Factors of (re)location of logistics areas: the case of the Central Iberum Platform in Illescas (Toledo)

Abstract

The significant rise in e-commerce, especially pronounced before, during, and after the pandemic, has led to a shift where supply chain efficiency has become a strategic component in business competitiveness. Speed, delivery methods, and the costs associated with shipping and/or returning consumer goods are key aspects where companies focus to gain a competitive edge in globalized mass consumption markets. These purely economic circumstances have territorial and spatial implications for the location of logistics platforms and areas specialized in e-commerce, often situated on traditionally established logistical nodes. This paper aims to analyze the factors that promote the location and development of logistics areas oriented towards e-commerce, using the Central Iberum Platform in Illescas (Toledo) as a case study. Methodologically, a descriptive approach is adopted through the analysis of the aforementioned case. This involves consulting and processing secondary data published by the National Institute of Statistics (NIE) and the Directorate General of Land Transport, in addition to reviewing industry reports, news articles, and legislation related to the case study. Furthermore, the overlay and combination of maps were employed to understand spatial interrelationships, location, dimensions, and the scope of the urban development of the logistics platform. The results indicate that the availability of large industrial plots, the functional specialization of logistics platforms, the synergies created among different actors within the transport system, and the reduction of operating costs are critical factors influencing the establishment of logistics companies at the Central Iberum Platform.