Research manager at IPD, Neil Harmse comments: "As with the OVS and other publications, like the Retail Trading Densities report, SAPOA commissioned IPD to compile this survey.

The IVS differs from the OVS in that it was compiled from information received directly from the property owners and supplemented by contributions from brokers – whereas the OVS is built solely on information received from brokers.

The Survey’s sample consists of 987 properties, covering more than 7.8 million square meters of the industrial market.

All industrial nodes that had a sample of at least 4 properties were included. All industrial types were included in the survey - including warehousing, light industrial, high-tech industrial as well as workshops and other motor-related units.

The Survey illustrates the structure of the South African Industrial Market where the largest industrial nodes house properties of a similar average size – mostly influenced by the presence of large distribution centres. These nodes also tend to be located along strategic transportation routes.

The highest rentals were to be found in the Randburg area (excl. Kya Sands & Strijdom Park. This can be attributed to the presence of motor-related units that comprise showrooms as well.

Looking forward, the Industrial Vacancy Survey is to be undertaken bi-annually  to coincide with the Investment Property Databank’s bi-annual update.

The next survey is planned for March 2009"