Report identifies industrial growth sectors for construction

Cushman & Wakefield has published a new report highlighting strong growth potential for industrial and logistics real estate in the UK, driven by accelerating investment in defence, clean energy, life sciences, and critical materials.

The report, Strategic Sector Signals: Opportunities for Industrial Real Estate in Europe, outlines how recent government policy shifts are shaping demand for new and repurposed industrial spaces—particularly in strategic locations across the UK.

Among the key sectors:

• Defence: The UK’s expanded defence spending commitments are expected to generate increased demand for manufacturing and logistics facilities, particularly in existing industrial clusters.

  
  

• Clean Energy: Investment in wind power, solar technology, and Small Modular Reactors is set to boost requirements for specialist buildings, especially in ports and designated investment zones.

  
  

• Life Sciences: New government funding and policy support is reinforcing the UK’s position as a life sciences hub, driving demand for high-specification manufacturing and distribution space.

Cushman & Wakefield notes that occupiers across these sectors are seeking flexible, future-proofed real estate solutions, with demand spanning new builds, retrofits, and logistics co-location.

The full report offers detailed insights into sector-specific trends, locational strategies, and real estate implications for investors and occupiers.