Expanding Small Business Units (SBU): Why Feasibility is the Foundation of Success

When expanding Small Business Units (SBUs) in a country, it’s tempting to focus on location, design concepts, or tenant mix. Yet, one of the most decisive steps happens long before construction begins: the feasibility study. This early-phase process sets the stage for everything that follows—helping developers, architects, and investors avoid costly surprises and ensure each project is delivered on time, within budget, and to regulatory standards.

Poland is a dynamic market, full of opportunity for flexible business spaces. But it’s also a landscape where local authorities, permitting frameworks, and technical challenges can make or break a project. That’s why feasibility is not a box to tick—it’s the foundation of long-term success.

Understanding Unit “Conditions”

Not all spaces are created equal. When developers or tenants take possession of a unit, its starting condition has a direct impact on costs, timelines, and risk. Units are typically handed over in one of four states:

• Shell & Core – A bare unit with no services or facilities, requiring full installation.

• Shell & Core + – A bare unit with partial facilities, such as HVAC.

• White Box – An existing retail unit (non-fashion) that still requires investment to operate effectively (e.g., furniture, electronics).

• White Box + – A former fashion retail unit needing only minimal upgrades to reopen (e.g., ZARA, H&M).

Recognizing these categories helps all stakeholders set realistic expectations at the start.

The Feasibility Process: What Really Matters

A well-structured feasibility study combines technical, regulatory, and financial analysis into one unified review. Here’s what it should include:

1. Internal Review

An architect visits the site to evaluate what can be reused and repurposed. This includes back-of-house areas, HVAC systems, fire detection, delivery access, and structural elements. The aim is simple: reduce capex by preserving what already works.

2. Store Measurements

Clear calculations of net area, sales vs. back-of-house (typically an 80/20 split), and stockroom needs create the backbone of planning. Efficient layouts allow for optimal sales areas without compromising operational flow.

3. Architectural Proposals

Drafts are prepared for back-of-house layouts (offices, kitchens, staff areas), façade concepts, fire routes, and circulation. Restrictions from landlords—such as signage placement or marketing visibility—are also identified at this stage.

4. Cost Estimation

Baseline costs are established early, covering ceilings, HVAC, electrics, plumbing, and façade works. Crucially, feasibility highlights what can be reused—minimizing spend without compromising safety or compliance.

5. Planning and Permits

In Poland, permits can range from 24 hours to 12 weeks, depending on region and project complexity. The overall timeline typically looks like this:

• Feasibility design: ~6 weeks

• Project documentation: 4–6 weeks

• Permits: 1–12 weeks

• Construction: 6–8 weeks

• Fit-out: 3–4 weeks

• Merchandising: 5–7 days

Having this roadmap early means fewer delays and more confident delivery.

The Role of Local Authorities

Every region in a country has its own nuances when it comes to permitting, signage rules, and fire regulations. Local authorities play a decisive role, and engaging with them early is essential. An experienced architect with local knowledge can prevent long delays by understanding not only the letter of the law but also the practical expectations of regulators.

The Hidden Value of Feasibility

Feasibility isn’t just about compliance—it’s about strategy. By uncovering potential obstacles early, developers can plan around them instead of reacting mid-project. By highlighting opportunities to reuse existing infrastructure, feasibility reduces unnecessary spend. And by setting realistic timelines, it builds confidence with both investors and tenants.

In a market as competitive as Poland’s, these advantages can make the difference between a successful SBU park and a stalled project.

Conclusion

Expanding SBUs in Poland is a story of opportunity, but also of preparation. The country’s position as a growing European hub makes it ideal for flexible business spaces. Yet without rigorous feasibility studies, even the best-located projects can stumble on costs, compliance, or delays.

For investors and developers alike, the message is clear: feasibility is not paperwork—it’s your blueprint for success.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or investment advice. Readers should conduct independent due diligence and seek professional consultation before making business decisions.