Antwerp-Brussels region, Belgium's logistical heart
In 2016, a study showed that the Antwerp-Brussels region, more specifically the A12 corridor, is the second best logistical top location of all of Europe. Only the Dutch town of Venlo, already discussed in this blog, does better. Why does this region do so well?
1. Great location between Antwerp, Ghent and Brussels
Naturally the A12 is Belgium's logistical heart and is located right in the middle of the golden Antwerp-Ghent-Brussels triangle. Considering that Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany and France still constitute Europe's biggest economic market, the great location speaks for itself.
2. Strong logistical infrastructure
You will find a great many high-quality industrial sites on the A12 corridor aimed at logistical activities, among others in Aartselaar, Boom, Willebroek, Londerzeel, Meise and Grimbergen. The cities and towns along this corridor also contribute greatly to this economic activity.
The A12 is also the main logistical corridor in Belgium. In the first 8 months of 2016, a transaction volume of 226,000 m² was generated. This means the Antwerp-Brussels-Ghent triangle is good for more than 60% of Belgium's transaction volume.
Because of this amazing location the prime rent fluctuates between €46 and €48 per m² (Source: JLL1) a year. There is an upward pressure on the rents because of the high cost price of land in this region. However, this rent is hugely compensated by the yield compression and the inexpensive financing costs.
3. Multimodal transport possibilities
The Antwerp-Brussels corridor is unlocked from the north to the south by the A12, part dual carriageway, part motorway. From east to the west you find the busy N16 and N17 regional roads, which connect Mechelen to Dendermonde, thus unlocking the region to Ghent. A connecting road between the A12 and the E19 motorway is under construction.
the Zeekanaal Brussel-Schelde ensures transport options on the water and a connection with the Port of Antwerp. Furthermore, transhipment is possible in the Willebroek container terminal. Companies are able to transport their international cargo via Brussels Airport. Train options in this region are also optimal, guaranteeing multimodal transport possibilities.
4. Government support thanks to the Spatial Master Plan
The government considers the A12 corridor, apparent in the Spatial Structural Plan for Flanders, among others, as an important logistical hub in Belgium. This makes new developments possible.
5. People
The A12 connects Antwerp with Brussels, Belgium's two biggest knowledge hubs. The people living here are highly skilled and have experience in the sector. A fertile nutrient in other words for new logistical developments.
Naturally, WDP also has a strong presence in Belgium's logistical heart. WDP has warehouses (some with free floor area still) in Boom, Londerzeel, Rumst, Ternat, Vilvoorde and Puurs. An overview of the available sites is available here.
1 http://www.jll.be/belgium/nl-nl/nieuws/152/logistiek-vastgoed-in-belgie-...
