Maria Malik
Maria is a dedicated PhD candidate at Atlantic Technological University, specializing in Logistics and Supply Chain Management under the OSCAR Program. With a foundation in mechanical engineering and a master's in Total Quality Management, she brings a unique blend of technical and strategic insights to her studies. Maria's approach is characterized by a commitment to learning and a genuine passion for finding practical and impactful solutions in logistics and supply chain management.
In today's rapidly evolving retail landscape, the concept of last-mile logistics has gained immense significance. The advent of omni channel retail, encompassing online and brick-and-mortar stores, has redefined consumer expectations, placing a premium on efficient, sustainable, and innovative urban logistics. As urbanization continues to surge, sustainable practices in last-mile logistics have become imperative for minimizing congestion, reducing carbon emissions, and enhancing the overall retail and shopping experience.
Previous research has highlighted the growing challenges associated with last-mile logistics in urban areas such as traffic congestion, pollution, and inefficient routing and their effect on delivery systems. Additionally, the rise of omni channel retail has further complicated logistics, as retailers must navigate multiple sales channels while striving to meet the evolving expectations of customers for fast and eco-friendly deliveries. Sustainable practices have shown promise but face adoption barriers. Balancing efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness in urban last-mile logistics remains a complex puzzle, making this research critical in addressing these contemporary challenges. This research delves in to the critical intersection of urban logistics, sustainability, and the dynamic demands of omni channel retail from a perspective of logistic companies, consumers and policy makers.