Insights
15 Apr 2026
Q&A with Andy Hay, CEO, Hollis
Why are logistics assets under increasing pressure?
Warehousing and logistics assets are being exposed to a combination of global and domestic pressures. Geopolitical instability is driving energy price volatility, which directly increases operating costs for occupiers, for example, utilities and fuel.
At the same time, changes to business rates are adding further financial strain. Larger, high-throughput assets are particularly exposed, as they were already managing rising labour and energy costs. The result is a tightening of margins across the sector.
What can asset owners actually control?
While asset owners cannot influence global events or tax policy, they can control how their assets are managed and optimised.
The most effective starting point is improving the quality of asset data. A clear, accurate understanding of a building provides a foundation for better decision-making, helping owners respond more effectively to cost pressures and market changes.
Why is measurement data so important?
Accurate measurement data underpins almost every commercial aspect of a property. It directly impacts valuation, rental income, service charge allocation, insurance, and business rates.
In many portfolios, inconsistencies in measurement data lead to financial inefficiencies and increased risk. Even small discrepancies, when multiplied across large assets or portfolios, can materially affect income and lending positions.
How does poor data affect transactions and asset value?
Incorrect or inconsistent data can delay transactions and create uncertainty during due diligence. Buyers, lenders and insurers now expect reliable information as standard.
If data cannot be verified, it introduces risk into the transaction, often leading to renegotiation, delays, or reduced asset value. For portfolio owners, these issues can scale quickly and impact overall performance.
How is data linked to ESG and compliance?
High-quality data is becoming essential for meeting ESG-related requirements. It supports carbon reporting, sustainability strategies and compliance with regulations such as Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards.
Lenders and investors increasingly require this level of transparency, particularly where financing is linked to environmental performance. Occupiers are also seeking better data to manage their own operational costs and reporting obligations.
Can better data reduce operating costs?
Yes. Data enables building optimisation programmes, which focus on identifying inefficiencies and reducing waste.
With a reliable baseline, asset owners can monitor performance, target improvements and reduce energy consumption. This can lead to significant cost savings, particularly in energy-intensive assets such as warehouses.
What role do energy solutions play in resilience?
Energy strategies are becoming a key part of asset resilience. Warehouses are well suited to solar PV installations due to their large roof areas and falling installation costs have improved viability.
With payback periods now potentially as low as five years and battery storage becoming more effective, these solutions can reduce reliance on grid energy and protect against future price volatility.
How does this support asset repositioning and refurbishment?
Given the challenges around new development, including planning constraints, material cost volatility and funding complexity, many owners are focusing on improving existing assets.
Detailed data allows for more informed decisions when refurbishing, repurposing or upgrading buildings. It reduces uncertainty and helps ensure that investment is targeted where it delivers the greatest return.
What is the first step to improving logistics asset performance and reducing operating costs?
The first step is data capture. Without a reliable understanding of what exists, it is difficult to optimise performance or plan effectively.
By establishing accurate measurement and asset data, owners can reduce uncertainty, improve operational efficiency and make more confident decisions in a volatile market.
How can Hollis support?
Hollis supports logistics asset owners through Measured Surveys, ESG Consultancy, Energy Solutions and Technical Due Diligence.
By combining accurate data capture with practical delivery expertise, Hollis helps clients improve performance, reduce risk and position their assets to respond to changing market conditions.
