Einzelhandel als Katalysator für nachhaltige urbane Radlogistik? – WüLivery, ein Fallbeispiel aus Würzburg

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic is seen in many parts of society as a catalyst for transformation processes. In the field of urban logistics organization and retail landscapes, too, new stakeholders and functions are becoming established. Logistics companies are integrating local online marketplaces into their profiles and brick-and-mortar retailers are generating the ability to compete against large online retailers using bicycle logistics networks, by which deliveries can be distributed on the day of ordering (same-day delivery). In this way, the stakeholders involved potentially also make a contribution to the transformation of sustainability in the field of urban logistics systems. The focus is on the example of WüLivery, a collaborative project of the city marketing association, the business development department, bicycle logistics specialists and retailers in Würzburg, that was implemented during the second coronavirus-related lockdown in November 2020. The existing dynamics and forms of organization are presented and analyzed based on 11 expert interviews. It can be shown that urban stakeholders are essential mediators for transformation processes and retailers and that local online marketplaces can act as catalysts. That is useful against a background of planning and political communications processes for the legitimation of new transport infrastructures, as the individual groups of stakeholders begin to communicate, bringing about an increased awareness of their respective needs.