Accolade, a significant player in the inmolistics sector, has announced the acquisition of a second plot in the Jundiz industrial park. This purchase reaffirms the company's commitment to expanding and strengthening its presence in Vitoria, capitalizing on the notable growth of logistics activity in Álava.
“"It's good for everyone because a new market is being created, and more companies entering attracts more attention. There's very healthy competition here. The Álava market has a lot to do; there are many 20-year-old facilities, obtaining a new activity license is very complicated for the user, so we need to replenish the stock of warehouses, and there's a lot to do."
According to the company's management, the Basque Country, and particularly Álava and Jundiz, offers an excellent mix of industry, logistics, and good connections. These regional characteristics, similar to those of industrialized countries in Central Europe, have been key to Accolade's decision to establish itself there.
In the first phase, Accolade developed a 20,000 square meter warehouse in Jundiz, reserving another 13,000 square meters for future expansion. After some initial difficulties, tenants such as Kromberg & Schubert and Rhenus Automotive arrived. Now, a local company like Cegasa has also taken up space, which has encouraged the company to reinforce its commitment. The second phase, covering 13,000 square meters, has begun with an agreement with the Swedish company BoxonTech, and DHL has also shown interest in the last module.
Among the main demands of clients that Accolade has identified in Jundiz are the new fire protection regulations and electricity consumption, as well as ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) measures and BREEAM certifications. Furthermore, factors such as employee well-being, natural light, and adequate temperature are increasingly valued.
Regarding the perception of a lack of industrial land in Álava, Accolade confirms that this situation exists 100%, especially in Jundiz. This industrial park is very attractive due to its connectivity, the presence of large companies like Mercedes-Benz, and the speed of maintenance services. Although there is land in other areas of Álava, companies prefer Jundiz to receive better and faster services.
In terms of connectivity, good road connections are fundamental. The dry port in Jundiz, with its link to Bilbao, functions well, although the transition between rail transport and the last kilometers by truck incurs costs. Foronda airport is also crucial, as demonstrated by DHL's commitment to its facilities.
To encourage the arrival of new companies in Álava, it is necessary to continue working on land development. Entities like Sprilur are doing a good job, but the process takes time. A potential five-year gap in available land is anticipated, which could affect new companies. Therefore, revitalizing other industrial parks such as Ali-Gobeo and Gamarra would be a good option to decentralize urban development and avoid traffic congestion.
