site.btaIndustrial, Logistics Space in Sofia Shows Stable Prices, Record-low Vacancy Rate in First Half of 2026

By mid-2026, the available Class A and B industrial and logistics space for speculative leasing in Sofia is 1,488,500 sq. m., increasing by 39,900 sq. m. compared to the end of the previous year, according to a Colliers real estate market overview, published on their website.

During the first half of 2026, the traditional demand drivers in the logistics sector, namely logistics operators and 3PL providers, showed relatively low activity. Half of the absorbed space was taken up by companies from the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector by 50%, highlighting the continued expansion and strong market activity within this segment. Distribution companies represented approximately 30% of total take-up volume and also contributed significantly to demand for logistics and warehouse space.

Total take-up during the first half of 2026 amounted to 78,900 sq. m, compared to just 8,600 sq. m in the first half of 2025. The dominant share of total take-up during the period (92%) was generated by new demand, while the remaining 8% accounted for lease renewals and occupier expansions.

The total stock of Class A and B space under active construction in Sofia stands at 112,200 sq. m, with over half of the pipeline (62%) concentrated in several buildings within a single large-scale development project. Rental rates remain at an average level of EUR 6.00 per sq. m per month for Class A warehouses and around EUR 4.50 - for Class B. Service charge continues to be in the range between EUR 0.8 - EUR 1.0 /sq. m/month.

Colliers forecast shows that an increasing number of companies are seeking shorter and more secure supply chains, and in this context, Bulgaria is well positioned to attract new manufacturing investment, particularly in higher value-added sectors.

Rental levels for modern logistics space are expected to remain stable. Constrained supply and record low vacancy rates continue to support elevated rental levels.

The limited supply of consolidated and development-ready land plots in the Sofia region remains one of the primary constraints on the delivery of new industrial and logistics projects. The shortage of suitable land restricts opportunities for large-scale investment and is increasingly directing investor interest towards secondary markets and regional cities beyond the capital.

Demand for flexible warehousing solutions is expected to continue increasing, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises and e-commerce retailers. Businesses are increasingly seeking solutions that offer greater operational flexibility, shorter lease commitments and lower fixed costs. This trend may drive the expansion of self-storage facilities and other flexible warehouse formats, providing an alternative to conventional logistics and warehouse space.

The limited supply of development-ready plots and the low level of land consolidation achieved in recent years are expected to further increase upward pressure on land prices.

High rental levels in newly developed logistics projects are driving some occupiers' demand towards Class B and Class C warehouse space as a more affordable alternative.

Modern, energy-efficient buildings are expected to remain the most sought-after by occupiers and investors, with the performance gap versus older stock widening further and reflected in occupancy and rental levels for top-quality assets. Demand is also growing for facilities with semi- or fully automated storage systems, often paired with energy efficiency solutions.