“The warehousing & logistics sector is expanding rapidly to keep up with India’s economic growth,” said Ankita Sahu, Senior Manager – Industrial & Logistics I Data Centres, ANAROCK Capital. “In H1 2024, the sector captured a significant portion of PE investments, led by major deals such as Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) and KKR’s USD 1.54 billion investment in Reliance Logistics & Warehouse Holdings’ warehousing portfolio.”

Key Drivers of Growth

The demand for logistics space continues to surge, fueled by third-party logistics (3PL) providers, e-commerce, retail businesses, and manufacturing companies. Industrial and logistics space absorption saw a nearly 25% year-on-year growth in 2024, a trend expected to continue in 2025.

However, challenges such as an unfavorable intermodal mix, supply chain inefficiencies, and rising costs persist. Government initiatives like PM Gati Shakti and the National Logistics Policy are expected to alleviate these bottlenecks. The Union Budget 2025 has reinforced this commitment by prioritizing infrastructure development, enhancing public-private partnerships, and facilitating better project planning through improved data access.

Chennai, Mumbai, Pune, and the National Capital Region (NCR) remain the primary logistics hubs, with developers actively seeking land to establish new warehouses and fulfillment centers. Multi-modal logistics park projects under public-private partnerships are set to further reduce transportation costs.

6 Key Trends Shaping the Sector in 2025

1. Adoption of Digital Simulation & Digital Twins
   The logistics industry is set to embrace ‘digital twins’—virtual models of warehouses that simulate real-time physical operations. This innovation will optimize warehouse efficiency, enhance inventory management, and streamline supply chains.
2. Last-Mile & Quick Commerce Growth
   The rapid expansion of quick commerce (Q-commerce) platforms is reshaping urban logistics, leading to a rising demand for in-city distribution centers. With intense competition in the sector, companies are expected to invest in AI-driven personalization, automated warehousing, and faster delivery solutions.
3. Expansion of Cold Chain Infrastructure
   Growing organized retail, quick service restaurants (QSRs), rising food consumption, and advancements in the pharmaceutical sector are accelerating the need for robust cold chain logistics. Companies like Snowman, ColdStar, and Coldman are expanding Grade A cold storage facilities across major metros and tier-2 cities.
4. Technology Integration: IoT, Robotics & Blockchain
   Logistics firms are rapidly integrating Internet of Things (IoT) for real-time shipment tracking, robotics for inventory management, and blockchain for secure, efficient warehouse operations. These advancements will significantly improve operational efficiency and security in logistics.
5. Sustainability Initiatives Gain Momentum
   The logistics industry is increasingly adopting sustainable practices, including renewable energy for warehouses, electric vehicle fleets for last-mile deliveries, and circular economy initiatives. Companies are expected to intensify efforts to reduce carbon footprints and optimize packaging solutions.
6. Workforce Development & Diversity Initiatives
   Skill development remains a key focus, with the government planning to establish five National Centres of Excellence for specialized training in supply chain management and logistics technology. Additionally, the industry is making strides in workforce diversity, promoting greater inclusion across various roles in the supply chain.

A Transformative Year Ahead

With robust policy backing, heightened investments, and accelerating technological adoption, India’s logistics and warehousing sector is on the brink of a major transformation in 2025. Companies that prioritize tech-enabled solutions, sustainability, and workforce development will gain a competitive edge in this evolving landscape.

Also Read: Lodha Industrial and Logistics Park

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India has been making notable strides in every sector, but its growth in the EV space has been particularly impressive. To make this growth more remarkable, the government of India is aiming to achieve 30% penetration in EV sales by 2030, which amounts to nearly 8 crores of EVs. However, to achieve this target, it is also necessary to boost the EV infrastructure across the nation. For instance, our country would need public and semi-public charging stations in the ratio of 1 station per 20 vehicles. However, the ratio currently stands at 1 charging hub per 135 EVs, far from the desired infrastructure target. Meanwhile, to close this gap, the government has initiated various schemes like FAME, the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP), and the PM E-Drive, which provide exclusive offers to consumers as well as manufacturers. Still, the success of the initiatives would depend heavily on private investments. In this growth phase, the role of residential developers would be indispensable. By integrating suitable EV infrastructure with their residential projects, they can support EV charging needs and attract eco-conscious tenants. As more homebuyers embrace green living solutions, developers have an opportunity to reap the benefits. On that note, let’s discuss what makes now an ideal time for developers to invest in EV infrastructure.

