The demand for large warehouse space has soared in recent years, but is this likely to be a long-term trend?

Last week, Sainsbury's revealed it had postponed plans to open a new distribution centre in Devon, having reviewed its logistics network. The firm said there was "no immediate requirement" for a depot in this part of the country.

Although businesses have been forced to alter their strategies to accommodate the ongoing ecommerce boom, it seems there is still an intense clamour for sizeable logistics spaces in the UK and across Europe.

A recent study by CB Richard Ellis found that 81 per cent of industry leaders predict rising demand for warehouses and distribution centres throughout the continent in the next two years.

The biggest upturn is anticipated in Germany, while other central and eastern European countries are also expected to encounter building shortages.

Around 20 per cent of the survey respondents felt the industry would be constrained by a lack of available supply, suggesting that new warehouses are desperately needed.