Prime industrial rents in Essex have increased by 9.9% on average over the past 12 months as the demand for floor space has continued to outstrip supply.  The most significant increase was seen in Thurrock, where rents increased by 20.6% to a new rental peak for the area of £12.00 per sq ft.  Owner occupier capital values have also been pushed up, rising by 18.4% on average as the competition for freeholds has intensified.