DEVELOPMENT OF LAST-MILE URBAN LOGISTICS IN THE CONTEXT OF E-COMMERCE GROWTH: MODELS, CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS IN LARGE METROPOLITAN AREAS

Abstract

Introduction. In the context of the rapid growth of e-commerce and urbanization in large metropolitan areas, last-mile logistics faces increasing challenges related to infrastructure congestion, rising transportation costs, and deteriorating urban environmental conditions. This study is devoted to analyzing the issues and prospects for the development of last-mile logistics in major cities. Materials and methods. The study includes an analysis of the efficiency of cen-tralized and decentralized last-mile logistics models. The article provides examples of successful decentralization cases that have reduced negative effects in the context of e-commerce growth. results. The research identifies the reasons for the decreasing efficiency of the traditional approach to last-mile logistics and presents arguments supporting the need to transition to more modern models. As e-commerce continues to grow, classical models will further lose effectiveness due to the increasing need to create additional centralized distribution centers. In the context of expand-ing urban areas, rising land costs, and densification of construction, logistics companies will have fewer opportunities to establish such centers. Discussion and conclusion. The distance of logistics centers from metropolitan areas leads to longer mileage, increased CO₂ emissions, and higher fuel costs, negatively affecting various aspects of operations, including delivery costs and social con-ditions. Furthermore, the growth of e-commerce will require faster delivery, which will be impos-sible using a purely centralized model without incorporating decentralized or hybrid elements. Special attention in the article is given to the efficiency of decentralized and hybrid solutions, including micro-hubs, cargo bikes, and other low-tonnage eco-friendly vehicles. The study also highlights the ecological and social consequences of logistics activities: increased NO₂ levels, higher CO₂ emissions, reduced biodiversity, environmental pollution, and local conflicts related to the placement of logistics facilities. The practical significance of the article lies in substantiating the necessity of using decentralized models for organizing last-mile logistics based on interna-tional experience.