Spanish logistics expects to grow by 2,6% in 2026, driven by digitalization and employment.

 

The logistics and transport sector in España It forecasts a growth of 2,6% for the year 2026, according to data presented in Valencia by the employers UNO LogísticaThis progress is based on digitalization and a projected increase in employment of up to 2,1%, consolidating its strategic relevance after a positive close in 2025.

 

Economic outlook and challenges for fiscal year 2026

 

During the business meeting '2025 Retrospective and 2026 Outlook from a Logistics Perspective', organized by UNO Logística in collaboration with Autoridad Portuaria de Valencia y Economía 3The variables that will shape the course of foreign trade and distribution have been analyzed. Francisco Aranda, President of UNO Logística, has defined the new year as a period of opportunities, although marked by the "prudence, efficiency and adaptability" in an environment of global uncertainty.

 

Despite the favorable projections, the employers' association has expressed a "huge concern" due to the sustained increase in business costs and tax pressure. Francisco Aranda He stressed that the sector must face risks stemming from international markets and energy, urging the Government to maintain a stable regulatory framework: The performance in 2025 has been positive and allows us to face 2026 with cautious optimism if the Government does not introduce new regulations that attack our competitiveness.

 

Employment, talent and digitalization

 

In terms of employment, the sector estimates an increase in hiring of between 1,8% and 2,1% compared to the previous year. This dynamism responds to the need to fill specialized profiles in new technologies and the expansion of sustainable logistics models. However, the work absenteeism, which already reaches 8% in the sector, is positioned as one of the biggest brakes on productivity.

 

• Specialization: Growing demand for professionals with expertise in process digitization.
• Sustainability: implementation of the Ley de Movilidad Sostenible.
• Technology: Consolidation of the Artificial Intelligence and the Big Data as competitive levers.
• Regulation: Adaptation to the new digital time record and customs changes.

 

Logistics sector overview (2025-2026)

 

The data reflects a transformation of logistics, which is no longer considered a commodity to become a high value-added area. The main metrics and forecasts shared by [the relevant organization] are detailed below. UNO Logística:

 

Key Indicator	Data / Forecast
Projected sector growth (2026)	2,6 %
Estimated increase in employment (2026)	1,8% - 2,1%
Work absenteeism rate (2025)	8%
Main engine technologies	Artificial Intelligence and Big Data

 

To Francisco ArandaLogistics and transport continue to stand out for their ability to generate wealth and their dynamism in the logistics real estate market, which continues to grow above the European average, contributing decisively to the structuring of the national territory.

 

 

Key points and frequently asked questions about the logistics sector

What is the growth forecast for the logistics sector in 2026?
Growth is estimated at 2,6%, driven by the consolidation of the sector as a strategic engine of the economy and the efficient management of supply chains.

 

What factors are currently causing the most concern for logistics employers?
The main challenges include rising labor costs, tax pressure, risks in international energy markets and, notably, absenteeism levels of 8%.

 

How will digitalization affect employment in the sector?
An increase in employment of up to 2,1% is expected, focused on attracting talent capable of handling technologies such as AI and Big Data to improve business competitiveness.