Tag Archive: logistics

  1. Report on the bicycle logistics market in Germany

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    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.

  2. Logistics becomes a green issue ahead of UK elections

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    Source: Zag Daily

    Ahead of local elections across England on 7th May, the Sustainable Urban Freight Association (SUFA) has launched a manifesto which calls on council and mayoral candidates to prioritise green logistics and establish a network of microhubs for last-mile delivery using low-impact options such as electric cargo bikes.

    SUFA represents over 100 logistics companies, and has launched the manifesto as a path to tackling the distribution of ever-increasing online sales in a sustainable way. Online purchases account for over a quarter of the UK’s retail, leading to increased pressure on road networks. In 2024, van traffic was recorded at 58.5 billion vehicle miles (94.1 billion km), representing an increase of almost 10% since 2019.

    The manifesto details

    SUFA wants to see local councils “get serious” regarding local freight rather than treating it as a niche issue, and have outlined three key commitments in the manifesto:

    • Adopt a Freight Policy and Kerbside Plan
    • Commit to a three-year sustainable urban freight budget
    • Protect space for microhub networks

    Under the Freight Policy and Kerbside Plan, councils would liaise with local delivery operators to ascertain what barriers there might be to the adoption or implementation of green delivery methods. A lead official for freight decarbonisation is called for in the manifesto.

    The freight budget would involve mayoral and combined authorities co-funding regional programmes in which freight investment is aligned with decarbonisation goals, as well as high street renewal activities. Local authorities would be expected to match funding and prepare clear delivery plans.

    SUFA also calls for an integrated network of microhubs to be embedded within local transport and freight strategies with a published pipeline of sites. These hubs enable the consolidation of goods for last-mile delivery using low-emission modes of transport like e-cargo bikes.

    Kirsten Smith, Co-Chair of SUFA, said, “Every resident and business in the country relies on freight and logistics to go about their lives. This is only going to increase as more and more people switch to online deliveries or give up their own cars.” She continued: “Councils have huge powers over land use, budgets and policy that can make a big difference in terms of traffic, congestion and clean air. We want candidates to work in partnership with business to really understand the issues and challenges facing the industry as well as the opportunities.”

    Microhub expansion

    On the topic of microhubs, a new coalition was recently created in London, the Urban Microhub Alliance (UMA), which aims to repurpose underused spaces such as railway arches and car parks, into dedicated hubs for modular cargo trailers, and certified delivery bikes and electric mopeds for use by couriers. Each of the 22 London sites operational at the launch has around 100 Port e-bikes available for couriers to rent either through a daily pass or via weekly or monthly subscriptions.

    Kamil Suda, CEO of Port which is one of the UMA founding members, spoke about the need for a network of microhubs. “There is no real incentive for the logistics industry to change its entire operating flow if only one microhub is available. To convince the industry that a sustainable parcel flow is viable, there needs to be a large-scale, plug-and-play solution for delivery companies to execute the last mile.”

    Councillor Rowena Champion of Islington Council highlighted the benefits for riders in the gig economy. “We know that many delivery couriers are marginalised. Having a solution which gives riders access to bikes that are safe and maintained is so important. We want to encourage deliveries by bike and by cargo bike and we want to ensure that the riders themselves are safe.”

  3. Deliver-E Coalition aims to scale up zero-emission food and grocery deliveries

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    Source: UN Environment Programme

    A group of the world’s major food and grocery delivery platforms have together launched the Deliver-E Coalition, which aims to accelerate the shift to zero-emission deliveries on two- and three-wheeler vehicles, on a global basis.

    The coalition’s founding members – Delivery Hero, DoorDash, iFood, Mr D, Swiggy, Uber, Wolt, and Zomato – between them operate across 96 countries, undertaking an estimated 6 billion deliveries on two- and three-wheeler vehicles each year.

    The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) will host the Coalition Secretariat, providing assistance for research, administrative and communications functions. Associated partners of the Deliver-E Coalition are philanthropic platform ClimateWorks Foundation, the Government of the Netherlands, and e-commerce tech services provider Prosus.

    The Coalition’s founding Charter states intentions to “dramatically speed up the implementation of zero-emission deliveries by shifting to electric vehicles, bicycles and other means of zero-emission two- and three-wheeler deliveries, thereby unlocking economic, social, and environmental benefits for all stakeholders and the wider society.”

