The Logistics Properties Initiative (Logix) has commissioned a comprehensive study on multi-level logistics and commercial properties in Germany and Europe. The study, which will be published in two parts, aims to highlight both the potential and existing obstacles, and to identify ways to overcome them. Dr.-Ing. Roland Busch from the University of Wuppertal is responsible for the scientific leadership of this project.
The first part of the study, titled "Multi-Level Logistics. Space-Efficient Logistics Solutions in Urban Areas," is scheduled for release at the Expo Real property fair in October 2026. The second part is planned for autumn 2028. The first publication deals with the current state of the discussion and presents the results of several expert surveys. An initial online survey, in which over 100 specialists from the fields of project development, construction, specialist planning, usage, and investment participated, has already been completed.
Current Relevance and Identified Obstacles
The results of the initial survey underscore the importance of multi-level logistics. More than 80 percent of respondents have already dealt with corresponding concepts. A potential realisation of over 100 such projects in Germany by 2035 is predicted. The increasing scarcity of land, high land prices, the growing demand for last-mile locations, and the increasing relevance of sustainable construction methods are identified as key drivers for this development. Demand is particularly expected from e-commerce, contract logistics, pharmaceutical logistics, wholesale (specialist), as well as production and trade.
While project developers and construction companies generally adopt a positive attitude towards multi-level projects and want to actively drive their development, the attitude of building supervisory authorities, investors, and financiers is often described as sceptical or dismissive. Dr.-Ing. Roland Busch comments that multi-level logistics is still an exception in Germany, and emphasises: "Our initial results show that the advantages are indeed perceived, but they also reveal reservations."
- —High costs and low profitability of the concept
- —Uncertainty regarding the alternative use of properties
- —Lack of experience in implementing such projects
- —Low interest and reservations from investors and users
Detailed Analysis and Solutions
The processing period for the second study phase is set from June 2026 to September 2028. Within this framework, researchers plan to develop a typology for multi-storey logistics properties, map multi-level logistics properties in Europe, and compile best-practice case studies on projects as well as municipal planning and approval approaches. Additionally, impact analyses will examine the potential for reducing land consumption and the effects on traffic.
Dr. Malte-Maria Münchow, spokesperson and board member of the Logistics Properties Initiative and Head of Logistics Strategy at Deka Immobilien Investment, emphasises the importance of the research area: "Against the backdrop of rising land prices, a shortage of logistics space in metropolitan areas, and the federal government's goal to reduce land consumption to less than 30 ha per day by 2030, multi-level logistics is a highly exciting and practically relevant field of research." The upcoming Logix studies aim to analyse the current situation, identify potential, and examine concrete ways to realise it.
