·  An overview of potential, basic types and challenges

·  Classification lays the foundation for future standards

Space for logistics properties is becoming increasingly scarce, particularly in Germany’s metropolitan regions. At the same time, demand for easily accessible warehousing, distribution and production sites is rising. Multi-storey logistics properties can offer a way to utilise existing commercial and industrial sites more efficiently. In its new study, ‘Multilevel Logistics Properties’, the Logistics Properties Initiative (Logix) examines the potential offered by this type of construction and the conditions that need to be created for its wider adoption in Germany.

The publication, compiled under the direction of Dr.-Ing. Roland Busch of the University of Wuppertal, is the first of two studies on the topic of multi-storey logistics properties. It defines the concept of multi-storey logistics properties, catalogues and classifies projects already completed in Europe, and examines their structural and functional characteristics. The survey reveals a great deal of diversity. At the same time, the European projects can be categorised into six clearly distinguishable basic types. Whilst multi-storey logistics properties have already been realised in various forms across Europe, there have so far been only a few such projects in Germany, particularly those with ramp access to the upper storeys. 

Potential, basic types and challenges of multi-storey construction

Multi-storey construction is becoming increasingly important, particularly where land is scarce and expensive. A more efficient use of industrial and commercial land can help to reduce the sealing of land not previously used for commercial purposes (greenfield sites). At the same time, more centrally located sites offer the potential for improved accessibility to conurbations and, where applicable, for the optimisation of freight transport.

“The increasing scarcity of land requires a rethink in the planning and construction of logistics properties. Our study shows that the potential of multi-storey concepts is already being utilised in various projects across Europe and can play an important role in the future development of logistics sites,” says Dr Roland Busch from the University of Wuppertal.

This assessment is confirmed by the results of a survey of 103 experts from the construction and property sectors, carried out in April and May 2026. Half of the 70 respondents who assessed future prospects see great or very great potential for multi-storey logistics properties in the coming years. Across the various types of multi-level logistics properties, the average forecasts total over 120 projects, which the respondents expect to be realised by 2035. The greatest market potential is attributed to urban supply and last-mile multi-level logistics properties.

At the same time, the study makes it clear that various obstacles are currently preventing wider adoption. These include, in particular, the comparatively high construction costs and the lack of cost certainty during implementation, which arise from the more complex requirements of multi-storey buildings. Challenges arise, for example, from structural systems, access and fire safety, such as the higher requirements for loads, ramps and vertical access. Added to this are a lack of empirical data and building standards that have not yet been established, which complicates planning and cost estimation. Furthermore, the approval and inspection procedures are not yet well-established and may prove more time-consuming due to the complex requirements.

Greater transparency as the basis for future standards

There are particular opportunities for action in the areas of standardisation and the collation of existing experience. Examples of best practice, a systematic record of completed projects and the classification of building types can help to create greater transparency regarding the various forms of multi-storey construction. In the long term, this can lead to the development of type-specific building standards and more efficient planning and approval processes.

“For the first time, the study provides a structured overview of the different forms of multi-storey logistics properties and the experience gained from completed projects in Europe. This establishes a factual basis for discussing the prerequisites for greater use of such concepts in Germany in the future,” explains Dr Malte-Maria Münchow, spokesperson for the Logix Initiative.

The publication was produced by Logix in collaboration with the Federal Ministry for Housing, Urban Development and Construction (BMWSB) and the study’s sponsors: BayernLB, WISAG Facility Management Logistik, GSE Deutschland and the MLP Group. It will initially be published in German and will subsequently be available in English. The publication can be downloaded free of charge from the Logix website: https://logix-award.de/publikationen/