The robot effect: Growing automation in logistics facilities raises questions for the sector

Growing automation in logistics facilities is raising a number of questions for the sector, writes Stelios Bouras.

Robotics, advanced analytics and artificial intelligence are playing a growing role in the operations of logistics sites, forcing investors to make increasingly complicated decisions in what was previously one of the simplest areas of real estate to do business.

Fast-changing technology and a booming ecommerce industry mean that finding the right site and future-proofing investments is changing the way investors look at the market in search of new opportunities.

The insatiable power appetite of ecommerce tenants, along with an ever-growing need for fast internet, are making them harder to please, but investors are finding that it is worth their while. Among the larger deals seen in the sector recently signalling shifts taking place is an agreement by AXA IM Alts to partner with several key players on acquiring a direct investment in what it calls â€