Tritax flags rising Chinese demand for UK logistics space as firms lease 3 million sq ft in 2025
XLRE•Chinese retailers drive UK logistics demand
Tritax Management analysis flagged rising UK logistics demand from Chinese retailers shifting from cross-border shipping to localized warehousing and fulfillment.
Chinese firms leased almost 3 million sq ft of UK warehouse space in 2025 as leasing volumes rose 21%.
De minimis change and broader demand support
Removal of the UK GBP 135 de minimis customs exemption by October 2028 is seen accelerating inventory localization and demand for Grade A logistics facilities.
Demand is expected to broaden beyond e-commerce as Chinese 3PLs expand UK networks and EV brands lift logistics needs; Chinese EV share reached 12.8%.
Turnkey, high-spec facilities are favored for speed, raising competition for scarce core sites; local advisory support was highlighted as critical for market entry.
