Are you faced with the challenge of creating an infrastructure that truly meets the needs of your business? A well-planned infrastructure is more than just a cost factor – it's a crucial competitive advantage. Find out how to set the course for a successful future.
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The topic briefly and concisely
A demand-oriented infrastructure is crucial for the competitiveness and future viability of commercial businesses.
Modern commercial infrastructure includes digital connectivity, sustainable energy, forward-thinking mobility, and social offerings.
Strategic planning, space efficiency, stakeholder collaboration, and active site management are keys to success.
The demands on commercial properties and their infrastructure are changing rapidly. Digitalisation, sustainability, and the competition for skilled workers require a rethink in the design of commercial areas. A needs-based infrastructure for your business is no longer optional, but essential for the long-term success and value enhancement of your properties. This article highlights how strategic planning and modern concepts can create an infrastructure that optimally supports and future-proofs your company. From digital connectivity to sustainable energy supply – we present the key factors.
Increasing Demands: Why an Adequate Infrastructure is Crucial for Business
The days when a simple power supply and an access road were sufficient for industrial areas are long gone. Today, companies face a multitude of challenges that require a highly modern and flexible infrastructure. Digitalisation, for example, is fundamentally changing production processes and business models and places high demands on data connectivity. For approximately 62% of municipalities in Germany, renewal of industrial areas is necessary.
Climate change and the growing awareness of sustainability also play an increasingly significant role. Companies must not only comply with legal requirements but also recognise the economic benefits of a resource-efficient operation. An appropriate infrastructure assessment helps to consider these aspects early on. The right infrastructure is therefore a key building block for the future viability and competitiveness of your business.
Core elements of a future-oriented commercial infrastructure
An adequate infrastructure for businesses is composed of several building blocks that need to be perfectly coordinated. These elements are not to be viewed in isolation, but rather form a comprehensive system that significantly impacts your company's performance. Neglecting one area can quickly lead to bottlenecks and competitive disadvantages.
Digital Connectivity as the Backbone of Success
A powerful I&C infrastructure (Information and Communication Technology) is indispensable today. Companies need not only fast internet for data exchange but also an infrastructure that supports future technologies such as 5G or the Internet of Things (IoT). Deficits in broadband provision can significantly reduce the attractiveness of a location; 35% of German industrial parks are considered underserved in this regard. A future-proof digital connection is a must.
Modern Transport Links and Mobility Concepts
The accessibility for employees, customers, and suppliers is a classic location factor that needs to be reinterpreted. Alongside good connections to the national road network, alternative mobility concepts are gaining importance. These include:
Connection to public transport (ÖPNV) with demand-oriented scheduling.
Expansion of bicycle paths and safe pedestrian pathways.
Charging infrastructure for electric vehicles (cars, e-bikes, e-scooters); from 2025, operators of non-residential buildings with more than 20 parking spaces are required to install at least one charging point.
Concepts for car-sharing and innovative logistics solutions to reduce traffic volume.
A well-thought-out development plan is crucial here. These measures not only enhance attractiveness for professionals but can also lower operating costs.
Sustainable Energy Supply and Resource Efficiency
The energy supply of the future is decentralized and renewable. Industrial parks should increasingly focus on local energy production, for example, through photovoltaic systems on roofs or combined heat and power plants. Energy-efficient buildings and the use of waste heat can reduce operating costs by up to 10%. An intelligent rainwater management system with infiltration areas protects against heavy rainfall events and promotes biodiversity. Learn more about the impact of infrastructure on property value.
Social Infrastructure and Quality of Stay
In the competition for qualified workers, soft location factors are becoming increasingly important. These include offerings such as childcare, gastronomy, and shopping facilities near workplaces. Attractively designed outdoor areas and green spaces enhance the quality of stay and promote employee well-being. Companies in a high-quality environment present themselves more advantageously in the competition for professionals. These aspects are crucial for positive site development.
