Future-proof logistics properties: from grey block to smart logistics center
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Logistics is considered the backbone of the economy – and it will continue to grow in importance in the coming years. According to the latest industry ranking by the FutureManagementGroup, logistics is the second most forward-looking and robust sector in Germany until 2040. This assessment is based on an analysis of five key megatrends that will shape the coming decades:
- Exponential data growth
- Increasing productivity through artificial intelligence
- Increased use of robotics
- Longer working life
- Focus on sustainability
While many industries are facing massive challenges due to technological upheaval, logistics is currently positioning itself as one of the winners of the digital transformation. In this sector, digitalization not only ensures efficiency gains, for example through real-time tracking, data-driven route optimization and AI-supported capacity planning. It also enables completely new business models such as Logistics as a Platform (LaaP) or fully automated fulfillment centers.
Future technologies such as AI ensure huge leaps in efficiency
In this context, the already enormous importance of logistics real estate will continue to grow. A key driver is the continuing high demand in e-commerce. With a predicted increase in online trade of around 40 percent worldwide by 2030 (with an estimated volume of 5.4 trillion euros by then), the demand for modern warehouse and distribution space will also increase significantly. In Germany alone, around five million square meters of new logistics space are created every year – and demand continues to grow. However, this development also brings challenges: land prices are rising, space is becoming scarcer and the requirements for sustainability and climate neutrality are becoming more stringent. In view of the increasing importance of ESG criteria, many logistics companies are focusing on energy-efficient properties with innovative concepts to conserve resources. This includes photovoltaic systems on the roofs, energy-efficient cooling technology and sustainable building materials. As a result, logistics properties are becoming increasingly attractive not only as economic investments, but also as sustainable ones. And in the area of space search, digital solutions promise support with regard to the growing challenges, for example through AI-supported detection of space potential. A good use case for this is the AGROS project (Identification of reactivatable commercial sites using optical-based systems), which was initiated by the German Brownfield Association (DEBV) and developed together with the Supply Chain Services working group at Fraunhofer IIS. Numerous partners from the real estate, logistics and retail sectors are already on board.
Logistics sets the pace for efficient supply chains
Advancing automation and digitalization are increasing the value of modern logistics properties. Companies are increasingly investing in automated warehouse technology, robotics and data-driven management systems. However, these technologies require a corresponding infrastructure, which is primarily available in newly developed logistics centers. For real estate investors and developers, this presents an opportunity to offer smart and ultra-modern spaces that not only meet the current requirements of users, but also those of the future. Solutions are needed that no longer just offer sufficient capacity, but also impress in terms of energy efficiency and flexibility. At the same time, logistics real estate has become a sought-after investment property characterized by stable returns – a further indication of how valuable the sector has become. Interested parties can find out more about the future viability of logistics real estate at BUILDINX from November 18-20, 2025 in Dortmund. There, too, it will become clear that logistics has long since become the pacemaker for efficient supply chains and thus one of the decisive sectors for a networked, sustainable future.
In summary, it can be said that the logistics real estate sector is ideally positioned for the future due to the rising demand for urban logistics space, increasing flexibility, the integration of digital technologies and the focus on sustainability. More and more ultra-modern, multifunctional and smart logistics centers are being built, which are an essential part of global supply chains.
Author: Boris Kretzinger
