June 26th 2024
Driving through older industrial parks, I notice the lack of on-site storage
space for trailers, containers, and equipment. Many buildings are built on
lots that adequately serve a light manufacturing operation, with docks and
truck yards suitable for inbound materials and outbound finished products.
Logistics for manufacturers and suppliers is changing dramatically.
Manufacturing meet distribution. Last mile, meet the light industrial building.
What I’m witnessing are truck trailers on interior streets, truck yards packed
to the gills and a growing need for off-site truck yards and outside storage.
And, a resistance on the part of communities to provide an answer.
In conclusion, the evolving landscape of logistics and distribution is
reshaping the functionality of industrial parks, highlighting the inadequacies
of existing on-site storage solutions. The trend of utilizing interior streets and
packed truck yards underscores the urgent need for updated zoning codes
and innovative storage solutions. Communities must confront these
challenges head-on to prevent functional obsolescence of properties and
ensure that industrial parks can meet the demands of modern logistics and
manufacturing. Without proactive measures, the mismatch between
infrastructure and operational needs will continue to grow, impacting
efficiency, jobs and the communities tax base.
A recent NAIOP Article provides some tips on addressing the growing need
for IOS. View Article Here.
William Mears, CCIM, SIOR
Broker
Coldwell Banker Commercial McGuire Mears & Associates