The growth of Brazilian e-commerce continues at an accelerated pace. According to the Brazilian Association of Electronic Commerce (ABComm), online sales are expected to reach a revenue of R$ 224.7 billion by 2025, a 10% increase compared to 2024. This projection reflects the rise in order volumes, diversification of sales channels, and consumers’ demands for fast and precise deliveries. This scenario puts pressure on the entire logistics chain, especially warehouses and distribution centers, which become key components in the digital retail machinery.
With more activity, extended shifts, and high product turnover, logistics centers need to operate with maximum efficiency. One critical factor is lighting: light quality directly impacts team productivity, safety in cargo handling, and visibility for reading codes, labels, and sensors.
Energy efficiency and operational safety
According to a survey by the Brazilian Lighting Association (Abilux), replacing outdated systems with more robust and efficient solutions can lead to savings of up to 60% in warehouses’ electricity consumption. Additionally, poorly lit environments have a 20% higher chance of workplace accidents, according to data from the International Labour Organization (ILO).
In this context, manufacturers and logistics operators have been betting on technologies such as high-performance LED luminaires, motion sensors, automated lighting control systems, and IP-protected luminaires for dusty or humid areas. The expectation is that by 2026, over 75% of the country’s distribution centers will be fully equipped with smart lighting solutions, as projected by the consulting firm Markets and Markets.
The choice of warehouse luminairesinvolves criteria such as power, durability, impact resistance, and ease of maintenance. High-performance models help optimize space layouts, reduce blind spots, and maintain visual comfort for operators. In regions with higher exposure to dust or thermal variations, such as inland warehouses or those near industrial areas, the use of sealed housings and anti-corrosive materials is essential.
High-performance logistics require planning
With the forecast that over 435 million purchases will be made in Brazilian e-commerce in 2025, logistical challenges go beyond storage. Speed in picking, traceability, and loss reduction depend on smooth operations, which in turn rely on well-lit environments with full product visibility and efficient signaling.
Companies that invested in warehouse retrofits, replacing fluorescent or metal vapor lamps with automated LED systems, managed to reduce order picking time by up to 40% for large volumes.
Modernizing infrastructure also aligns with ESG goals, as efficient systems contribute to reduced emissions and energy waste. Additionally, many companies are integrating smart lighting with their Building Management Systems (BMS), enabling real-time monitoring of consumption, faults, and preventive maintenance needs.
Investment with guaranteed return
Although modernizing logistics lighting requires upfront investment, the return is usually quick. According to Abesco (Brazilian Association of Energy Conservation Companies), lighting efficiency projects in industrial environments have an average payback period of 12 to 18 months.
Faced with increasing competition and pressure for shorter delivery times, lighting—often overlooked—has become a key differentiator for players handling high e-commerce volumes. By 2025, it is expected to gain even more importance in the strategic decisions of companies seeking scale, efficiency, and safety in their operations.
