Across the U.S., 2014 was the year of e-commerce fulfillment centers and big box intermodal users. Both sectors engaged the economic development community and drove an uptick in industrial build-to-suit and spec development around the country. The e-commerce market was a hot topic at every conference and within major research studies in 2014.
Most experts suggest that a majority of e-commerce players have not fully implemented an omni-channel strategy, suggesting even greater growth to come. In 2015, economic developers will see continued activity for large single strategy facilities and midsize multiple market facilities. Amazon has moved from the 1 million-square-foot facilities in major markets to 250,000-plus-square-foot facilities in secondary and tertiary markets.
The intermodal sector will continue to be active, with Class 1 railroads committing capital investment to expand and improve their networks because of the increase in intermodal logistics park development. Markets with new or expanded intermodal facilities will see increased activity by major shippers and 3PLs in 2015. In some markets, 2014 was a record year for the attraction of freight-based economic development projects, and 2015 looks to meet or beat the 2014 numbers.
Chris J. F. Gutierrez, President, Kansas City SmartPort