    Why the industry has decided to act

    The way that consumers around the world behave has shifted in recent years, with e-commerce sales in 43 countries in 2021 seeing a 15% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels. These amplified doorstep deliveries translate into greater operational pressures, both on cities, and on the businesses delivering the goods ordered online. A  United Nations assessment indicates that, without any changes to the management of last-mile logistics, urban delivery emissions would increase by over 30% in the top 100 cities globally.

    This pressure would in turn lead to an increase in traffic congestion (approximately 14%), raise healthcare costs (approximately 12%), and add around five minutes to daily commutes. Other research from the World Economic Forum (WEF) indicates that deliveries could account for 50% of the transport sector’s emissions in cities by 2030.

    Consumer pressure is also pushing for the switch to zero-emissions delivery. The WEF research includes independent assessments which show that over 70% of shoppers prefer sustainable delivery options.

    The benefits of switching to zero-emission two- and three-wheelers

    A range of benefits can be achieved through a transition to zero-emission options, compared to internal-combustion two-wheelers.

    • Last-mile delivery costs reduced by around one quarter
    • Emissions cut by almost 90%
    • Reduced urban air and noise pollution
    • Jobs creation in fields including vehicle servicing, charging infrastructure deployment, and fleet management

    Sheila Aggarwal-Khan, Director of UNEP’s Industry and Economy Division, made a statement about the coalition’s creation. “Deliver-E is industry leadership in action. Zero-emission two and three-wheeler vehicles are ready to scale: they are cleaner, quieter, and increasingly cost-effective. Through Deliver-E, companies will share what works and move faster together than any one company could alone.”

    The coalition’s collaborative approach

    The Deliver-E Charter outlines the creation of “a platform for knowledge exchange” in which members can “share learnings and expertise for an industry-wide electrification effort.” The Charter goes on to pledge the establishment of “a network of experts and essential stakeholders in the ecosystem, such as policy makers, technology companies, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), fleet aggregators and financiers,” while “supporting solutions to commonly identified barriers that prevent the vision from becoming commonplace.”

  4. Microhubs as a growing solution of last mile logistics

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    Source: European Commission

    The EIT Urban Mobility Marketplace has published an article exploring the increasing role of microhubs in last-mile logistics and their potential to enhance the sustainability and efficiency of urban deliveries across Europe.

    Urban logistics contributes to more than 25% of transport-related emissions, influenced by congestion and the prevalence of high-emission delivery vehicles. The article presents microhubs – small, strategically located urban facilities where goods are transferred from larger vehicles to low-emission modes such as cargo bikes – as one approach to mitigating these challenges. These hubs may also offer services including vehicle charging, shared fleet use, parking, and goods consolidation.

    The article clarifies the distinction between microhubs and related infrastructure, such as delivery lockers and urban consolidation centres, and emphasises the need for coordinated public-private initiatives and strategic urban planning to support their development, particularly in densely populated areas.

    Three Horizon Europe projects are highlighted as examples of ongoing microhub initiatives:

    • Logroño, Spain (DECARBOMILE project): A microhub within the San Blas Market facilitates the transfer of goods to electric cargo bikes. Additional services under development include waste consolidation and community-based deliveries.
    • Bologna, Italy (URBANE project): This pilot integrates microhub lockers and light electric vehicles for B2B logistics, with the support of digital tools to enhance operational efficiency.
    • Athens, Greece (GREEN-LOG project): The initiative is trialling micro-consolidation centres and mobile depots, featuring a shared electric vehicle and smart parcel lockers to streamline urban distribution.

    These projects illustrate various approaches to integrating microhubs in urban environments, with objectives that include emission reduction, improved logistics processes, and more efficient use of city space.

    The article can be read in full here.

  5. EIT study: Logisticians can save massively with mixed fleets of e-cargo bikes and e-vans

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    A recent study conducted by EIT InnoEnergy, an organization dedicated to sustainable energy innovation supported by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), sheds light on the comparative advantages of utilizing e-vans and e-cargo bikes in terms of both costs and environmental impact.

    Source: Logistra

    The study emphasizes that employing a mixed fleet comprising both e-cargo bikes and e-vans proves to be more economically viable for logistics companies when compared to solely relying on e-van fleets. This shift towards mixed fleets is largely influenced by regulatory measures.

