Sealy & Company’s proven investment strategy Portfolio By Design, which has been in place for over 50 years, has focused on properties in highly populated areas with excellent access to transportation infrastructure also referred to as infill locations.  A significant portion of Sealy & Company’s current 31.3 million SF portfolio consists of infill industrial properties. These properties’ proximity to highways enables quicker transportation of goods, reducing lead times and operational costs. Infill locations also enhance the appeal of a property to potential tenants, leading to higher occupancy rates and rental yields. Experts believe that the demand for infill industrial space is on the rise and will continue to grow across the country, especially in densely populated urban areas.  Infill industrial property alignment with transportation networks is seen as a key factor in attracting quality investors and tenants and fostering economic growth in the region.

In a recently published Globe Street article, CBRE analyzed the Atlanta market by dividing the metro into three zones, based on proximity to highway access ramps. According to the Globe Street article, in the study, CBRE labeled all census blocks containing an on-ramp as Zone 1, then land adjacent as Zone 2, and the remaining areas not adjacent to an on-ramp as Zone 3. Next, the study added existing industrial buildings in each zone.

The analysis showed more than half of the industrial properties in the Atlanta market were in Zone 1, which is the equivalent of more than 10% of the metropolitan area’s land. That may not seem a large quantity but what’s important is that it’s becoming increasingly crowded. Of the 50 million square feet constructed in metro Atlanta over the last decade, 63% were built in Zone 1, with Zone 2 accounting for a far smaller 25% and Zone 3 even less than half of that or 12%.  From this analysis, it is clear that industrial developers are strategically positioning properties near major highways and metro hubs. This move is driven by the need for efficient transportation and accessibility to markets, which is crucial for e-commerce businesses dealing with consumer expectations of same or next-day delivery. You can read the full article from Globe Street here.

How This Relates To Sealy & Company

Strategic Alignment: The analysis aligns with Sealy’s focus on strategic location. By strategically acquiring infill properties in our growing portfolio, Sealy continues to focus on mitigating risk by operating high-quality assets for potential tenants.

Competitive Advantage: Sealy’s profound understanding of market cycles and strategic positioning near major highways provides a competitive edge in attracting quality tenants and crafting well-performing portfolios.

In conclusion, the CBRE analysis of industrial properties seeking proximity to highways in major metro hubs resonates with Sealy & Company’s Portfolio By Design investment strategy and specialization in infill industrial properties. Infill properties present opportunities for growth, increased returns, and a strengthened asset position in the market.