Embracing Flexibility: Rise of On-Demand Logistics Space

Logistics buildings (or warehouses) are the stalwart players within global supply chains. Their crucial role in facilitating the movement of goods, materials, and information cannot be overstated. However, the evolving nature of today's business environment, marked by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA), has given rise to a growing demand for more flexible logistics space. As the leading proponent of innovative solutions in the commercial real estate sector, JLL recognises this shifting landscape and has responded with a groundbreaking online marketplace—dedicated exclusively to flexible logistics spaces.

The rise of flexibility

Traditionally, businesses have either owned or leased warehouses, choosing to operate them internally or outsourcing the operation to a third-party logistics provider (3PL). These solutions, while effective, often involve protracted timelines and long-term commitments that do not align with the rapid changes of the modern market. However, with the advent of digital technology platforms, new opportunities have emerged to address these challenges.

Introducing Flex Logistics

At JLL, we have been at the forefront of online property marketing for over a decade, primarily focusing on traditional lease terms. Acknowledging the increasing demand for more agile logistics solutions, we are proud to introduce a UK-wide listing dedicated entirely to flexible logistics spaces. Powered by cutting-edge technology, this platform provides millions of square feet of on-demand logistics space, accessible on short-term, "easy-in, easy-out" terms.

Warehouse as a Service (WaaS)

Our marketplace goes beyond simply connecting supply and demand. It offers an innovative approach - Warehouse as a Service (WaaS), that presents a bundled cost structure inclusive of rents, business rates, and service charges. This model allows businesses to swiftly secure the space they require without the burden of complex negotiations and prolonged decision-making processes.

Access to real experts

While our online marketplace streamlines the process of finding and securing flexible logistics space, we emphasise the important role of our professional JLL agents. These dedicated experts ensure that customers receive personalised attention, guaranteeing that their specific needs are met and the selected space aligns perfectly with their business requirements.

Unlocking opportunities for your specific business needs

Our Flex Logistics marketplace opens up extraordinary possibilities. For businesses seeking additional warehouse capacity, it offers easy access to a vast network of suppliers, providing the opportunity to add or subtract capacity as needed. Whether businesses choose to complement their core network of facilities, outsource their warehousing needs, or explore entirely on-demand solutions, our platform caters to diverse needs.

Making it win-win

Additionally, our revolutionary model offers benefits to both landlords and occupiers with surplus space. Landlords can capitalise on this growing trend by renting out their unused capacity, securing additional income streams. Moreover, landlords with extensive logistics portfolios can entice new businesses by providing flexible logistics space that accommodates future expansion into larger, more traditional lease terms when the time is right.

Flexible solution to empower your business

While the demand for flexible logistics space may not entirely reshape the market, it is undeniably here to stay. As a thought leader in commercial real estate, JLL's innovative online marketplace is uniquely positioned to fulfil this demand and ensure businesses can leverage flexible logistics space to their advantage. By marrying digital technology with the expertise of our professional agents, we have created a flexible logistics ecosystem that empowers businesses to adapt to the VUCA world. Join us on our online marketplace and unlock a world of flexible possibilities for your logistics needs.

Find your future Flex Logistics space here.