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200 new jobs in logistics. The warehouse was opened
– The logistics and supply chain industry has undergone major changes in recent years. This includes, for example, automation in warehouses or the implementation of sustainable development practices. The sector is also facing market challenges, including: increasing labor costs and unfavorable changes in exchange rates, which are not conducive to competitiveness. However, especially compared to the past two years, the prospects for the industry are getting better. The inflation level in Poland is significantly lower than in the last two years, while the GDP results for the first quarter of 2024 and its forecast for the rest of the year are positive. Logistics service providers in particular are cautiously optimistic about the coming year. The market growth is supported primarily by the revival of demand and development of infrastructure, as well as Poland's important role in cross-border trade – says Michał Śniadała, head of the warehouse and industrial space department at CBRE.
According to the Confidence Index 2024 report, 3 out of 10 logistics and supply chain representatives believe that business conditions will remain unchanged in the next 12 months. 28% of respondents predict a better situation for their industry, while last year one fourth of respondents had such an optimistic approach. 42% expect obstacles in running their business, i.e. 2 percentage points more. less than in the previous edition of the study.
Optimism in investments
– The observed increase in optimism among companies planning investments in logistics and supply chain is a positive signal for the entire industry. The growing number of companies declaring their willingness to invest in the coming months proves growing confidence in the stability of the market and future economic prospects. This optimism is the result of several key factors, including: introduction of modern technologies and automation that allow companies to manage resources more effectively and thus increase competitiveness. At the same time, the development of international trade and global supply chains requires more complex logistics services, which generates new market opportunities and attracts investments – comments Bartłomiej Hofman, Managing Director of P3 Logistic Parks in Poland.
When asked about the likelihood of their companies incurring significant capital expenditures related to logistics and supply chain over the next year, the answers were positive and reflected a general increase in optimism compared to last year's edition of the report. 70% of people expect investment expenditure in the coming months. companies. This is an increase compared to last year, when 6 out of 10 respondents had such plans. The number of entities that do not plan to spend on investments has also decreased. A year ago 38 percent did not intend to invest funds in development, and currently it is 30 percent.
The forecasts for turnover and profitability are also positive. More than half of the logistics operators, manufacturers and retailers surveyed by CBRE expect their turnover to increase over the next 12 months, and 1 in 10 say it will remain unchanged. In turn, 47% expect a higher level of profitability for their company. subjects. Just a year ago, much less, 36 percent, had such an optimistic approach. One fifth indicate that the situation will not change, and one third are afraid of a decline in profits.
Employment may be lower
Although companies from the logistics and supply chain sectors are more likely to expect a decline in the number of employees than last year, most believe that these reductions will be small, at the level of 2-5%. team.
– Currently 32 percent of the entities we asked expect a reduction in employment, while a year ago it was one fourth. 3 out of 10 businesses do not plan any changes in this matter, and 38 percent intends to employ new employees. Logistics companies expect a slight decline in the number of employees, while manufacturers and retailers mostly want to expand their teams or keep them at a constant level – emphasizes Michał Śniadała.