Localisations of Logistics Centres in Greater Stockholm

Abstract: This study examines how and on what basis logistics centres are located in Greater Stockholm. Its purpose is to formulate a possible future scenario regarding localisations of logistics centres in Greater Stockholm in 10-15 years. Goods transports, distribution, property characteristics, market trends, investment decisions, localisation factors, potential challenges, public plans, transport infrastructure and logistics locations have been investigated in order to form a conclusion. There is a wide range of previous research on most fields mentioned above. Yet there is a gap regarding a picture of them from a market perspective applied to Stockholm’s future. The research method is qualitative, involving 31 interviews (34 respondents) representing logistics companies, goods holders, property developers, investors, consultants and municipalities; as they are making the decisions of tomorrow, i.e. "choose" the locations. The qualitative approach has been complemented with descriptions of infrastructure, regional plans and reports in order to consolidate and complement facts and opinions from the interviews. Together they provide the basis for a final analysis and discussion followed by a possible future scenario of Greater Stockholm’s major logistics locations. Stockholm’s population and purchase power is increasing; there is a housing shortage which is forecasted to worsen, environmental regulations get stricter, financing for logistics developments is getting harder, competition increases among logistics companies and the transport infrastructure in Stockholm is facing major changes. The strongest effects these parameters have had on logistics property market is that space consuming businesses move to the outskirts as they cannot find economy in being centrally located. The trend of space consuming activities leaving the city centres in favour of e.g. residential, office and retail use seem to continue. There is an increased interest from investors and operators for logistics in Greater Stockholm. Many central locations are left in order to find modern (more efficient) outskirt located (cheaper) premises. The major logistics centres in 10-15 years seem to be "Stockholm Nord" (Rosersberg/Arlanda) in the north "Stockholm Syd" (Södertälje/Nykvarn) in the south. Upplands-Bro and Jordbro will be important. Lunda/Järfälla, Västberga/Årsta together with minor areas in Botkyrka and Huddinge will mainly be options for smaller terminals or cross-docking units, as the land will be too expensive for businesses requiring large spaces.