A surge in data-centre construction is creating an industrial real estate business, with DHL Supply Chain adding 10 North American warehouses containing more than seven million square feet.

The facilities, due to begin operating in 2026, will store, configure and transport servers, racks, cooling systems and power equipment for hyperscale and colocation projects.

The expansion follows evidence that the artificial intelligence buildout is moving from plans into procurement. Canadian imports of computers and related equipment jumped 88% year over year in June, Statistics Canada reported. Imports are typically made as projects approach installation and commissioning.

North American data-centre demand reached 25 gigawatts in the first half of 2026, double the year-earlier level, according to JLL. The brokerage says 66 gigawatts is under construction and 95% has been committed.

DHL is also operating a forward-stocking service from more than 150 locations in the United States and Canada. The company says placing replacement components near data-centre markets will allow delivery within four hours, down from the 24 to 48 hours often required when parts are shipped from manufacturers.

The strategy targets both construction and the continuous maintenance of operating facilities, creating recurring demand after projects are completed. DHL estimates the global data-centre logistics market will grow from US$23 billion in 2025 to at least US$35 billion by 2030.

DHL has not identified the 10 warehouse locations, their sizes or whether they are newly leased or developed. It has also not disclosed how many warehouses or forward-stocking sites are in Canada.