The Spanish logistics market is currently characterised by high demand for space, a shortage of available land and planning processes that can delay the development of new projects for years. Against this backdrop, the brownfield model – based on the conversion or modernisation of existing assets – is gaining prominence as an alternative to greenfield development, which involves building facilities from scratch.

The reuse of assets is gaining strategic value

The conversion of obsolete industrial or logistics premises makes it possible to capitalise on established locations, close to transport corridors, urban areas and consumer hubs. Compared with greenfield development, these projects can shorten certain timelines and promote a more efficient use of existing land.

This trend is particularly significant in markets where finding new plots of land is becoming increasingly difficult. Factors such as available electricity capacity and administrative procedures influence the setting up of new facilities.

Not all assets are reconvertible, particularly in the medium term

The location, however, does not in itself guarantee the viability of a brownfield project. Many older facilities have limitations such as insufficient headroom, a lack of loading bays, restricted manoeuvring areas, inflexible structures, or outdated energy and safety systems. Therefore, the transformation must be based on a technical, urban planning, structural, energy and operational analysis. In this way, it is possible to determine whether the asset can meet current standards and adapt to medium-term needs. In contrast, when the requirements for adaptation are too great, a greenfield project may offer greater design freedom, operational efficiency and capacity for future growth.

Infrastructure tailored to a changing logistics environment

The development of brownfield sites reflects a wider shift within the sector: logistics infrastructure must adapt rapidly to supply chains that are increasingly demanding, digitalised and efficiency-driven. Their rise does not mean the decline of greenfield sites; rather, it represents the emergence of an increasingly important alternative for expanding and modernising logistics capacity in markets where land is a limited resource.

As a global logistics operator, Operinter takes a holistic view of the supply chain. It combines sea, air, road and intermodal transport with warehousing solutions and customs services. In this context, having well-connected, efficient and adaptable infrastructure is key to meeting the needs of each operation.