Despite years of economic uncertainty, rising interest rates, and shifting tenant demand, commercial real estate leaders around the globe are signaling renewed confidence in the market. According to Deloitte’s latest Global Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Executive Survey, a strong majority of industry leaders plan to increase their commercial real estate investments this year, with industrial real estate emerging as one of the most compelling sectors.
For investors and owner-users in Southern California, particularly Orange County’s industrial market, this data reinforces what seasoned professionals already know: well-located, functional industrial assets remain one of the most resilient and in-demand property types. At Johnston Pacific Commercial Real Estate, we see this trend playing out daily on the ground, supported by more than 35 years of experience in the South Orange County industrial market.
CRE Executives Are Leaning Back Into Growth
Deloitte’s survey gathered insights from hundreds of senior CRE executives worldwide, including CEOs, CFOs, and investment leaders overseeing portfolios valued at hundreds of millions—or billions—of dollars. The headline finding is clear: roughly three-quarters of respondents plan to increase their real estate investment allocations in 2026.
This shift marks a meaningful change from the cautious stance many investors adopted over the past two years. While challenges remain, executives now see pricing adjustments, motivated sellers, and long-term demand fundamentals as reasons to re-enter the market strategically rather than sit on the sidelines.
Why Industrial Real Estate Continues to Lead
Among all asset classes, industrial commercial real estate stands out as a top investment priority, both globally and locally. Deloitte’s findings echo a broader market reality: logistics, manufacturing, warehousing, and flex industrial properties are benefiting from structural demand drivers that extend far beyond short-term economic cycles.
Key drivers include:
- Continued reshoring and nearshoring of manufacturing
- E-commerce and last-mile delivery growth
- Supply chain reconfiguration
- Limited new industrial land availability in infill markets
In Orange County and South Orange County, these pressures are even more pronounced. Industrial inventory remains constrained, zoning is restrictive, and replacement costs continue to rise, factors that help support long-term asset value and rent stability.
At Johnston Pacific, we specialize exclusively in industrial and commercial properties, allowing us to guide clients toward buildings that align with operational needs, growth plans, and long-term investment objectives.
Executives Are Targeting Value, Not Just Volume
Deloitte’s survey also highlights a critical nuance: while investment activity is increasing, capital is being deployed more selectively. CRE leaders are prioritizing assets with strong fundamentals, functional layouts, and long-term relevance.
In practical terms, this means:
- Favoring well-located industrial buildings over speculative development
- Seeking properties with clear exit strategies
- Targeting markets with proven tenant demand
This disciplined approach mirrors how Johnston Pacific advises clients. Whether representing buyers, sellers, or owner-users, our focus is on matching the right building to the right business, not simply chasing deals.
Capital Is Evolving, And Opportunity Comes With It
One challenge noted in Deloitte’s findings is access to traditional financing. While banks remain cautious, many CRE executives are successfully navigating the environment through private capital, joint ventures, and alternative lending sources.
This evolving capital landscape creates opportunity, particularly for buyers who understand deal structure and timing. In Southern California, we’re seeing:
- Increased seller flexibility
- Creative financing solutions
- Off-market opportunities driven by relationships
With decades of local market experience, Johnston Pacific helps clients navigate capital constraints, negotiate effectively, and uncover opportunities others miss.
Technology and Data Are Shaping Smarter CRE Decisions
Another theme from Deloitte’s survey is the growing role of technology and data-driven decision-making in commercial real estate investment. CRE executives are increasingly using analytics, market intelligence, and forecasting tools to guide acquisitions and leasing strategies.
At the local level, this reinforces the value of working with a brokerage that understands not just data—but how to interpret it within a specific submarket. Johnston Pacific combines market analytics with first-hand knowledge of:
- Tenant demand trends
- Real-time leasing velocity
- Submarket pricing nuances
- Building-specific functional advantages
Data may inform decisions, but local expertise closes deals.
What This Means for Industrial Investors in Orange County
Deloitte’s global survey confirms what we see firsthand: commercial real estate investment momentum is returning, and industrial properties remain at the center of that resurgence.
For Orange County investors, this means competition will increase, but so will opportunity. Those who move strategically, understand local conditions, and align with experienced advisors will be best positioned to succeed.
Whether you are:
- Acquiring industrial property
- Selling or repositioning an asset
- Leasing space for your business
- Planning a long-term investment strategy
Timing, insight, and execution matter more than ever.
Why Johnston Pacific
For over 35 years, Johnston Pacific Commercial Real Estate has been a trusted name in South Orange County industrial real estate. Our business is built on relationships, market knowledge, and a clear focus on delivering results for our clients.
As Deloitte’s survey makes clear, confidence is returning to commercial real estate, but success will favor those who act with precision and purpose.
If you’re considering an industrial real estate move in 2026, Johnston Pacific is here to help you navigate the market, identify opportunities, and secure the right property for your goals.
📞 Contact Johnston Pacific Commercial Real Estate today at 949-366-2020 to discuss how today’s market trends can work in your favor.
