Key findings

• The Industry, Transport and Trade sectors account for a large portion of Rotterdam employment (27%) compared to the average for the G4 cities (20%). However, ICT is becoming increasingly important, as a result of the growth in the tech ecosystem between 2015 and 2021 (+1375%).
• Signs of the widening of the economy can be seen in the Rotterdam occupier market. The share of the market held by ICT doubled between 2015 and 2020, but still accounts for only a modest proportion of the total occupier market (10%).
• The years ahead show a lot of potential for the flexible offices market, in view of the expected further growth of start-ups and relatively limited size of flexible stocks (2.2%) compared to Amsterdam (5.9%).
• There are relatively large differences between the Rotterdam office areas in terms of vacancy rates and mixed use. The conversion of vacant offices and the addition of different functions is expected to improve the ranking of office areas in terms of mixed use according to the Savills Market Indicator.
• During the pandemic, the investment market performed relatively less well and almost ground to a halt in 2021. Investors are increasingly in search of the core product, placing even further pressure on initial yields. 
• Rotterdam is a very suitable city for start-up companies to set up business not only because of the availability of talent, a facilitating City Council and an increase in flexible office space, but also in view of the availability of affordable homes. This presents a positive outlook in the future both for occupiers and investors.