The Port of Dover handles around £122 billion of trade each year, making Kent one of the UK’s most critical international logistics gateways.
Gateway to Global Trade
Kent is one of the UK’s most strategically important locations for ports, transport, and logistics, offering direct access to both domestic and international markets. Positioned as the gateway to Europe, the county enables the fast, efficient movement of goods and people, making it an ideal base for businesses looking to strengthen supply chains and scale operations. With world-class infrastructure, a strong logistics ecosystem, and a pipeline of investment-ready sites, Kent provides a compelling proposition for inward investors
Ports, Transport & Logistics
Kent and Medway sits at the heart of the UK’s most important international trade corridor, making ports, transport and logistics one of the region’s most significant and fastest-growing sectors.
This strategic connectivity underpins a powerful logistics and distribution cluster along the M2 and M20 corridors, where a network of warehousing, freight forwarding, and supply chain operations serve London, the South East and international markets. A healthy transportation and storage cluster of more than 3,000 companies work across air, freight, land and sea, while recent investment in regional distribution centres, cold storage facilities, and general warehousing makes Kent a cost-effective contender for the sector.
Warehousing and transport support activities have grown by 38% since 2018, supporting almost 20,000 jobs and significantly outperforming national growth rates. This momentum is expected to continue as businesses seek resilient, well-connected locations capable of supporting increasingly complex global supply chains.
Major infrastructure investment is further strengthening Kent and Medway’s position as a logistics powerhouse. Projects such as the Lower Thames Crossing will transform connectivity between Kent, Essex and the wider UK motorway network, unlocking capacity, reducing congestion
and improving reliability for freight movement.
A compelling proposition for inward investors
Unrivalled Connectivity
Businesses in Kent benefit from exceptional road, rail, sea, and air links. Direct access to the M20, M2, and wider motorway network ensures efficient distribution across the UK, while high-speed rail connections provide fast links to London and beyond. Proximity to major international gateways, including Heathrow Airport, further strengthens Kent’s position as a logistics powerhouse.
A Thriving Logistics Ecosystem
Kent is home to a well-established and rapidly growing logistics and distribution sector. A strong cluster of operators, warehousing facilities, and supply chain specialists creates an environment where businesses can scale quickly and efficiently. From last-mile delivery to large-scale distribution centres, the county provides the infrastructure and expertise needed to support complex logistics operations.
Investment-Ready Locations
A range of strategic development sites across Kent are primed for logistics and transport investment. Key locations such as Ebbsfleet and Ashford offer excellent connectivity, available land, and supportive planning environments. These sites are designed to meet the needs of modern logistics businesses, with access to major transport corridors and a skilled local workforce.
Driving Future Growth
With continued investment in infrastructure, innovation, and sustainable transport solutions, Kent is well positioned to support the future of logistics. The county is embracing new technologies, greener supply chains, and smarter distribution models, ensuring it remains competitive in a rapidly evolving global market. For investors, Kent offers a future-ready platform to grow, innovate, and succeed.
Plan your business move to Kent…
Find out how Invest Kent can help you relocate of grow your business in Kent.