Source: Pedelec Elektro Fahrrad Image credit: German Bicycle Logistics Association (RLVD)

The German Bicycle Logistics Association (RLVD) has cooperated with the Wildau University of Applied Sciences for this report on the sector’s 2026 status, with figures demonstrating a good starting position. However it is noted that its ecosystem has stagnated for the first time with no profit. It reports that last year cargo bikes were used to travel approximately 5.4 million kilometres, calculated to having saved around 1,400 tonnes of CO₂.

The report indicates that after years of growth, the German bicycle logistics sector has stagnated for the first time. Although its figures demonstrate stable development, they do not reveal the typical growth rates as shown in previous years, with the report citing a weak economic situation and political framework conditions as the main reasons.

Stable stagnation, but the employment rate has doubled since 2020

The sector’s total revenue of €189.5 million is almost the same as the previous year. In terms of employment, there are currently 5,486 people working in the sector’s ecosystem, a moderate decrease in comparison to the previous year. However, employment has been more positive in the long term, with the number of jobs having doubled since 2020.

Bicycle logistics production and operation figures

Cargo bike and trailer production numbers have remained steady at approximately 37,000 units annually. The number of operating bike logistics companies has decreased from 112 to 107, interpreted as an initial indicator of consolidation, which is typical of more mature markets.

Positives in safety and climate change effects

Although the industry is experiencing economic stagnation, the report highlights the ecological benefits the sector brings to the transportation in Germany. Cargo bikes were used to travel approximately 5.4 million kilometres in 2025, which has been calculated to have saved around 1,400 tonnes of CO₂.

Like previous years, there have been no fatal accidents involving cargo bike use, reinforcing the transportation mode as a safe, urban transportation solution.

Growth in sub-segments

Although the number of transportation companies has been decreasing slightly, the ecosystem is expanding in other areas, with the number of manufacturers expanding by 8% and segments including trade, service and workshops growing by 6%.

The report also reveals cargo bike applications are increasingly diversifying with them being used for other applications beyond traditional logistics processes such as crafts, municipal services and internal transportation.

Cautious optimism from the industry about the coming years

From companies surveyed, the following numbers have stated the following:

• 84% expect at least stable revenue for 2026
• Around half are anticipating growth
• 35% are aiming to recruit for additional positions
• 46% number of employees to remain the same

In regards to the medium term period, the industry’s outlook is more ambitious, with an average annual growth of 14% expected over the next five years.

Calls for improved policymaking

The report summarises expectations of policymakers, which include calls for consistently expanding cycling infrastructure and measures for improving road safety.

The stakeholders are also calling for a legal framework for commercial cargo bikes which is innovation-friendly. In regards to economic policy, there are requests for a reliable funding environment, improved conditions for start-up and stronger CO₂ pricing on the agenda.

Perspectives from industry and research leaders

The CEO of the RLVD, Ernst Brust, has summarised that the current industry developments should be interpreted as signal for action being needed toward progressing a political framework which consistently supports climate friendly logistics solutions like cargo bikes which has have high energy efficiency, a clear advantage of over conventional commercial vehicles.

Christian Rudolph from the Wildau University of Applied Science highlights that bicycle logistics is showing resilience in established markets, and that although there is consolidation, there is no slump and innovation is continuing. He is of the opinion that bicycle logistics no longer has a niche status and is maturing further with its own independent ecosystem.

A mature market with new beginnings

The 2026 reports reveals the market is transitioning – although the rapid growth phase has ended for now, there are structural adjustments underway. Report implications state that provided the political framework adapts to the market needs, bicycle logistics can remain a significant part of sustainable urban mobility with promising prospects.