Transport may dominate the headlines, but many of the logistics industry’s most pressing constraints lie within warehousing. According to Grant Smith, developments executive at JT Ross Property Group, the sector is evolving into a more digitised, resilient, efficient and sustainability- focused environment. Technology adoption, warehouse capacity expansion, smarter transport solutions, integrated partnerships and cross-border digitisation are among the key forces reshaping the landscape. “A noticeable shift is under way, with logistics becoming less about simply moving goods and increasingly about where and how those goods are stored, handled and distributed,” he said. But, he noted, this is also where some of the biggest challenges lie. “Space availability is a major constraint. In key logistics nodes, modern warehouse stock is limited, particularly facilities that meet current operational standards, including high stacking heights, large yard areas, efficient truck circulation and locations within well-managed precincts offering corporate visibility,” he told Freight News. “Ageing building stock is another hurdle. A significant portion of existing warehouses was designed for older supply chain models and these facilities struggle to support modern requirements such as automation systems, racking optimisation and temperature-controlled storage.” According to Smith, one clear trend is the strong demand for modern, purpose-built facilities. Tenants increasingly prefer buildings designed for operational efficiency rather than retrofitted spaces. Features such as high clear heights, wide column spacing, cross-docking capability and smart-ready infrastructure are rapidly becoming standard requirements. “There is also growing demand for logistics parks and integrated precincts, as businesses increasingly prefer operating in environments where multiple supply chain functions are clustered within a single, secure location,” he said. “These hubs improve efficiency, shorten turnaround times between service providers and reduce operational risk by centralising infrastructure, access control and support services.” This model is already proving successful locally. JT Ross was an early pioneer of the concept through the development of four logistics parks within the Riverfields precinct, with JT Ross Park: Plumbago 5 representing the newest addition. The development comprises eight secure, state-of-the-art facilities ranging in size from 4 000m2 to over 30 000m2, each purpose- built for operational efficiency and flexibility. Logistics parks also address one of the sector’s major operational concerns – the reliability of power, water and other essential services. These facilities often incorporate built-in resilience solutions, reducing the risk of downtime, inventory losses and missed delivery windows. “Facilities equipped with solar, backup power and energy- efficient design are no longer viewed as premium extras; they’re increasingly expected,” he said. Smith noted that the local market was increasingly aligning with international trends. “The logistics market is shifting from basic storage and associated transport towards high-performance logistics ecosystems. Developers that build integrated park infrastructure and modern logistics facilities that improve access, reliability and cost efficiency will capture growth,” he said. “There is clear headroom for new logistics warehouse development, particularly in key economic corridors and urban metro-edge locations. Well- located, high-spec facilities tend to secure tenants quickly because they allow businesses to operate more efficiently and scale without relocating.” Another emerging opportunity is in urban last-mile distribution. As customer expectations shift towards faster delivery times, companies require strategically located facilities closer to end users. These sites prioritise speed and accessibility rather than sheer size. “There is also growing demand for flexible warehouse configurations. Businesses want spaces that can adapt to changing inventory volumes or seasonal peaks. Developments that allow for future expansion or multi-tenant subdivision are becoming especially appealing,” said Smith. LV
