By 2050, the number of square metres of logistics property in the Netherlands will have doubled. That is what real estate specialist Savills expects. To counter unbridled growth, national direction is needed. Moreover, more work needs to be done on sustainability.
Savills made a market analysis for the Logistics Working Group. It shows that 2.6 million square metres of logistics real estate were built in 2019. The total now stands at 38 million square metres. With an expected growth rate of 2.5 per cent per year, by 2050 it will have doubled compared to 2019.
New construction is still preferred by companies and investors. Existing properties often do not meet scale. Moreover, it is more economical to build new. Premises older than 20 years - even after renovation - often lend themselves poorly to contemporary logistics processes.
Savills argues that there is too little national direction in new construction. Lower governments currently determine whether scarce land is awarded to a party. According to the real estate specialist, social resistance to these 'unbridled developments and the irresponsible use of space and resources' is growing.
Power plants of the future
To manage the expected growth of the logistics sector, the Logistics Working Group wants to focus on accelerated sustainability and renewable energy. Roofs of distribution centres can be better utilised by putting solar panels on them. "Logistics warehouses and business parks can become the power plants of the future," reads the analysis.
Quick wins
Other opportunities for sustainability are so-called quick wins, where insulating loading doors (docks) and installing LED lighting in particular are cost-effective, according to Savills. Post-insulation of existing roofs and facades often requires larger investments.
