2026 Industrial Review: Whitney Taylor, Coastal Land & Commercial Group

What projects, initiatives, or types of work have been keeping your team busiest during the first half of 2026? Commercial real estate activity gained momentum toward the end of the second quarter as buyers and sellers adjusted to market conditions. The industrial market continues to be shaped by limited inventory, shifting capital markets, and changing buyer demand. Investor expectations have adjusted as interest rates remain elevated, with many now seeking cap rates. At the same time, we’re seeing a larger share of industrial transactions driven by owner-users rather than investors. Businesses are looking to secure facilities that provide long-term operational stability and control over occupancy costs. Demand remains strongest for functional, well-located properties with features such as loading docks, adequate yard space, and room for expansion. As a result, owners of quality industrial assets continue to benefit from strong interest, particularly from businesses planning for long-term growth.

What trends or shifts have stood out most to you so far this year within your industry? Our team is currently focused on industrial owner-user sales and acquisitions, helping businesses secure facilities that support their long-term operational and growth objectives. We are also active in new industrial construction leasing, working with landlords and tenants to position and lease modern industrial space in a market where quality product remains in demand. In addition, we’re seeing increased activity from investors completing 1031 exchanges into industrial properties, as the asset class continues to offer stable, long-term investment potential. Across all of these assignments, we work closely with clients to evaluate market conditions, identify opportunities, and develop real estate strategies that align with their business and investment goals.

What challenges or opportunities have had the biggest impact on your business during the first half of 2026? One of the biggest challenges for industrial users is aligning all the moving pieces of a real estate transaction. Whether relocating, expanding, or constructing a new facility, businesses must carefully coordinate lease expirations, permitting, construction timelines, financing, and closing dates. A delay in any of these milestones can have a ripple effect, impacting operations, occupancy, and project costs. At the same time, limited inventory continues to make it difficult to find the right facility, particularly for owner-users with specific operational requirements. Businesses that begin the process early have a significant advantage, giving them the flexibility to evaluate existing buildings, new construction, or build-to-suit opportunities. In today’s market, the most successful industrial transactions are driven by proactive strategy rather than reacting to an impending deadline.

As we look ahead to the second half of the year, what are you watching most closely? Industrial remains my favorite asset class because the demand drivers remain strong. Manufacturing continues to return to North America, companies are carrying more inventory closer to their customers, and e-commerce continues to drive demand for well-located distribution and fulfillment space. Growth in data centers, life sciences, and advanced manufacturing is creating additional demand for modern industrial facilities throughout the region. In New Hampshire and Massachusetts, I believe modern industrial buildings remain excellent long-term investments. With limited industrial inventory and relatively few new projects coming online in many markets, quality industrial assets continue to perform well. For investors and owner-users alike, the long-term outlook for well-located industrial real estate remains very positive.