Why can’t companies redevelop existing industrial sites instead of using large new sites?

The Winston-Salem Dell plant was a greenfield development

The short answer is that it is possible, but not as likely. Here are some reasons why:

• Older areas require the assembly of smaller land parcels with existing buildings that in total are often more time-consuming and expensive than greenfield sites
• Older industrial buildings, though well constructed, are often unsuitable for new industry because of low ceiling heights and piece-meal layout of buildings from periodic additions
• It is difficult to assemble more than 50-100 acres because of the existing street network
• Large new industrial projects from out-of-region operate on tight timelines and require “ready-to-go” buildings or sites
• Older industrial areas are more likely to be used at lower prices by a local Class C versus Class A occupant
• Well-constructed industrial buildings can be reused for multifamily, office or retail uses, usually by local firms