Page 41 - TT June issue pdf for digital

LOGISTICS

The last-mile syndrome

The World Economic Forum last December published a white paper “Transforming
Urban Logistics: Sustainable and Efficient Last-Mile Delivery in Cities”, which
addressed the challenges and opportunities of increased demand for urban deliveries
by businesses and consumers. The study focused on the stakeholders involved in

urban deliveries including local governments, retailers and delivery companies and
called to adopt greater sustainable practices, increase infrastructure investment and
pioneer innovative solutions.

nline shopping and across cities are a common sight can also have negative impacts on
e-commerce have and with retail sales expected to health, community and economy.
grown exponentially grow 39% by 2027, reaching over According to the report, speed
since 2020 where $8 trillion annually according to of delivery is a key differentiator
clothes, home supplies, the paper, it becomes imperative for e-commerce businesses.
Ogroceries and takeaway to manage the impact of delivery Consumers use delivery speed
food – virtually everything can be traffic. as a factor in choosing where
delivered to homes or businesses However, there is a cost beyond to shop, with delivery to the
giving benefits of convenience the monetary associated with this home still widely preferred to the
and choice. Delivery vehicles convenience. Traditional delivery alternative out-of-home options.
with multiple operators visiting fleets generate emissions and Given the current status, there
the same homes and businesses contribute to congestion, which is an expected 60% average

www.trafficinfratech.com / June 2025 / TRAFFICINFRATECH 41