Prologis' Major Role in East Midlands Airport Logistics Hub
The UK Government's backing of a third runway at Heathrow Airport stole most of the headlines after Chancellor Rachel Reeves' big speech this week, which saw her vow to kickstart economic growth
Perhaps less heralded was Prologis being announced as the partner chosen to take forward the development of a cutting-edge logistics and advanced manufacturing park near East Midlands Airport (EMA), which is owned and operated by Manchester Airports Group (MAG)
The leading logistics property owner, developer and investor will be tasked with helping to stimulate economic growth and investment while cementing the region’s position as a hub for innovation and logistics.
Positioned within the East Midlands Freeport tax site, the new development is expected to unlock £1bn (US$1.3bn) of investment and generate significant employment opportunities across the region.
"Economic growth is the number mission of our Plan for Change to raise living standards in every part of the country," said Reeves.
"This investment in East Midlands Freeport is a clear demonstration of the UK's strength as a hub for innovation, will create thousands of new jobs driving growth in the region and strengthen the UK's position as a leader in advanced manufacturing and logistics. Together, we are kick-starting our economy, driving growth and getting more money in people's pockets."
Boosting innovation and economic growth
Located south of EMA, the logistics park will provide tax and customs benefits, along with simplified import and export processes for operators. It contributes to a broader corridor of innovation across MAG’s airports in the North, Midlands and South East of England, supporting industries like life sciences and advanced manufacturing.
The planning application, currently with North West Leicestershire District Council, outlines the potential to create up to 2,000 jobs and generate £132m (US$164.5bn) in annual economic growth per year (GVA) for the region. The project is also expected to deliver £9m in additional business rates annually.
As part of the development, Prologis will establish a dedicated logistics job training centre in Leicestershire. The facility will host the Prologis Warehousing and Logistics Training programme, equipping local residents with the skills necessary for careers in logistics.
Sustainability is a key focus, with the development adhering to the UK Green Building Council’s net-zero carbon framework. During construction, embodied carbon will be measured, minimised and mitigated, while buildings will operate with net-zero regulated energy, achieving an EPC A+ rating.
"Our partnership with MAG aims to realise the full potential of this strategic hub for international logistics," adds Paul Weston, Regional Head at Prologis UK.
"Our shared vision is to leverage the Freeport status and central location of EMA to create a high-impact gateway that drives economic growth, innovation and employment opportunities across the Midlands. By bringing our expertise in logistics developments to the table, we are confident that our partnership will unlock significant benefits for both the local community and the broader UK economy."
EMA as a strategic logistics hub
With its central location, excellent motorway links and extensive cargo capabilities, EMA stands as the UK’s leading airport for express freight. Anticipating double-digit growth in air cargo volumes by 2025, EMA is scaling its operations to meet rising demands, with cargo volumes projected to grow by 54% by 2043.
The airport already serves as a powerful catalyst for investment in the East Midlands Freeport area, attracting advanced manufacturers and businesses across sectors like aeronautics, automotive, retail, pharmaceuticals and logistics. The latest development further strengthens EMA’s role in connecting regional businesses to global markets.
MAG aims to position its three airports as economic hubs driving innovation in key sectors, supporting the government’s Industrial Strategy objectives.
Prologis, meanwhile, brings extensive experience in developing logistics parks near major global airports, including London, Amsterdam and New York.
"I’m delighted to announce Prologis as our global development partner and excited by the prospect of unlocking significant investments in East Midlands Freeport for the region," comments Steve Griffiths, Managing Director of EMA.
"This is an exciting step forward for growth in and around the airport, as our unrivalled cargo operation continues to act as a catalyst for investment in our region and we look at ways to build on its success."
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