The Weekly Take from CBRE

Amid evolving trade dynamics, CBRE experts reveal how nearshoring, supply chain reinvention and revitalized twin-plant models are reshaping industrial markets on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border. Notably, demand for logistics space and construction activity is booming along the I-35 Corridor.Key takeaways on U.S.-Mexico Border Markets: ·      Port Laredo Surpasses Traditional Gateways: Currently the top U.S. import hub by value, Laredo’s rise reflects a structural shift in trade flows. Demand for modern logistics facilities near the U.S.’s southern border continues to grow. ·      Kansas City Leads for Absorption and Connectivity: With 28% leasing growth and strategically situated along I-35 with access to a newly unified Canada–Mexico rail system, Kansas City is emerging as a central node for North–South supply chains—ideal for occupiers seeking scalable inland distribution. ·      14M+ SF Under Construction in El Paso and Laredo.  These border markets are seeing major development of automation-ready cold storage and FTZ-enabled facilities. This signals long-term confidence and presents opportunities for early investment in next-gen industrial assets. ·      Twin-Plant Models Resurge: The return of dual facilities operating on both sides of the border is fueling demand for more sophisticated manufacturing and distribution space t. Occupiers should evaluate cross-border strategies to optimize labor and logistics. ·      Keen Competition to Secure Labor Cost Advantages: Border markets offer up to 70% labor cost savings vs. most U.S. cities, and have a skilled workforce. However, occupiers must act strategically to secure talent in a highly competitive market.

CBL Properties’ Stephen Lebovitz and CBRE’s Rich Frolik explain how malls are being transformed into high-performing, mixed-use assets. From casinos and hotels to pickleball and movie theaters, malls are evolving to meet modern demand.Key takeaways on the evolution of malls: ·      Malls are transitioning into multi-use destinations, integrating entertainment, hospitality and residential to diversify income and increase relevance.·      Financing is increasingly accessible for retail assets, with recent deals showing lender confidence and competitive debt structures.·      Success depends on hyper-local strategies, with redevelopment tailored to demographics, infrastructure and competitive dynamics.·      Malls in secondary markets benefit from large trade areas and limited alternatives, reinforcing their role as dominant regional retail hubs.·      Redeveloping legacy anchor spaces into formats that appeal to current customer wants and tastes can unlocks value and enhance long-term viability.

Join Teddy Kaplan, President and CEO of NetLease Strategy at New Mountain Capital, and Will Pike, President of U.S. Industrial and Logistics Capital Markets at CBRE, as they delve into the booming world of net lease investments. They discuss how this hybrid asset class is gaining traction among institutional investors, especially in volatile markets. Topics include the emergence of manufacturing facilities as solid assets, the strategic use of sale-leasebacks, and the nuances of geographic valuations—highlighting the critical blend of real estate fundamentals and tenant quality.

Brian Fumara, a seasoned Vice Chair at CBRE with over 25 years in industrial deals, joins Miles Harndon, a VP with two decades in commercial real estate, and Nick Firth, CIO of Industrial Outdoor Ventures, to delve into the booming Industrial Outdoor Storage (IOS) sector. They discuss the remarkable sub-3% vacancy rates and soaring rents, the hurdles of zoning that create demand for existing sites, and how IOS is emerging as a crucial player in logistics and utilities. The conversation also touches on the impacts of electrification and evolving logistics technologies.

Steven Wechsler, President and CEO of Nareit, is a leading advocate for Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs). He discusses the benefits of investing in REITs, emphasizing their structural discipline and tax efficiency. The conversation highlights how public REITs, with conservative management and lower leverage, offer stability. Wechsler also explores the global investment landscape and emerging asset classes within REITs, such as data centers and healthcare facilities, while considering the evolving needs of the real estate market post-COVID.

Gordon Dolven, Director of America's Data Center Research at CBRE, and Maja Rosenquist, EVP at Mortenson with decades of construction experience, dive into the booming data center sector. They discuss how AI is reshaping site selection strategies and the crucial need for scalable power. The shift in lease structures focusing on power usage reflects the surging market demands, while rising investment from infrastructure funds signals robust growth ahead. They also tackle construction challenges and innovative approaches to meet the needs of this dynamic industry.

Stephen M. Ross, CEO and chairman of Related Ross and owner of the Miami Dolphins, shares his vision for West Palm Beach as a burgeoning business hub. He discusses the importance of walkability and a vibrant community in attracting top talent. Ross emphasizes the thriving Class A office space market, demonstrating strong demand despite national trends. He advocates for inclusive growth through investments in education and cultural amenities, creating a well-rounded ecosystem that positions Palm Beach County alongside top growth markets like Austin.

Henry Chin, Global Head of Research at CBRE, shares valuable insights on the future of the commercial real estate market. He predicts a 10% increase in U.S. investment activity in 2025, citing recovery signs in office leasing and a rebound in demand. Industrial spaces are becoming vital, with a focus on modern facilities near consumers. Meanwhile, retail availability remains tight and rents in the multifamily sector are set to grow, particularly in the Midwest and Pacific Northwest. Opportunities in data centers and credit markets also emerge for savvy investors.

Entrepreneurs Sam Fox, a 10-time James Beard Award semi-finalist and founder of Fox Restaurant Concepts, and Brian Frakes, president of Common Bond Development Group, share insights on hospitality investments in Phoenix. They discuss how hospitality-led development reshapes urban real estate, with restaurants and hotels acting as vital traffic anchors. The duo highlights Phoenix's growth as a diverse market and emphasizes the importance of operational control for enhancing guest experiences. They also address evolving investment strategies that prioritize experience and adaptability in a post-COVID landscape.

Steve Skinner, CEO of HB Reavis, Simon Brown, Head of UK Office Research at CBRE, and Alastair Perks, Executive Director at CBRE, dive into the transformation of European real estate. They discuss the shift from new builds to adaptive reuse, emphasizing sustainability and urban renewal. Urban revitalization challenges in London and the post-pandemic retail recovery are examined, along with the resilience of office spaces in the UK market. The trio also highlights emerging opportunities in healthcare and student housing, illustrating vibrant growth amid economic changes.