#United States #Huntersville #Crescent Communities #AXIAL #Chuo-Nittochi

Introduction

In a significant development project, Crescent Communities, LLC, a subsidiary of Sumitomo Forestry Co., Ltd., is collaborating with Chuo-Nittochi Co., Ltd. to build a multi-tenant logistics facility near Charlotte, North Carolina. This expansive project is set to break ground in February 2026 and aims for completion by April 2027, promising to revolutionize logistics operations in the region.

Project Overview

The logistics facility will be established on approximately 42.3 acres, featuring a total rental area of 43,203 square meters split across two buildings. One of the key design features is the rear-load configuration, which optimizes efficiency for cargo handling and vehicle circulation. Additionally, the adoption of tilt-up construction methods will help to balance cost savings with reduced construction timelines. The facilities will be developed under the AXIAL brand, focusing on superior access to major transportation networks and integrating design elements that utilize wood and prominent branding to enhance visibility.

Location Advantage

Charlotte is strategically situated in the heart of the Eastern United States and enjoys a population growth rate that surpasses the national average. The city is home to regional headquarters of several Fortune 500 companies—such as Bank of America and Lowe’s—positioning it as a vital economic hub in the Southeast. The new logistics center, located in Huntersville, just a 20-minute drive from downtown Charlotte and 25 minutes from Charlotte Douglas International Airport, boasts excellent proximity to vital highways such as I-85, I-77, and I-485, which facilitate quick distribution to key metropolitan areas, including Atlanta and New York.

Background of the Collaboration

This collaborative venture marks the seventh joint real estate project between Sumitomo Forestry Group and Chuo-Nittochi, following successful developments in various cities such as Washington D.C., Denver, and Boston. The project will be managed by a special purpose company (SPC), co-owned by Chuo-Nittochi’s subsidiary and Crescent Communities. Sumitomo Forestry Asset Management, another subsidiary, will oversee project coordination and management.

Sumitomo Forestry entered the real estate development field in 2017, rapidly expanding its portfolio, which is expected to include over 5,300 multi-family housing units by 2024, ranking it fourth in the U.S. market. On the other hand, Crescent Communities is keen to tap into new business opportunities in the region while already having a solid track record in developing rental housing and logistics facilities in the Charlotte area.

Future Directions

Looking ahead, Sumitomo Forestry aims to globally expand its array of wood-based businesses which encompass timber management, building materials production, and renewable energy initiatives. Their long-term vision, “Mission TREEING 2030”, targets increased carbon sequestration through wood construction and solutions for society's decarbonization efforts.

Similarly, Chuo-Nittochi is focused on furthering its overseas business and enhancing joint ventures with reputable development partners. Their recent establishment of an office in San Francisco exemplifies their commitment to international growth and environmental stewardship through high-performance real estate development and renewable energy projects.

The partnership for this logistics facility is set to strengthen real estate development relations while not only enhancing operational efficiencies but also contributing positively to the local and global sustainability goals.

Facility Details

• - Name: AXIAL Commerce Station
• - Location: 12705 Commerce Station Dr, Huntersville, NC 28078
• - Total Rental Area: 43,203 square meters (465,036 square feet)
• - Structures: Two buildings made of reinforced concrete, single-story
• - Construction Start: February 2026
• - Completion Date: April 2027

Companies Involved

Crescent Communities, LLC

• - Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina
• - CEO: Brian Natwick
• - Employees: Approximately 200 (as of November 2025)
• - Founded: 1904, expanding into real estate since 1990

Sumitomo Forestry Asset Management

• - Headquarters: Chiyoda, Tokyo
• - Established: November 2020
• - Focus: Private placement and investment advisory related to investment funds formed by the Sumitomo Forestry Group.