UK Big-Box Market Dynamics, H1 2026

The UK industrial and logistics sector delivered a strong performance in H1 2026, with big box take-up reaching 12.9 million sq.ft., a 3.0% increase year-on-year, reflecting continued occupier confidence across the logistics market. Occupational demand remained particularly robust, with 10.9 million sq.ft. under offer at the end of H1, supporting expectations of sustained leasing activity and strong momentum into H2 2026.

Grade A big box supply increased by 3% quarter-on-quarter at the end of Q2 2026; however, availability remained 3% lower year-on-year, highlighting ongoing constraints in high-quality logistics space. This continued supply-demand imbalance contributed to further rental growth, with prime headline logistics rents increasing by 1.4% over the six months to June 2026.

Investment activity across the UK logistics market also remained resilient. Investor demand continued to come from Value Add funds, while the return of Core Capital signals improving market confidence and renewed appetite for prime industrial and logistics assets.