Opportunities for Residential Developers

Consumers’ Attitude Towards Sustainability: Due to the sudden shift towards sustainability, the majority of homebuyers, particularly Gen Zers and Millennials, are prioritizing green living over everything. Data shows that 73% of Gen Zers are willing to spend more on eco-friendly products, and in this situation, features like EV hubs are becoming non-negotiable amenities in residential spaces. This shift in trends presents a new opportunity for developers to align their offers with residents’ demand for a clean environment.

Enhancing Property Value: Most developers are incorporating green features in their buildings, and charging stations are one of them. According to reports, properties with EV charging hubs can command a 2-5% premium, making their property more appealing to buyers.

Retaining Eco-Conscious Tenants: For a builder, it is important that their building does not remain vacant for long and receives longer lease requests. By offering EV charging stations, building developers could retain their tenants, particularly those with sustainable choices. This move could also help them attract more eco-conscious tenants who seek sustainable amenities in their new homes.

Renewable Energy Integration: During FY24, EV charging grids powered by renewable energy gained a lot of traction. As a result, today, many investors and tenants seek residential properties that feature solar-powered EV charging hubs. If developers start integrating renewable energy sources for EV charging in their buildings, it will make the charging experience more sustainable for tenants and help save operational costs.

Challenges to Fill These Gaps

As appealing as it sounds, it is not easy to incorporate EV infrastructure into buildings due to high installation costs. Setting up a charging station requires thousands and lakhs of rupees, which is not easy for all residential developers to generate. However, to support them, the government has introduced various measures that will help incentivize private sector participation. For instance, FAME and 100% FDI in EV infrastructure have encouraged investment and growth. Such measures are also expected to promote innovations like integrating renewable energy in charging grids and developing fast chargers suitable for residential properties, strengthening the grid.

To achieve the target of shifting the nation towards sustainability, both private and public sectors need to come together. Residential developers, in particular, have an opportunity to provide EV users with accessible charging infrastructure and advance India towards net zero emissions goals while boosting their income sources.

Also Read: Adani to redevelop Dharavi?

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The ISO 14001 certification recognises WeWork India’s implementation of effective environmental management systems, focusing on reducing environmental impact and improving sustainability across its operations. The ISO 45001 certification underscores its robust occupational health and safety (OH&S) framework, ensuring safe and efficient spaces for employees, members, and visitors.

“This is a significant milestone in our journey towards creating sustainable workspaces that meet global standards,” said Karan Virwani, Managing Director & CEO of WeWork India. “These certifications further strengthen WeWork India’s leadership in building long-term sustainable work environments. We will continue to lead the way in fostering a workplace culture that prioritises sustainability and wellbeing.”

WeWork India operates in eight cities with over 100,000 desks, offering workspace solutions for businesses ranging from solopreneurs and start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. The organisation remains committed to enhancing its environmental practices and health and safety measures while delivering high-quality workspace experiences.

These certifications reinforce WeWork India’s position as a leader in sustainable and health-conscious workspace management in India’s competitive real estate market.

Also Read: WeWork India Raises INR 500 Crore via Rights Issue to Reduce Debt

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Tata Consulting Engineers (TCE), India’s leading pure-play design, engineering, and project management consultancy, has announced its acquisition of CDI Engineering Solutions (CDI), a US-based design engineering firm with a 75-year legacy. This acquisition is a significant step in TCE’s global expansion strategy and reinforces its commitment to delivering efficient, innovative, and sustainable projects across industries.

CDI, recognized as one of the top 20 firms in the Industrial/Oil & Gas sector by Engineering News-Record (ENR), has built a strong reputation in both traditional and emerging energy markets, including battery materials, carbon capture, and low/zero-carbon fuels. With a client base that includes several Fortune 500 companies, CDI’s established track record in delivering safe and high-quality projects complements TCE’s strengths in engineering design and project management.

TCE’s vision of “Engineering a Better Tomorrow,” with a focus on plant engineering, project management, and specialized equipment for process and strategic sectors, aligns seamlessly with CDI’s capabilities. The acquisition will enable both firms to address critical global challenges, such as the clean energy transition, decarbonization, and the development of resilient infrastructure.

L. Krishnakumar, Chairman of Tata Consulting Engineers, commented, “This acquisition marks a transformative milestone in TCE’s growth journey. By integrating CDI’s expertise, we significantly enhance our global presence and strengthen our ability to provide impactful engineering solutions across industries and geographies.”

