New research published by Jones Lang LaSalle has highlighted a continuing expansion of investor activity in the European logistics sector over recent months.

According to the organisation's first-quarter report for 2013, investment volumes were more than twice the level witnessed during the same period last year at €3 billion (£2.52 billion), while they were also up by five per cent on the preceding three-month period.

Tom Waite, associate director of European capital markets at Jones Lang LaSalle, said: "The encouraging first quarter activity confirms our positive growth expectations for 2013. Investors continue to seek greater exposure to the sector, attracted by healthy income returns."

The news follows more recent positive developments for UK logistics providers, with the latest data from the AA highlighting a 3p per litre reduction in average petrol prices that is to take effect in the coming weeks.

It follows a significant slump in the wholesale price of fuel in recent weeks.