Logistics Real Estate Lelystad: Opportunities in a More Selective Market

The logistics real estate market in the Netherlands is changing. Where distribution centers were once leased almost automatically, tenants and investors now have more choice. But this shift does not signal declining demand. Demand for logistics space remains strong, but it is becoming more selective. As a result, new logistics regions such as Lelystad are gaining attention.

A new phase in the market
After years of scarcity, the market is normalizing. Vacancy rates are rising slightly, giving occupiers more options. This is widely seen as a healthy development.

At the same time, this new phase highlights an important shift: not every location benefits equally from ongoing demand for logistics space.

Location determines success
Differences between regions are becoming more visible. Not because demand is disappearing, but because companies are more critical about where they locate.

As Richard Elich points out: “The truly strong logistics regions are well known:  Tilburg-Waalwijk, Venlo, Rotterdam, Amsterdam, Schiphol. But there is simply no land available there anymore.”

These traditional hotspots remain highly attractive, yet are largely built out. This forces the market to look beyond established locations.

Space is shifting to new regions
Outside these core areas, opportunities are emerging, both in terms of available land and development potential. Developers and occupiers are increasingly exploring new regions where scale is still possible.

However, success in these areas requires a different approach. Not every location is suitable for standard logistics. Factors such as accessibility, scale, flexibility and positioning are key.

Lelystad as an alternative to scarcity
In this context, Lelystad is positioning itself as an alternative to the traditional hotspots. The region offers what has become scarce elsewhere: space, scalability and development potential.

Large-scale logistics developments in Lelystad demonstrate that growth is still possible, precisely because the constraints seen in established hotspots are less present here.

Developers such as DHG are actively investing in the region, focusing on flexible and future-proof logistics concepts that align with the evolving market.

Demand remains, but becomes more selective
Despite rising vacancy rates, the structural demand for logistics space remains strong.

“I strongly believe logistics will continue to grow,” says Elich. “Demand is still there, but it has become more selective.”

This means that in the coming years, success will depend less on the availability of space and more on the quality of the location.

Looking ahead to location decisions
For investors and logistics companies, the playing field is shifting. The focus is moving from availability to suitability.

The key question is no longer whether there is demand for logistics real estate, but where that demand will land.

Regions that combine space with the right conditions, such as Lelystad, are therefore increasingly becoming part of future location strategies.

Source: Logistiek.nl