In recent years, the warehousing industry in India has experienced significant growth and emerged as a promising investment opportunity. Despite challenges faced during the pandemic, both domestic and international investors have shown confidence in the sector, making it a resilient asset class within the real estate industry.
This blog explores the factors contributing to the profitable rise of warehousing investment in India, highlighting the positive prospects of e-commerce, the impact of third-party logistics (3PL), the importance of technological investments, and the government’s role in driving demand.
The Positive Prospect of E-commerce
With the rapid expansion of e-commerce in India, the demand for efficient Warehousing Storage Solutions has increased substantially. The Indian e-commerce industry is a key driver behind this growth, prompting businesses to enhance their supply and storage capabilities to meet customer demands quickly. Warehouses play a crucial role in connecting manufacturers with consumers, especially in the battle for supremacy in quick-commerce (Q-commerce). To ensure fast deliveries, industry players are strategically increasing their inventory levels in tier-1 and tier-2 cities, leading to a surge in storage requirements in these areas.
3PL is Changing the Logistics Game
Another significant factor driving the demand for warehouses in India is the rise of third-party logistics (3PL) services. Many companies now prefer investing in 3PL providers rather than maintaining in-house logistics operations. This trend enables better management of supply chain costs and saves valuable time. The increasing reliance on 3PL services further fuels the need for well-equipped and strategically located warehouses.
Investing in Warehouse Technology
To remain competitive in the evolving warehousing landscape, companies must prioritise investments in new technologies. Customer satisfaction and ease of doing business should be the primary focus. However, the decision to invest in warehouse technology can be challenging due to the significant capital required and the complexity of implementing such projects. It is essential to identify specific requirements and strike a balance between profit expectations and capital risk.
Government Policies Driving Demand
The Indian warehousing and logistics industry has experienced a boost from foreign investors in recent years, attracted by significant policy changes and tax benefits for foreign direct investments (FDI). Systematic reforms, including the implementation of the goods and services tax (GST), corporate tax reforms, and interest rate cuts, have further enhanced the appeal of investing in India. Government initiatives such as “Vocal for Local,” “Atmanirbhar Bharat,” and “Make in India” have created a positive outlook and increased demand for industrial parks.
Developing built-to-suit warehouses in strategic locations has become increasingly attractive to investors. Developers now identify clients’ requirements in advance, ensuring a steady cash flow. Sectors such as automotive, healthcare, retail, FMCG, and electronics are driving the demand for warehouses, providing a favourable return on investment (RoI). Previously focused on residential and commercial assets, non-residential Indians (NRIs), high net-worth individuals (HNIs), private equity funds, and real estate developers are now turning their attention to the warehousing and logistics sector.
ConclusionThe warehousing industry in India is witnessing a profitable rise in investment, attracting both domestic and international investors. With the booming e-commerce sector, the growth of 3PL warehousing and fulfillment services, the need for technological advancements, and the government’s supportive policies, the future of the warehousing and logistics sector in India appears promising. As India positions itself as a global manufacturing hub with low labour costs and business-friendly policies, investor interest in the industry is expected to continue growing. In the coming years, India has the potential to become the fastest-growing large economy, further solidifying its position as an attractive destination for investment in warehousing in India.
