Digitalization for the competitiveness of the European Union logistics business

Abstract

Logistics business is currently experiencing a significant transformation propelled by rapid digitalization. In the digital age, applying information technologies (IT) in logistics is important to increase productivity, transfer information, and deliver faster orders to customers. Nowadays, the interest in the application of digital technologies possibilities is growing. This trend has prompted an extensive examination of the theoretical potential and practical challenges within the industry. This comprehensive review emphasizes practical applications, deeply exploring the application of IT to improve logistics functions. Although many researchers have studied digitalization's impact on logistics, the studies have a rare emphasize the digital and sustainable transformation of the logistics sector. Such evident from bibliometric analysis. The authors suggested three-stage methodology used for researching data of IT applications. According to methodology, statistical analysis on the application of digital technologies was performed among the EU-27 countries' logistics businesses using six indicators. The research results show which indicators are overcoming the EU average and which have to be improved. Among the countries Bulgaria, Spain, and Malta have to improve their performance, seeking to have a better competitive advantage. The authors also examined how sustainable ICT usage (hardware and software) practices are applied in the logistics sector. These empirical findings greatly enhance the theoretical framework, offering practical implications and underscoring the critical need for logistics firms to seamlessly integrate digital technologies into their operational structures. In conclusion, with the logistics landscape moving towards digital and sustainable transformation, businesses must adeptly navigate and wholeheartedly embrace these solutions to maintain competitiveness. The implementation of digital technology and the crucial interconnections facilitated by advanced technologies are expected to positively influence the environment.