Strategic Planning: The Path to Demand-Driven Infrastructure
The development of a demand-oriented infrastructure for businesses requires careful and forward-looking planning. It is not only about meeting current needs but also anticipating future developments. Early analysis and clear objectives are essential. The IHK Nordschwarzwald recommends a coordinated regional process.
Needs Analysis and Goal Definition
It all starts with a precise analysis of the specific requirements of the resident or incoming companies. What industries are present? What production and logistics processes are taking place? What is the demand for digital bandwidth and energy? A detailed needs analysis is the foundation for any successful infrastructure planning. Clear goals for development are derived from this. Involving experts such as Auctoa can provide valuable data-driven recommendations here.
Land Use Efficiency and Flexible Use Concepts
Given scarce land resources, efficient land use is crucial. This can be achieved through multi-storey construction methods (“stacked business”) or the shared use of facilities such as car parks or canteens. Flexible plot configurations that can be adapted to different company sizes are also important. The average demanded plot sizes often range between 2,000 and 6,000 square metres. A well-thought-out planning of commercial plots is essential here.
Integration of Sustainability Aspects
Sustainability should be integrated into the planning from the outset. This includes ecological aspects such as the use of renewable energies, reduction of land sealing, and promotion of biodiversity. But social sustainability is also important, such as creating attractive working conditions and involving the local community. Many municipalities link measures and set up integrated concepts.
Involvement of Stakeholders and Funding Opportunities
Successful infrastructure development requires the collaboration of all relevant actors: municipalities, companies, planners, and residents. Early involvement creates acceptance and allows different interests to be considered. It is also advisable to get information about funding opportunities. Programmes like the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) can support financing. This is an important step for successful project development.
Sustainability and viability as guiding principles
The long-term value performance and attractiveness of commercial real estate are significantly influenced by their sustainability and future viability. Therefore, a demand-oriented infrastructure must think beyond the present day and take into account ecological, economic, and social aspects. This not only protects the environment but also creates tangible economic benefits and minimises development risks.
Ecological Sustainability: More than Just Green Facades
Ecological sustainability in commercial areas goes far beyond individual measures. A holistic approach is required, which includes the following points:
Energy Efficiency: Optimised building envelopes and modern system technology can reduce energy consumption by up to 30%.
Renewable Energies: The use of solar energy, geothermal energy, or biomass on site not only reduces CO2 emissions but also energy costs.
Water Management: Intelligent rainwater usage and infiltration relieve the sewer system and improve the microclimate. Up to 80% of the rainwater can be retained on site.
Biodiversity: Nature-oriented design of open spaces and green roofs promotes biodiversity and enhances the quality of stay.
Consistently aligning with ecological standards can significantly reduce operating costs and increase resilience to rising energy prices.
Economic Sustainability: Ensuring Long-Term Value Creation
A future-proof infrastructure is a key driver for the economic sustainability of commercial properties. Investments in modern technologies and flexible structures pay off in the long run. This includes an adaptable digital infrastructure that grows with the requirements and modular building concepts that facilitate repurposings. On average, 70-80% of the demand for commercial space comes from companies within a 20-30 kilometre radius, highlighting the importance of local appeal. Good infrastructure also attracts qualified professionals and retains them long-term – an invaluable advantage in today’s job market. The right financial strategies are crucial here.
Social Sustainability: Putting People at the Centre
Modern commercial areas are more than just workplaces; they are living spaces. High social sustainability significantly contributes to employee satisfaction and productivity. Important aspects include:
Offers for balancing work and family (e.g. childcare).
Health-promoting measures and sports facilities.
Attractive break and relaxation areas.
Good accessibility with various means of transport and promotion of environmentally friendly mobility.
Investments in social infrastructure can increase employee retention by up to 25% and enhance employer attractiveness. An early analysis of needs, for example through the ImmoGPT chat from Auctoa, can help in setting the right priorities.
Management and Cooperation: Success Factors for Long-Term Security
Implementing infrastructure that meets demand is just the first step. To ensure the long-term viability and attractiveness of a commercial location, active management and the cooperation of all parties involved are required. This ensures that the infrastructure is continuously adapted to new requirements and synergies are optimally utilized.
