Logistics is a crucial factor for the economy and society. It includes the planning, control and execution of transportation, storage and distribution of goods and services. Without logistics, the movement of goods would be impossible and many companies wouldn’t be able to operate. But logistics is also of great importance to consumers, ensuring that goods and products reach them on time and in good condition.
An industry that holds everything together
One example of the importance of logistics is food supply. The food trade depends on fast and reliable logistics to be able to offer its goods in sufficient quantity and quality. This includes transportation from production to storage and distribution to supermarkets and retailers. According to the Federal Statistical Office, 3.1 billion tons of goods were transported by trucks on German highways in 2022.
Another example is the importance of logistics for online retailing. More and more consumers order their goods online and expect fast delivery. The logistics industry has responded to this and now offers many options to make delivery as fast as possible, such as same-day delivery and parcel stations. According to a study by Statista, online retail in Germany grew by 19 percent year-on-year to EUR 86.7 billion in 2021.
The importance of logistics to society is also evident in its role in the global economy. It enables trade across national borders and thus contributes to the economic development of many countries. According to the World Economic Forum , global logistics costs in 2019 were approximately $10.6 trillion, or about 13.8 percent of global gross domestic product.
Logistics as a pillar of healthcare
Logistics, however, isn’t only essential for business and consumers, but also for disaster relief. In crisis situations such as natural disasters, wars or pandemics, large quantities of goods and supplies often have to be brought to the scene within a very short time. Fast and reliable logistics are indispensable here.
One example of the importance of logistics in disaster relief is the transportation of vaccines in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccines must be transported and stored under special conditions to ensure their effectiveness. The logistics industry has reacted quickly here and developed solutions to enable the transport of vaccines. According to Statista , approximately 229 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine were transported to Germany during the vaccination campaign.
Climate protection through logistics
Reducing environmental impact is also playing an increasingly important role in logistics. The industry is responsible for a significant proportion of the CO2 emissions generated by the transport of goods and merchandise. To counteract climate change, many companies are turning to more environmentally friendly logistics. These include, for example, the use of electric vehicles, route optimization and the avoidance of empty runs.
One example of reducing the environmental impact of logistics is Deutsche Post DHL Group’s “Logistics 4.0” project. The company is focusing on the use of electric vehicles and renewable energies to reduce CO2 emissions. By 2050, Deutsche Post DHL Group aims to make all logistics processes emission-free.
Conclusion
Overall, then, logistics is a central component of our society and economy. Without it, trade would grind to a halt, companies would no longer be able to offer products, and consumers would have difficulty accessing goods and services. The importance of logistics will continue to grow in the future, especially in connection with increasing digitalization and globalization.
Logistics Day, which takes place nationwide in Germany on April 20, is a great opportunity to recognize the importance of this industry and appreciate the work of the professionals who ensure that goods and services are transported efficiently and safely.
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