Global Logistics Market Overview
The global logistics market continues to play a pivotal role in international trade, driven by increased globalization, e-commerce growth, and technological innovation. The global logistics industry was valued at over €8.4 trillion in 2021 and is projected to exceed €13.7 trillion by 2027. Logistics costs represented about 10.7% of the global GDP in 2020. By 2025, the market is expected to reach US$14.1 trillion, showcasing strong resilience despite challenges such as geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties.
E-commerce, in particular, has dramatically reshaped logistics, spurring demand for efficient parcel delivery services, digital solutions, and optimized supply chain operations. Technological advancements, including IoT, AI, and advanced analytics, have revolutionized supply chain management, facilitating real-time tracking, route optimization, and improved visibility. These technologies allow logistics providers to significantly enhance their operational efficiencies and customer service levels, adapting quickly to changing consumer demands and market conditions.
Sustainability is increasingly critical, with businesses focusing on reducing their carbon footprint through sustainable packaging, electric vehicles, and renewable energy. This environmental focus aligns with regulatory trends and consumer preferences for sustainable and responsible business practices, pressuring logistics firms globally to adopt greener operations.
Dutch Logistics Market Overview
The Netherlands holds a strategic position in Europe’s logistics landscape, serving as a crucial hub for distribution and trade. The Dutch logistics real estate market showed significant recovery in 2024, with investment volumes rebounding to approximately €3.25 billion. Prime net initial yields compressed to about 4.60%, indicating renewed investor interest and strong market fundamentals.
The Dutch logistics sector benefits significantly from its strategic location, connectivity, and excellent multimodal infrastructure, such as the Port of Rotterdam and Schiphol Airport. Demand is predominantly driven by third-party logistics providers (3PLs), reflecting ongoing globalization and e-commerce expansion. Container port traffic in the Netherlands is projected to reach 16.65 million TEU in 2025, underlining the country’s role as a vital gateway for European trade.
Key Logistics Market Trends in the Netherlands
Several trends shape the Dutch logistics market:
E-commerce Expansion: Rapid growth in online retail, projected to account for 20% of total retail sales in 2025, drives demand for advanced logistics facilities and last-mile delivery solutions. The growth of e-commerce necessitates significant investments in logistics infrastructure, including high-capacity fulfillment centers and efficient distribution networks.
Technological Adoption: Logistics firms are increasingly investing in automation, AI-driven analytics, and IoT solutions to enhance operational efficiency and responsiveness. These technological advancements enable logistics providers to streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve overall service quality.
Sustainability Initiatives: Increased focus on sustainable logistics operations, including electric vehicle fleets and green warehousing. Companies are actively pursuing sustainability certifications and implementing innovative environmental strategies to meet regulatory requirements and customer expectations.
Infrastructure Constraints: Limited land availability, zoning restrictions, and power grid congestion impact logistics real estate development, intensifying demand for existing high-quality assets. These constraints elevate the value of strategically located properties, driving further investment in efficient and flexible warehousing solutions.
eCommerce Revenue in 2025 in the Netherlands
By 2025, eCommerce revenue in the Netherlands is projected to reach US$37.89 billion, with a user penetration rate of 71.3%. Growth will continue robustly, with revenue reaching approximately US$51.39 billion by 2029, highlighting the increasing significance of digital shopping behaviors among Dutch consumers. The growth trajectory underscores the critical need for advanced logistics solutions to support high-volume online transactions and customer expectations for rapid delivery.
Top 10 Online Stores in the Netherlands (2025 Projections)
Bol.com
Coolblue
Zalando
Amazon.nl
Wehkamp
Albert Heijn Online
Mediamarkt
IKEA
Jumbo
HEMA
These platforms leverage extensive logistics capabilities, with integrated warehousing, fulfillment, and efficient last-mile deliveries critical to their success. Advanced inventory management, predictive analytics for demand forecasting, and agile supply chains enable these stores to maintain competitive advantages and deliver exceptional customer experiences.
