Transport infrastructures, the main need of the national territory to develop its logistics activity

• The modernisation of transport infrastructures, the development of logistics land and the promotion of intermodality are some of the key needs faced by Spanish territories.
• David Martínez, CEO of Proequity, affirms that "investment in new technologies is key to a real and sustainable growth of logistics activity in Spain, encouraging in turn, new investors and strengthening its position at a European level".

Madrid, August 9, 2023. Increasing globalisation, together with the evolution that ecommerce has undergone in recent years, has caused Spanish territories to face significant challenges when it comes to developing logistics activities. This has resulted in the emergence of a series of fundamental needs that must be addressed to promote the competitiveness and efficiency of the sector throughout the territory. In this line, experts from Proequity, a leading consultancy firm in real estate operations, warn that the improvement of transport infrastructures and the development of logistics land is key to increasing the capacity of companies to take on the state's demand.

The improvement of transport infrastructure throughout the country is one of the main needs that the Spanish supply chain will have to face in the coming years. Especially if we take into account that the logistics field has become one of the assets of interest for national and international investors. To this end, professionals in the sector are calling for the modernisation and expansion of roads and motorways in order to facilitate the efficient flow of goods and ensure the proper functioning of the supply chain. Likewise, investment in new high-speed railway lines that free up conventional train lines for transport and the strengthening of ports and airports will allow greater connectivity and speed in logistical movements throughout the country, as well as connections at an international level.

In addition, experts point to the development of logistics land areas strategically located near the main logistics centres and existing transport networks as another priority to be addressed in the near future. Among these areas, Seville, Valencia and Zaragoza, for example, stand out for their growing potential in terms of logistics activity. In order to achieve a real positioning, these areas must have adequate infrastructures, such as accessible connections or spaces equipped with cutting-edge technology and modern designs, which allow for the easy distribution and storage of goods. Therefore, promoting new areas as potential logistics points at national level is another of the factors to be developed by the main players in the sector.

On the other hand, the promotion of intermodality is another crucial aspect to boost logistics development. The efficient combination of different modes of transport, such as roads, railways and ports, will not only improve efficiency in the movement of goods, but will also contribute to cost reduction. This requires investment in intermodal terminals and the implementation of policies that encourage the integration of the different modes.

Furthermore, in an increasingly digitalised context, technology also plays a key role for the growth of the sector. It is therefore increasingly necessary to invest in information and communication technology (ICT) to improve the efficiency and traceability of operations. By developing advanced logistics management systems, implementing sensors and IoT devices to track goods, and adopting technologies such as artificial intelligence and data analytics, it will be possible to significantly optimise activity.

David Martínez, CEO of Proequity, states that “it is crucial to invest in training and capacity building of staff in all areas related to logistics, including operations management, supply chain, international trade and technology”. In addition, Proequity values the implementation of training programmes adapted to current needs, “strategic investments and the implementation of effective policies by the competent authorities and relevant actors in the logistics sector are essential to address these shortcomings and promote an efficient and competitive logistics environment”, explains Martínez.