Increasing ESG requirements, geopolitical uncertainties, the e-commerce boom, and changing supply chains are shaping the European logistics property markets – one of the findings of the online panel "New Ways, New Markets – Europe's Logistics Properties in the Interplay of ESG, E-Commerce, and Geopolitics." The online panel organized by Rueckerconsult took place on August 5. In the online event, industry experts exchanged views on market trends, demand drivers, and the future of the segment, according to a press release from Rueckerconsult on August 13. Participants included Christian Müller (Savills Investment Management), Christian Goebel (Manova Partners), Marten Helms (Catella Investment Management), and Tobias Kassner (Garbe Industrial Real Estate).
Müller explained that despite a weaker economic climate, the market has stable foundations. Rent increases are possible, especially in urban locations and ESG-compliant properties. Demand for
space remains high, driven by e-commerce and reorganized supply chains. More than half of the users expect greater space demand in the next three years. In the medium term, nearshoring and planned EU investments in defense of around 800 billion euros by 2030 are likely to make additional logistics networks necessary.
Helms confirmed decreasing vacancy rates and stable to increasing rents in the core markets. Location decisions are more flexible: Depending on space availability, infrastructure, rental costs, and labor supply, locations up to 100 kilometers away from the customer are also considered. Kassner pointed out scarce space and advocated for new concepts such as multi-story logistics centers, intermunicipal industrial areas, and additional designations. ESG requirements and energy infrastructure – such as charging points, heat pumps, and PV systems – must be planned alongside.
Trade Policy as a Factor
Geopolitical tensions and trade policy measures increasingly influence logistics. The recent customs deal between the EU and the USA has indeed prevented a trade war but includes higher tariffs and special rules whose permanence is uncertain, according to Müller. Kassner emphasized that companies are increasingly relying on regional networks to reduce dependencies. Goebel regards the deal as a transitional solution and points out that markets like the United Kingdom are strategically repositioning themselves. Helms spoke of a geopolitically driven realignment of trade flows, which also changes Europe's role as a logistical bridge to Mediterranean ports and Eastern Europe.
In the investment market, experts see opportunities for counter-cyclical entries. Logistics remains attractive for institutional investors as it offers stable cash flows and growth potential. Goebel announced the launch of
a pan-European logistics fund.
For the future, according to the panel, efficient power and data connections are crucial. Kassner warned against locations with inadequate network connections, where even PV power cannot be fed into the grid. Helms reported on charging stations for transporters at every ramp; for e-trucks, the infrastructure is still lacking in many places.
Additionally, there are opportunities outside Europe. In the USA, stronger price corrections have created a favorable entry point. In Mexico, nearshoring is driving growth, especially in border regions with the USA. Müller added that selected Asian metropolises also offer demand potential, albeit with high market entry barriers.
The conclusion of the roundtable: The European logistics property market is in transition but offers long-term opportunities. Those who invest in high-quality, future-proof properties can benefit from stable returns and