Amit Sharma, MD & CEO of TCE, added, “With CDI’s strong North American presence and technical excellence, this acquisition creates a powerful platform for sustainable engineering solutions. By combining our capabilities, we are well-positioned to meet urgent global priorities, from energy transition to sustainable infrastructure development.”

Steve Karlovic, President of CDI Engineering Solutions, expressed excitement about the partnership: “Joining the Tata Consulting Engineers family presents an incredible opportunity to drive innovation and deliver value for our clients. Together, we will push the boundaries of engineering excellence while offering growth opportunities for our employees.”

The acquisition also expands TCE’s global delivery platform, which will now incorporate CDI’s eight engineering centres in the US, enhancing the firm’s ability to provide seamless, scalable solutions and foster innovation across geographies.

With this acquisition, TCE continues to strengthen its position as a global leader in the design, engineering, and project management consultancy space.

Also Read: Ajay Devgn real estate

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NAREDCO Maharashtra NextGen has partnered with Brigade Real Estate Accelerator Program (REAP) to strengthen PROPEL, a groundbreaking initiative designed to support emerging entrepreneurs in India’s real estate sector. The collaboration brings together NAREDCO’s expansive industry network and Brigade REAP’s expertise in scaling PropTech startups, creating a robust platform for innovation and growth in the real estate industry.

The partnership is set to be showcased at Excelerate 3.0, a premier event focused on advancing technology and innovation in real estate, scheduled for November 14, 2024, at Hotel Sahara Star, Mumbai.

Brigade REAP, one of India’s leading PropTech accelerators, has incubated a total of 76 startups, the highest in the country. Its Earth Fund, a ₹200 crore PropTech venture fund, further strengthens India’s largest ecosystem for PropTech innovation. With this partnership, PROPEL aims to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs with critical resources, including mentorship, funding, and strategic guidance.

Mr. Prashant Sharma, President of NAREDCO Maharashtra, highlighted the importance of this initiative in the evolving real estate landscape, stating, “India’s real estate sector stands at a pivotal moment, and the demand for innovation has never been higher. By partnering with Brigade REAP, we are ensuring that emerging entrepreneurs have access to not only the capital they need but also the strategic support to succeed in this fast-paced industry.”

Mr. Rajan Bandelkar, Vice Chairman of NAREDCO, further emphasized the role of PROPEL in shaping the future of urban development. “PROPEL is designed to create an ecosystem that fosters creativity, sustainability, and cutting-edge solutions to address the challenges posed by urbanization. With Brigade REAP’s support, we are offering both financial and strategic backing to startups, helping them tackle the evolving needs of the real estate market.”

Mr. Ridham Gada, President of NAREDCO NextGen Maharashtra, added, “We are thrilled to strengthen PROPEL through this collaboration with Brigade REAP. Their leadership in fostering PropTech innovation in India aligns perfectly with our shared vision of accelerating disruptive technologies in real estate.”

At Excelerate 3.0, PROPEL will be a central focus, with participants having the opportunity to pitch their ideas, gain exposure, and secure funding from a network of investors, including those associated with Brigade REAP. The event will also feature discussions on key topics such as smart cities, sustainability, and the application of artificial intelligence in real estate.

Through this partnership, PROPEL aims to provide startups with invaluable mentorship from industry leaders, access to funding, and opportunities to network with investors, developers, and other key stakeholders. Brigade REAP will also offer market insights, investment opportunities, and the expertise of seasoned PropTech mentors to help startups scale quickly and successfully.

This initiative by NAREDCO Maharashtra NextGen and Brigade REAP underscores a commitment to fostering innovation and positioning India as a global leader in real estate technology and sustainable urban development. As the country’s PropTech ecosystem continues to expand, PROPEL is poised to play a crucial role in driving the next wave of innovation in the real estate sector.

Also Read: NAREDCO Maharashtra NextGen Unveils Excelerate 3.0: A Vision for Innovation in Construction

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The Asia Pacific office market has shown a robust recovery, with demand surging 10.7% year-on-year (YoY) in Q3 2024, according to the latest Colliers data. The report highlights a significant increase in leasing activity across the region, with demand reaching 2.2 million square meters (23.7 million square feet) in the third quarter, signaling a positive outlook for 2025.

The growth was particularly strong in key markets such as India, New Zealand, and Singapore, where annual leasing activity exceeded 30%. India continued to dominate the region, accounting for over 70% of total demand in Q3 2024, with demand primarily driven by Bengaluru and Hyderabad. India alone saw leasing activity of 1.61 million square meters (17.3 million square feet), far outpacing other markets like China, which contributed 17% of the region’s total demand.

