In mid-September, the bulwiengesa Commercial Real Estate Initiative held its network meeting at Peters Development in Hamburg. The focus was on current market developments and innovative concepts for the light industrial segment.

Half-yearly report: key findings in advance

Alexander Fieback and Daniel Sopka from bulwiengesa opened the meeting with a preview presentation of the key findings of the upcoming half-yearly report. They then moderated an intensive expert discussion on the current market situation. The participants jointly analysed the demand situation, rent trends and potential vacancy risks in the commercial real estate segment.

Clear consensus: acute demand for space

The panel of experts came to a clear conclusion: there is an urgent need for light industrial and flex space on the market. Demand is particularly focused on smaller units tailored to SMEs. There is a significant gap between supply and demand in this area.

Practical example: Hanse Gewerbehöfe under expert scrutiny

Jakob Peters and Steffen Schaack from Peters Development presented their concept for Hanse Gewerbehöfe and subjected it to a constructive fact check by the initiative members. Their approach: modular, combinable, ready-to-move-in flex space units specifically for smaller companies in the skilled trades, manufacturing and warehousing sectors. These units are deliberately smaller than those in the classic light industrial segment, thereby strategically expanding the range of offerings ‘downwards’.

Peters Development is pursuing an ambitious growth strategy. Fifteen plots of land have been purchased to date, with around 30 more under negotiation. Over 100 locations are to be realised by the end of the second quarter of 2026. At the same time, the company is expanding its range of services for the commercial courtyards in order to offer tenants greater efficiency.

Conclusion: Practice-oriented dialogue drives the segment forward

Such practice-oriented discussions between market research and project development are valuable for further segment analysis and development. The direct exchange between experts and practitioners creates a sound understanding of current market dynamics and future developments in the field of corporate real estate.

The complete half-year report of the Corporate Real Estate Initiative will be published shortly.