Business Forum • 1 August, 2025 at 10:37 AM
More than 417,000 sqm of industrial space were leased in H1 2025, marking an over 20% increase compared to the same period in 2024, according to Colliers data.
Retail- and consumer-driven sectors remained the primary demand driver, accounting for at least two-thirds of overall leasing demand.
During H1 2025, over 210,000 sqm of industrial and logistics space were delivered. Another 400,000 sqm are currently under construction and scheduled for completion within the next year, which will take the total stock over 8 million sqm.
Demand for modern warehouses, regional hubs, and efficient logistics infrastructure has seen a notable rise, fueled by the ongoing development of FMCG distribution networks and the acceleration of e-commerce.
Simina Niculiță, Partner | Head of Retail Agency at Colliers, said: "Retail has become a key catalyst for the growth of the industrial market, directly driving demand for logistics space. The expansion of store networks, the acceleration of online deliveries, and the shift toward smaller and mid-sized cities are placing increasing pressure on existing infrastructure. We're seeing growing investment in modern warehouses and regional hubs. Discounters, in particular, are in a phase of rapid expansion, seeking flexible logistics solutions tailored to efficient and consistent supply flows."
The growing pressure for same-day or next-day deliveries is prompting retailers to expand their footprint by developing regional hubs not only near major urban centers but also in well-connected secondary cities. This ongoing expansion is driving the need for efficient warehouses and logistics hubs.
Rents for modern industrial spaces remain stable, ranging from €4.5 to €5 per sqm per month in major cities and between €3.8 and €4.5 in regional cities.
The national average vacancy rate stands at 5.5%. However, in certain submarkets, such as northern Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, or Timișoara, it drops below 4%, reflecting limited supply and growing pressure on available space.