CBRE Reports Growth in Data Center Services
CBRE generated more than $3 billion in infrastructure-related revenue in 2025 and nearly $950 million in the first quarter. The company manages about 1,300 data centers globally and is expanding training programs for technical workers.
FortuneCBRE, the world’s largest commercial real estate services firm, reported strong growth in its data center and critical infrastructure businesses during the first quarter. The company said its data center leasing revenue more than tripled year-over-year. It also announced plans to open two training centers this summer near airports in Ohio and Indianapolis.
The company generated more than $3 billion in infrastructure-related revenue in 2025 and nearly $950 million in the first quarter alone. Critical infrastructure activities accounted for roughly 14% of core EBITDA in 2025, up from about 3% in 2021. CBRE also created a dedicated critical infrastructure services unit focused on data centers, telecom, and power infrastructure.
2 billion in November 2025 and Direct Line Global in June 2024.
CBRE currently manages about 1,300 data centers globally, serves as project manager for roughly 150 facilities, and controls more than 30 development sites. The company said it has secured dozens of potential data center sites and works with major tech companies on land entitlements and power and water access.
Sulentic said finding qualified technical labor has become the biggest challenge. U.S. training centers expected to teach thousands of technicians and skilled trades workers. The first two sites are set to open this summer. Financial analyst Stephen Sheldon at William Blair said CBRE has the most exposure in the data center space and has been more proactive than competitors including JLL, Cushman & Wakefield, and Collier.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
4 events- June 2024
CBRE acquired Direct Line Global, a data center services provider.
1 sourceFortune - November 2025
CBRE acquired Pearce Services for $1.2 billion.
1 sourceFortune - April 23
CBRE reported 19% year-over-year revenue growth on earnings call.
1 sourceFortune - April
CBRE issued shareholder letter on critical infrastructure activities.
1 sourceFortune
Potential Impact
- 01
CBRE plans to open two training centers for data center technicians this summer.
- 02
The company expects its data center business to outgrow the rest of the firm for some time.
- 03
CBRE will continue acquiring land and providing services for hyperscale projects.
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