As a result of this surge in demand, average rental rates for Grade A office spaces in major Indian cities rose by up to 10% annually in Q3 2024. This uptick follows a significant recovery phase in India’s office market, which is now poised for expansion. Experts expect rental growth to continue across the country’s top cities, aligning with trends seen in markets like Australia, Japan, and New Zealand.

“The Indian office market is entering a new phase of growth, with increasing demand for premium, ESG-aligned office spaces,” said Arpit Mehrotra, Managing Director of Office Services at Colliers India. “Occupiers’ appetite for best-in-class facilities and green-certified buildings is driving leasing activity, and we expect to see further rental firming as developers integrate sustainable features into new developments.”

The report also notes that demand for high-quality office spaces is a key driver of growth across the region, as businesses prioritize productivity, sustainability, and adaptability in their work environments. This trend, known as the “flight to quality,” is particularly noticeable in India, where premium office spaces are seeing the most significant uptake.

“With the region’s economic outlook remaining positive, office markets are expected to stay resilient, with a strong focus on sustainable, high-quality workspaces,” said Vimal Nadar, Senior Director & Head of Research at Colliers India. “India’s commercial real estate market, in particular, is set to continue its upward trajectory, with a projected uptake of 5-6 million square meters (54-64 million square feet) of Grade A office space in 2024.”

As supply catches up with demand, significant project completions in major APAC markets are expected to fuel further growth in the coming quarters. While rental growth is anticipated to remain stable across the region, the supply-demand balance will play a crucial role in shaping future market conditions.

Mike Davis, Colliers’ Managing Director of Occupier Services in APAC, concluded: “The office market in Asia Pacific is primed for continued growth, driven by the evolving needs of occupiers who prioritize flexibility, sustainability, and innovation in their workspaces.”

The data suggests a promising future for the Asia Pacific office market, with India leading the way as a key player in the region’s commercial real estate landscape.

Also Read: Metro Group Unveils ‘The Presidential’ in Thane with India’s First Live Construction Tracker

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Excelerate 3.0 will also highlight NAREDCO Maharashtra’s PROPEL initiative, which aims to foster innovation and empower emerging entrepreneurs in the real estate sector. As India’s real estate industry works towards a $1 trillion target by 2030, the event will emphasize the importance of innovation in meeting the sector’s ambitious goals.

The event will feature a series of thought-provoking panel discussions, including Build Fast, Build Quality, and Build Sustainable, where industry experts, leaders, and innovators will share best practices and cutting-edge technologies that can drive faster, more sustainable, and higher-quality construction. These discussions aim to provide valuable insights into optimizing processes, while contributing to the sustainable growth of the built environment.

“Excelerate 3.0 reflects our commitment to advancing innovation and sustainability in the construction industry. This platform will bring together the next generation of leaders to collaborate, ideate, and develop transformative solutions that will help the sector become more resilient and tech-driven,” said the President of NAREDCO Maharashtra.

The event is expected to serve as a vital forum for collaboration, enabling participants to explore new industry standards, exchange ideas, and discuss how to tackle the challenges of tomorrow’s construction landscape.

NAREDCO Maharashtra NextGen is confident that Excelerate 3.0 will act as a catalyst for creating sustainable, technology-driven solutions that will accelerate the development of India’s real estate and infrastructure sectors.

With its carefully curated agenda, Excelerate 3.0 promises to deliver deep insights into the future of construction, inspire meaningful dialogues, and establish a clear roadmap for sustainable growth within the industry.

Also Read: Oberoi Realty Records Rs 1,348 Crore in Gross Bookings at Oberoi Garden City Thane Launch

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Innov8’s coworking spaces are designed as tech-enabled workspaces, equipped with advanced audiovisual systems and secure access to facilitate seamless business operations. The centers prioritize connectivity and accessibility, situated close to key transit hubs like metro stations and airports, all while maintaining affordability.

Health and safety are paramount for Innov8, which adheres to strict hygiene protocols and regular sanitization practices. The company also emphasizes sustainability through eco-friendly measures, including energy-efficient lighting and effective waste management systems.

The demand for coworking spaces in India is on the rise, with a report from private equity firm Avendus projecting that the country’s workspace market will grow to 126 million square feet by 2028, up from 61 million square feet in 2023. This growth reflects shifting market dynamics as global capacity centers, startups, solopreneurs, SMEs, and larger enterprises increasingly turn to coworking solutions to enhance productivity and collaboration while optimizing operational costs.

