The data doesn't lie

Our economy is not merely resisting the continent-wide stagnation but is setting the standard, emerging as a true island of optimism. The question is: how do we translate this unique position into long-term dominance in the T&L market?

Confirmation of our strength comes directly from the latest analyses, which should form the bedrock of every strategic decision in your company:

• Leader in economic sentiment: Spain is the only country in the entire analysis where the EU's Economic Sentiment Indicator (ESI) remained above the 100-point optimism threshold for all seven months of 2025.

• Historic business confidence records: Furthermore, the quarterly Business Confidence Indicator published by the INE (Spanish Statistical Office) for Q3 2025 reached 138.6 points—the highest reading in the history of the survey, which dates back to 2013.

 This positive picture is corroborated by expert forecasts. As Jorge Lloret Peiró, CEO at Monsala Business SLU, notes, the market is entering a stabilization phase that rewards the prepared:

"The forecast for the second half of 2025 anticipates a gradual recovery in both volumes and rates, influenced by a slight improvement in the economic situation. However, structural costs remain high due to fuel prices, road tolls, and wages. Rates are expected to remain stable or show moderate growth” – Jorge Lloret Peiró reported in our  “Transport in Europe” report.

Managing the paradox on the route to France

The Spain-France corridor is the lifeblood of our exports and, simultaneously, a perfect example that strength alone is not enough. This route demands a deep understanding of its unique dynamics, which, at first glance, appear paradoxical.

On the one hand, data for June and July show a decline in the number of freight offers on this route, by -10% and -14% year-on-year, respectively. In volatile times, such a signal could be cause for concern.

On the other hand, something is happening that completely defies pan-European trends: carrier interest in this route is constantly growing. Every single month of 2025 has brought an increase in the number of load searches by transport companies.

How can this market phenomenon be explained? The key lies in seasonality and the specific nature of the goods.

"The steady increase in load searches since the beginning of the year on the route from Spain to France is linked to the unique character of this lane, which is mainly a source of fruit and vegetable imports into France. During the high season, when transport capacity is fully utilised by this very segment, there is no need to search for freight! However, in the months before or after the season, a shortage of cargo emerges."  – perfectly articulated by Stéphanie Jousse, freight director at Ziegler France.

This is invaluable intelligence

The drop in offers mid-summer is not a sign of weakness but of market normalization during peak season, when most transport is handled under fixed contracts. At the same time, the rising number of searches indicates that carriers are actively seeking backhauls and off-season orders, creating immense opportunities for shippers who can plan their shipments flexibly.

From economic strength to logistical dominance

Having a strong economy is one thing, but translating that into supply chain dominance is another game entirely. The data from the report provides us with powerful tools to win this game.

The key insight is this: on the route from Spain to France, Spanish carriers handle a staggering 77% of all transport. This is an overwhelming advantage, which provides a powerful negotiating lever and a foundation for building strategic control over one of Europe's most vital corridors.

What does this mean in practice?

• Data-driven Rate Optimization: By understanding the seasonality described by Stéphanie Jousse, Spanish companies can negotiate more favorable rates during off-peak periods when carriers are actively seeking loads, while securing stable prices in contracts for the key months.

• Building strategic alliances: The dominant position of Spanish carriers allows for the cultivation of long-term partnerships. Instead of fighting for every pallet on the spot market, companies can forge alliances that guarantee reliability and predictability-commodities more valuable than gold in today's climate.

• Consolidating North-South Corridor dominance: The route to France is a gateway for further expansion. Using the report's data, Spanish firms can better plan multi-leg routes (cross-trading), strengthening their position not just as an exporter, but as a key logistics player across Western Europe.

Spain's economic strength has dealt us a strong hand. An in-depth analysis of market data allows us to play it masterfully. It is time to stop reacting to the market and start consciously shaping it.

Key Takeaways for Leaders:

1. Act from a position of strength: Your company is operating in Europe's healthiest economy. Leverage this fact in negotiations and strategic planning.

2. Use data to understand the paradoxes: Do not interpret a drop in offers as a signal of weakness. Delve deeper into the data to understand the seasonality and unique dynamics of your key markets.

3. Monetize carrier dominance: A 77% share on the route to France is a formidable asset. Collaborate with domestic partners to build alliances that strengthen the entire Spanish TSL sector.

4. Plan for the long term: In an uncertain Europe, stability is currency. Use this moment to build relationships and contracts that will secure your company's future for years to come.

Main graphic source: Google, Imagen AI Generated.