The industrial and logistics sector stands out as one of the most dynamic in Portugal.
The most recent data points to a notable growth in demand, with almost 500,000 m² occupied by the third quarter of the year, and the attraction of a considerable volume of investment, in the region of €110 million over the same period.
In contrast to some of the main European markets, where there has been a slower recovery, Portugal should continue to benefit from its competitiveness in terms of costs in the European context, for the growth of the sector in the coming years. It should be noted that prime rents stand at 5.0€/m2/month, the second lowest in Europe.
The lack of qualified product has led developers to invest heavily, especially in the development of properties for own occupation, also creating opportunities for investors with attractive products and secure rents.
For 2025, and as always, the biggest challenges also represent the biggest opportunities for the sector.
First and foremost, there is a huge need to quickly bring products to market and update existing ones. There is great potential for rehabilitation based on the high demand and low vacancy rate in areas close to the city of Lisbon, such as the area between Pior Velho and Carregado, which has numerous disused factories.
And not forgetting compliance with ESG criteria and the increasingly demanding sustainability certifications, Portugal still has a long way to go in qualifying its offer to match other European markets.
Opinion article by Silvia Dragomir, Head of Research for Real Estate & Sustainability at Worx, published in issue no. 250 November/December 2024 of Vida Imobiliária magazine.
