WDP News Digest - October 2018
The last day of the month of October is upon us. So, it’s time for a new WDP News Digest to bring you up to date on all of the developments in the world of logistics. After all, we’re publishing not-to-be-missed news, emerging trends, and all the interesting facts from last month… everything you need to know.
#1 Belgian logistics property market lagging behind
In recent years, eight large e-commerce companies picked the Netherlands over Belgium. This is an indication that the Belgian logistics property market is lagging behind its neighbouring countries. And, this is certainly due to mobility issues, high labour costs, night work legislation, and the lack of space. More information about how the logistics property market in Belgium has slowed down and peaked in neighbouring countries is available at trends.knack.be.
#2 Why Venlo is the new logistics hotspot
Venlo’s character has transitioned in recent years from agrarian to business parks with mega warehouses. The popularity of this region with logistics players was not due to chance. The combination of a multimodal infrastructure, plenty of space, and an acquisition policy supported by the government have attracted a great many businesses. Trends.knack.be summarises all of Venlo's assets as a logistics growth area for the low countries.
#3 IKEA uses shops as distribution centres
Last year, IKEA opened a Belgian webshop with pick-up points and home delivery. It’s a concept that is catching on because shop visits have declined 2.6 per cent. So, IKEA has reduced the size of shops and used the freed-up space as warehouses. This allows them to take advantage of the success of e-commerce and provide better service for their customers who do not have a car. Would you like to know more about how the furniture giant is combining retail and logistics? Read the entire article about IKEA’s e-commerce packages and city shops at tijd.be.
#4 New study reveals speed bumps for electric vehicles
Anyone who visited the IAA expo last month in Hanover encountered a fleet of electric lorries. DHL is already sold on the idea and has put several electric lorries into operation in the Netherlands. However, certain obstacles need to be taken care of before more hauliers join the electric bandwagon. For example, high purchase prices and unsuitable charging points. The latest UPS and GreenBiz study on electric vehicles reveals some of the speed bumps in the way. Read more on logistiek.nl.
