The rise in online shopping has meant many businesses have set their sights on expanding their distribution operations near the large population centres in Malaga province and the Costa del Sol. According to a recent report by property consultants, CB Richard Ellis, the demand for these types of premises currently outstrips supply.
The company's report, entitled Core Cities, says that local market demand continues to improve, driven by the economic recovery, a strong tourism sector and e-commerce. But there are not enough modern, large storage warehouses available.
The report highlights the future Megahub Andalucía, planned for Antequera in inland Malaga province with 3.3 million square metres of space, of which almost a third will be for distribution warehouses.
However lack of space right on the coast near Malaga city continues to be the most urgent, short- term problem, although some smaller projects are in the pipeline. Amazon is the highest-profile company that has yet to decide to open a local base, despite plans to do so.