    Key Findings:

    1. Cost and CO2 Savings: The study reveals that deploying a mixed fleet consisting of 80% e-cargo bikes and 20% e-vans can lead to substantial annual cost savings, projected to reach 554 million euros by 2030, while concurrently reducing CO2 emissions in last-mile logistics by up to 80%. With the e-commerce sector witnessing annual volume increases of 8-14%, logistics companies are motivated to enhance profitability while mitigating environmental impact.
    2. Regulatory Influence: Regulatory initiatives, such as Stockholm’s impending ban on internal combustion engine vehicles within city centers, are compelling companies to transition towards decarbonizing their last-mile delivery services. In response to these regulatory pressures, the study provides insights into the feasibility and benefits of integrating e-cargo bikes into logistics operations.
    3. Cost Efficiency: Regardless of fleet composition and urban infrastructure, the study demonstrates that the use of e-cargo bikes reduces the overall cost per package compared to relying solely on e-vans. By 2030, the cost savings per package could increase significantly, offering substantial financial advantages to logistics companies.
    4. Benefits for Cities: Beyond monetary savings, the adoption of mixed fleets offers environmental benefits for cities, including a substantial reduction in CO2 emissions and the elimination of a significant number of delivery vehicles. Mixed fleets also alleviate pressure on local power grids and contribute to energy savings equivalent to the annual consumption of hundreds of households per city.

    Looking Ahead

    The study underscores the potential for collaboration between cities and logistics providers to maximize the benefits of mixed fleets. Public-private partnerships offer opportunities to optimize infrastructure planning, thereby realizing the advantages in terms of sustainability, land utilization, and cost efficiency. Ultimately, the study aims to provide decision-makers in Europe with valuable insights to manage escalating parcel volumes, uphold cost efficiency, and foster flexibility and sustainability in last-mile delivery operations.

  6. Substantial emissions and cash savings to be gained from last-mile mixed electric fleets

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    A new study by EIT InnoEnergy reveals that, compared to e-vans alone, e-cargo bikes reduce the total cost per parcel regardless of the city layout and fleet mix.

    Source: Tech.eu

    A recent study conducted by EIT InnoEnergy, a body of the European Union, has revealed the potential benefits of employing mixed electric fleets comprising both e-cargo bikes and e-vans for urban logistics operations. The findings suggest that such a mixed fleet approach not only offers significant cost savings for logistics providers compared to relying solely on e-vans but also contributes to enhancing the overall quality of life in urban areas.

    The research, which examines the economic and environmental implications of utilizing mixed electric fleets, indicates that for a major logistics company handling 2 billion parcels annually, transitioning to a fleet consisting of 80 percent e-cargo bikes and 20 percent e-vans could result in substantial annual cost savings of approximately €554 million by the year 2030. Moreover, such a shift could lead to a reduction in last-mile logistics emissions by as much as 80 percent.

    Jennifer Dungs, the Global Head of Mobility at EIT InnoEnergy, underscored the growing pressures faced by logistics operators, including escalating parcel volumes, bans on combustion-engine vehicles in city centers, parking constraints, and the imperative to minimize costs in a highly competitive industry. Dungs emphasized, “This study demonstrates that e-cargo bikes are not only a sustainable solution to these challenges but also offer cost competitiveness and viability for major logistics players, both presently and in the foreseeable future.”

    The study’s findings highlight that e-cargo bikes present a cost-effective alternative to e-vans across various fleet compositions and urban layouts. In the baseline case examined, the total cost per parcel in 2023 using e-cargo bikes was found to be €0.05 lower compared to a fleet solely comprising e-vans. By 2030, this difference is projected to increase to €0.20 per parcel.

    In an optimized scenario, where an 80 percent e-cargo bike and 20 percent e-van fleet operates within a medium-sized city, the savings relative to a 100 percent e-van fleet are even more substantial. In 2023, this optimized approach translates to savings of €0.08 per parcel, totaling approximately €156 million annually for a large logistics provider. By 2030, the cost difference per parcel is anticipated to reach €0.28, resulting in total savings of approximately €554 million.

    Furthermore, the integration of e-cargo bikes into urban logistics systems could yield significant environmental benefits, including an up to 80 percent reduction in emissions from last-mile logistics across Europe’s 100 largest cities. Additionally, the adoption of e-cargo bikes could alleviate traffic congestion and competition for space by potentially replacing up to 120,000 vans.

