławska Street in Kraków. This development included residential and service areas, contributing to the urban development of the city.
2018
Launch of Alvernia Planet Project
2017 also saw the launch of the Alvernia Planet project, an investment in VR/AR technology. This project includes the development of a modern film and sound recording studio, with plans for a virtual reality-based amusement park. The establishment of an education and new technology center in Alwernia, located between Kraków and Katowice, further underscores Gremi's commitment to innovation and technological advancement.
Final Installation License for Eco Estrela Project
Gremi Group obtained the final Installation License from the Environmental Agency of the State of RN, Brazil. This license allowed the commencement of construction for the Eco Estrela project, marking a critical step forward in the development of this significant hospitality initiative.
2019
Tropical Burn Festival
In June 2019, Gremi organized the Tropical Burn Festival at its Brazilian Fazenda Estrela property. Inspired by the original Burning Man festival in San Francisco, Tropical Burn is Brazil's iteration of this global phenomenon. The festival featured art installations, music, and communal activities, fostering a vibrant atmosphere of self-expression and creativity. The event aligned with Gremi's mission to promote cultural and creative experiences, drawing participants into a unique community dedicated to these values.
Release of Safe Inside by Gremi Film Production
In 2019, Gremi Film Production released "Safe Inside," adding to the company's portfolio of critically acclaimed films.
2020
Outbreak of the Covid-19 Pandemic
The Covid-19 pandemic, which began in 2020, had a profound impact on global economies and industries. Gremi Group, like many other companies, faced significant challenges due to the restrictions and uncertainties brought about by the pandemic.
Completion of Zabłocie / Romanowicza Street Real Estate Projects
In 2020, Gremi Group completed the commercialization of its real estate projects in Zabłocie and Romanowicza Street, Kraków. This development included significant projects like the Telpod, Schindler's Factory Museum, Museum of Contemporary Art, and Gremi Business Park, revitalizing the district and creating a vibrant urban area.
2021
Creation of Liberfor.com
Gremi launched Liberfor.com, an online club for free thinkers, fostering a community of intellectual and creative exchange.
Gremi's 30th Anniversary
In 2021, Gremi celebrated its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of growth and innovation.
Strategic Partnership with Pluralis B.V.
Gremi Media S.A. acquired a strategic partner, Pluralis B.V., enhancing its media influence and capabilities.
2023
Inauguration of Arteco Camp
Gremi inaugurated Arteco Camp, a new initiative to further its cultural and ecological goals, located at its property in Brazil. Arteco Camp is a unique eco-village concept that blends sustainable living with artistic and educational activities. It serves as a hub for cultural events, workshops, and environmental conservation efforts, creating a vibrant community dedicated to innovation and ecological awareness. Notable events include art exhibitions, music festivals, and educational programs aimed at promoting sustainability and creativity.
Estrela Project: New Concept and Strategy
The Estrela project underwent a rebranding, adopting a new concept and strategy focused on Arteco Camp and Aventora, along with a 12-year development plan and the regeneration of Mata Atlantica.
2024
Land Development Achievements
By 2024, Gremi Group had developed approximately 100 hectares of land, with the Usable Square Footage (USF) / Gross Leasable Area (GLA) totaling around 300,000. This milestone highlights Gremi's significant contributions to real estate development.
Media and Online Services Expansion
Gremi Media's publications and digital content, including 540 press titles, e-books, and audiobooks, reached over 3 million readers through its platform www.e-kiosk.pl. Pluralis B.V. increased its stake in Gremi Media to 52%, and Gremi Media Online services reached over 7 million users in December 2023. "Rzeczpospolita" remained the most quoted news source in the Polish press market.
New Initiatives
KCI S.A. established the Gremi Global Limited, furthering its investment and development efforts.