Innovators and Transformers: The challenges of warehousification: balancing logistics spatial needs with social and environmental sustainability

Purpose We propose a framework focusing on logistics space in peri-urban regions and the associated planning decisions. Our approach explicitly incorporates social and environmental sustainability considerations to address growing concerns of large-scale warehouse spatial developments. Design/methodology/approach We conceptualize warehousification by combining the perspectives of logistics management and spatial planning research with examples of industry practice and develop a framework to deal with the associated challenges. Findings Challenges exist for policymakers and logistics practitioners attempting to mitigate the negative externalities of the growth in the development of big box warehouses (i.e. warehousification). While some mitigation strategies have been used in practice, they are not yet widespread. Research limitations/implications Both empirical and model-based research in physical distribution and logistics management can help develop a better understanding of the complexities of these trade-offs. However, data availability remains a limitation for future research. Thus, novel data-collection methods may be a promising path forward. Practical implications Our study helps address a contentious debate between the logistics industry and locals where big box warehouses have been planned or developed, which have created considerable resistance and limited development. It also helps policymakers trapped between these two groups. Social implications Our work addresses how advances in the logistics industry can support economic development while at the same time reducing the associated negative environmental and social externalities. Originality/value Research in logistics planning and spatial planning approaches sustainability from distinct perspectives, which results in a research gap, and limits the practical impact. This work offers a foundation from which researchers can explore the interconnectedness of the problems and policymakers can consider real-world practices and their trade-offs.