Ritesh Malik, Founder of Innov8, noted that the decision to expand is driven by rising inquiries and occupancy rates, alongside the evolving needs of modern professionals. He highlighted the company’s operational efficiency and competitive pricing strategy as key factors supporting this growth.

Pankhuri Sakhuja, Business Head of Innov8, added that the company is focused on expanding in areas where the demand for flexible, collaborative workspaces is accelerating. Innov8 aims to meet diverse business needs through customized offerings and robust technology integration, facilitating a smooth transition for organizations seeking growth in today’s dynamic economic landscape.

Founded in 2015, Innov8 is rapidly expanding its footprint across India and caters to a diverse clientele, providing workspace solutions to a range of prominent companies.

Also Read: MahaRERA Clarifies Approval Process for Promoter Rights and Liabilities

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The BFSI industry has significantly increased its footprint in India’s overall gross office leasing, with its share rising from an average of approximately 11% during 2017-2019 to between 17% and 18% over the past two years. So far in 2024, the sector has accounted for 16.4% of the total 53.4 million square feet leased across the top seven Indian cities, including Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Pune.

Global players are driving much of this growth, accounting for about two-thirds of all office space leased by the BFSI sector in the past six years. Mumbai, dubbed the “financial capital of India,” leads the domestic market with 44% of leasing activity, while Bengaluru captures 30%, highlighting its role as a hub for foreign firms due to its thriving tech ecosystem.

“The BFSI sector is experiencing remarkable growth, creating significant opportunities in the office real estate market,” said Rahul Arora, Head of Office Leasing & Retail Services at JLL India. “With the fintech market projected to grow from $584 billion to approximately $1.5 trillion by 2025, the demand for office spaces is set to rise further.”

Dr. Samantak Das, Chief Economist and Head of Research at JLL, noted that the ongoing digital revolution and government initiatives such as UPI, along with the adoption of technologies like AI and blockchain, are reshaping the sector. He emphasized the need for innovative, technology-enabled workspaces that cater to the evolving requirements of financial institutions.

Looking ahead, the BFSI sector’s robust growth trajectory is expected to continue, driven by advancements in technology, a skilled talent pool, and enhanced infrastructure across major cities. The rising demand for specialized skills in areas such as data science and cybersecurity is anticipated to influence both office location and design choices, while an increased focus on sustainability and ESG goals will further shape the sector’s needs.

Also Read: Paving the Way for a Sustainable Future, One Green Building at a TimeBy Mahesh Prabhu, Chief Executive Officer of Century Real Estate Holdings

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The transition to renewable energy at four key campuses—Candor TechSpace in Sector 48 and 21 in Gurugram, and Sector 62 and 135 in Noida—aims to cut carbon emissions by over 20,000 metric tons annually, equivalent to removing about 4,300 cars from the roads each year.

This collaboration not only supports Brookfield Properties’ sustainability objectives but also offers tenants a cost-effective energy solution without the need for additional contracting or capital expenditures. The renewable power is delivered directly to the properties, ensuring compliance with sustainability commitments.

Brookfield’s Bikaner Solar Power Project, which boasts a capacity of 550 MWp, is one of India’s largest ISTS-connected renewable energy parks. Its power output is designed to meet the energy needs of the commercial and industrial sector. The project was financed by the Brookfield Global Transition Fund (BGTF I), which focuses on investments aimed at facilitating the global transition to a net-zero carbon economy.

Ananya Tripathi, Managing Director of Real Estate in India at Brookfield, emphasized the importance of addressing environmental issues and creating positive outcomes for stakeholders. “This collaboration brings us closer to our goal of using 100% renewable power across Brookfield Properties by 2027,” she stated.

Murzash Manekshana, Managing Director and Head of Asset Management in India for Renewable Power & Transition, noted that companies are increasingly turning to renewables for cost savings, reduced carbon footprints, and improved energy security. He highlighted Brookfield’s commitment to offering tailored solutions to help Indian corporates meet their sustainability objectives.

Recognized as an EDGE Champion by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) for its commitment to green building practices, Brookfield Properties aims to achieve 100% renewable energy across its 55 million square feet of portfolio in India by 2027. With over 450 leading tenants, the company is dedicated to supporting their sustainability goals and advancing shared objectives through innovative energy solutions.

This strategic partnership not only enhances the value offered to tenants but also reinforces Brookfield Properties’ leadership in sustainable development, setting benchmarks for responsible development in India.

Also Read: Data Benchmarking Institutions Launched to Empower Indian REIT Investors

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