  7. Brussels Green Deal city logistics deadline for project submission extended to 22 September

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    Source: Mobilise

    Call for projects aimed at reducing logistics emissions across the Brussels-Capital Region remains open until the end of the working week

    As part of Brussels’ Green Deal on Zero Emission Urban Logistics, the call aims to support projects that lack support and cannot see the light of day due to lack of initial funding. It is designed to stimulate collaboration within the Green Deal, and is open to existing signatories, as well as those who wish to sign on at the same time.

    The purpose of the Urban Logistics Green Deal, which was launched in April of this year, is to bring together a community of pioneering organizations that want to move forward faster and further in the transition of logistics in Brussels. At the launch, figures were shared illustrating that, while accounting for only 17% of the kilometres travelled in Brussels, freight transport is responsible for 41% of NOx emissions, 30% of fine particle emissions and 29% of Brussels’ CO2 emissions from transport. Through this Green Deal, the Brussels-Capital Region wishes to support and promote the actions of companies that are pioneers in the transition to low-emission logistics.

    The aim of the call for projects is to:

    • stimulate the Brussels-Capital Region’s Urban Logistics Green Deal
    • support a minimum of 3 projects aimed at reducing logistics emissions
    • fund selected projects to the tune of €10,000 to €300,000 per project
    • support selected projects during the 2024 calendar year
    • support selected projects with the expertise of the Mobilise research group

    For detailed submission information, applicants can head to this page of the environnement.brussels website.

  8. Fernhay eQuad: last-mile delivery efficiency

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    LEVA-EU member Fernhay developed the eQuad as a compact, agile and flexible solution for last-mile logistics.

    Efficiency in urban areas is, increasingly, an essential component of sustainable and comfortable city living. Populations are shifting towards urban centres, meaning that all the operations which keep the flow of goods and people moving need to be as streamlined as possible.

    The eQuad electric delivery vehicle is Fernhay’s green-tech solution for efficient inner-city logistics, specifically designed to be a crucial cog in the machinery of supply chain logistics. Last-mile deliveries, where goods are delivered from a transportation hub to end recipients, often face challenges such as congested traffic and delays, and are subject to environmental concerns. The eQuad provides solutions to these challenges:

    • Customisable solutions: tailored to customers’ requirements for specific logistical needs and varied urban features.
    • Compact and agile: A narrow design allows easy manoeuvring through busy urban streets.
    • Zero emissions: electrically powered, eQuad operates without tailpipe emissions, contributing towards cleaner urban air.

    Fernhay sees the eQuad as an essential part of an efficient city, representing a shift in thinking – from traditionally accepted, but inefficient, practices, to more sustainable and innovative solutions. As more businesses and city planners adopt tools such as the eQuad, the cumulative effect can lead to significantly more efficient, and less polluted, urban spaces.

  9. Call for projects: Urban Logistics Green Deal, Brussels

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    Source: VUB Mobilise

    The Urban Logistics Green Deal brings together a community of pioneering organisations with a shared ambition of moving faster with the transition to greener logistics in Brussels. This call for collaborative projects is one of the supports offered to green deal members and aims to generate new partnerships with existing and potential signatories.

    The Urban Logistics Green Deal has the following aims:
    • stimulate the Brussels-Capital Region’s Urban Logistics Green Deal
    • support a minimum of 3 projects aimed at reducing logistics emissions
    • fund selected projects to the tune of €10,000 to €300,000 per project
    • support selected projects during the 2024 calendar year
    • support selected projects with the expertise of the Mobilise research group

    Brussels launched the Green Deal Urban Logistics in April 2023 as part of its ‘Shifting economy‘ strategy and the ‘Good Move‘ plan. A credible alliance of public and private like-minded groups and organisations, the aim is to speed up measures aimed towards a less polluting logistics sector. Freight and logistics transport has many negative consequences, for example air pollution, congestion and road accidents. The Urban Logistics Green Deal aims to find an ecological solution by addressing the transport and storage of goods based upon measures that include: promotion of multimodality, connection between logistics players, development of local logistics real estate or logistics hubs, optimisation of deliveries and orders in large companies, and the use of cargo bikes or electrification of vehicles. Find out more about the Green Deal here.

    In addition to the Brussels ambitions and commitments, each of the signatory organisations individually commits to implementing their central measures by 2025. Details of signatory organisations and their commitments can be found in the Urban Logistics Green Deal convention.