Professional Location Management
Professional location management plays a key role. It acts as a central contact point for companies, coordinates measures for the further development of the location, and conducts active marketing. Tasks include organizing network meetings, assisting with approval procedures, and monitoring compliance with quality standards. Active area management is particularly necessary for existing commercial areas to accompany transformation processes.
Corporate Networks and Cooperations
The formation of corporate networks promotes exchange and collaboration. Joint initiatives, for instance in the areas of energy procurement, waste management, or organizing childcare, can reduce costs and increase the attractiveness of the location. Around 87% of economic promoters consider local supply and catering services to be extremely important, which can be realized through cooperation. The legal aspects of purchasing commercial land should also cover cooperation agreements.
Continuous Adjustment and Development
The demands on commercial properties and their infrastructure are dynamic. Therefore, infrastructure that meets demand must be flexible and continuously adjusted to new developments. Regular evaluations and needs analyses are necessary to identify the need for action at an early stage. Digitalization requires an ICT infrastructure that meets not only today's but also future requirements. An impartial assessment by Auctoa can help uncover optimization potential and set the right course for the future. Contact us now to learn more or use our ImmoGPT chat for an initial assessment.
Conclusion: Investment in the Future of Your Business
Creating a needs-based infrastructure is an investment that pays off for every business. It not only increases efficiency and competitiveness, but also enhances the value of your properties and attractiveness as an employer. Given the diverse requirements – from digitalisation and sustainability to modern mobility concepts – strategic and forward-thinking planning is essential. Modern commercial locations are evolving into 'resource communities', where companies are interconnected and leverage synergies. Leverage the expertise of Auctoa to optimally design your business infrastructure and achieve long-term success. A thorough evaluation is the first step towards a future-proof infrastructure.
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Additional useful links
The ZIA Germany offers a comprehensive analysis of the current economic situation and forecasts for the real estate market in its Spring Report 2024.
The IW Report 2024 from the Institute of the German Economy Cologne highlights key location factors and investments relevant to the competitiveness of companies.
A press release from the ifo Institute illustrates how economic experts evaluate Germany as a location in an international comparison.
The DIHK Location Survey provides insights into business development and relevant data from the network of German Chambers of Industry and Commerce.
The 2020 Transport Investment Report from the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport informs about planned and realized investments in transport infrastructure.
Responses to the consultation on the Joint Task 'Improvement of the Regional Economic Structure' (GRW) can be found on the page of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action.
The 2024 Digitalization Index by de.digital, an initiative of the BMWK, assesses the progress of digitalization in Germany.
The Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) provides comprehensive data and statistics on the industry and manufacturing sector in Germany.
FAQ
What is meant by demand-oriented infrastructure for businesses?
Demand-driven infrastructure for businesses refers to the entirety of facilities and systems (transport, energy, communication, social services) that are optimally tailored to the specific needs and future requirements of the resident companies to enhance their efficiency, competitiveness, and sustainable development.
What are the benefits of investing in modern commercial infrastructure?
Investments lead to higher productivity, lower operating costs, better employee recruitment and retention, compliance with environmental standards, increased property value, and an improved competitive position.
How does Auctoa support the optimisation of business infrastructure?
Auctoa offers AI-powered property evaluations and strategic consulting. We analyse your existing infrastructure, identify potential optimisations, and provide data-driven recommendations for a needs-based and future-proof design.
What funding is available for the development of commercial areas?
There are various funding programmes at EU, federal, and state levels, such as the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), which can support the development and modernisation of commercial areas. A thorough examination of the current funding landscape is advisable.
How important is collaboration with the local authority in infrastructure projects?
Collaboration with the municipality is very important. They are often responsible for overarching planning and permits and can assist with development and connection to public networks. Cooperative approaches usually lead to better and faster results.
What are the first steps to planning a needs-based infrastructure?
The first steps involve a thorough analysis of the current and future needs of the companies, the definition of clear goals, the examination of space efficiency, and the involvement of all relevant stakeholders. Professional advice can support this process.
