The Price of Location in UK Logistics

Recently, our consultants supported a client on a property search as part of a network expansion.

Although most people are already aware that property in the south-east is more expensive than the rest of the country, it’s still quite striking to see the variance when it is clearly mapped out.

UK Industrial Lease Costs Map

Map of UK with coloured data points illustrating the cost of property in different areas
Shows inverse relationship between availability and cost

North
£6.14 / sqft

Midlands
£6.61 / sqft

South
£10.06 / sqft

From the sample analysed:

  • Rental costs decrease the greater the distance from London, both on a North-South and East-West axis
  • Stronger availability in the North West; 21 existing or close to completion versus 13 in Midlands and 12 in South

Sample Overview

  • 46 industrial properties
  • 71,000-532,000 sqft
  • Typically grade A spec build, with some still in construction
  • Lease cost quotation by agents

Key advice

The cost of space is just one element of locating a logistics operation. This might hold more weight for operations that are space hungry but it might be less relevant for labour intensive operations.

Supply chain leaders need to take account of a wide range of factors when locating their future logistics operations:

  • Rent and rates
  • Inbound transport from suppliers or port
  • Outbound transport to customers, stores, ports or parcel carriers
  • Local labour costs
  • Local labour availability
  • Local labour quality and skills
  • Local government incentives

To find out how we can support your logistics network development and expansion, contact our expert consulting team on our Contact Us page or email enquiries@box-logic.co.uk

infographic

INSIGHTS