Logistics centers are built based on one of three implementation models:
• evolutionary
• embryonic
• virtual
The evolutionary model
consists of preparing conditions for the provision of logistics services mainly through a skillful policy of economic activation of a specific area, which includes legislative, administrative, and financial measures. Their effect is a strong saturation of this area with manufacturing, service, and commercial enterprises that require logistics support by creating incentives that influence the investment decisions of companies during the location selection phase.
• embryonic
• virtual
The evolutionary model
consists of preparing conditions for the provision of logistics services mainly through a skillful policy of economic activation of a specific area, which includes legislative, administrative, and financial measures. Their effect is a strong saturation of this area with manufacturing, service, and commercial enterprises that require logistics support by creating incentives that influence the investment decisions of companies during the location selection phase.
The embryonic model
assumes the occurrence of a factor that will influence the economic environment by providing unique services that are desirable in that location, thereby influencing the decisions of companies regarding settling in its immediate vicinity. Such a factor could be, for example, an intermodal container terminal, a customs office, or a free customs zone.
assumes the occurrence of a factor that will influence the economic environment by providing unique services that are desirable in that location, thereby influencing the decisions of companies regarding settling in its immediate vicinity. Such a factor could be, for example, an intermodal container terminal, a customs office, or a free customs zone.
The virtual model
consists of various forms of linking (e.g., informational) distributed logistics resources and tightening the cooperation of logistics operators (e.g., through various forms of associations). The goal of these actions is to supplement existing logistics infrastructure elements with additional components, develop local transport networks, and enrich the service offer while utilizing the synergy factor to increase the quality and efficiency of logistics processes.
consists of various forms of linking (e.g., informational) distributed logistics resources and tightening the cooperation of logistics operators (e.g., through various forms of associations). The goal of these actions is to supplement existing logistics infrastructure elements with additional components, develop local transport networks, and enrich the service offer while utilizing the synergy factor to increase the quality and efficiency of logistics processes.
The choice of an implementation model depends on various circumstances: the adopted development strategy, economic environment conditions, the financial capabilities of the logistics center initiators and investors, and—no less importantly—their knowledge regarding the various possibilities for implementing such investments and their effectiveness.
Implementation of the evolutionary model using the example of Italy
Logistics centers in Italy were located mainly in the northern part of the country. The highly industrialized northern regions of Italy required intensive logistics support, and furthermore, the Italian government, which initiated the construction of logistics centers, made their location dependent on the good functioning of railways, which is technically difficult and not very profitable in southern Italy. Logistics centers in Italy benefit from two types of state aid: the first direct legal support in Europe (Law No. 240 of 1990, in which the legislator defined the logistics center, its functions and tasks, and specified the conditions for access to financial aid) and subsidies from the state budget as part of the implemented transport policy.
The article comes from the magazine “Logistyka” 6/2006.