How many wheels does the future have?

We're turning things around

All supermarkets are in the midst of a learning phase. No one wants to miss the boat. But what 'boat' are we actually talking about? Everyone is interpreting this in their own way. Newcomer Picnic is going fully online, foregoing a physical presence. Albert Heijn is separating its delivery service from its stores. Jumbo is opting for a hybrid approach. And others are outsourcing the entire process. But the delivery method? In most cases, it's the same. It's green.

Game over for gas guzzlers

Dutch cities are struggling with logistical problems. City centers are becoming congested, and CO2 emissions must be reduced. Just this month, the court condemned the Dutch state, ruling that the government must now truly comply with its own regulations regarding NOX and CO2 emissions. So, cities must get rid of their vans. It's over for gas guzzlers and heavy emitters. Many delivery services are cleverly responding to this by massively opting for bicycles. Supermarkets are also joining in, as this responsible delivery method resonates with consumers.

From four-wheeler to cargo bike

The bicycle courier comes in many forms. Albert Heijn uses electric cargo bikes. DHL presents the four-wheeled bicycle, and a new bicycle project for service providers is also emerging. Additionally, several cities have transfer points for drivers, where they park their cars outside the city ring and switch to cargo bikes. And that's not all. So much is happening. Where exactly is it all heading? No one knows. But one thing is certain: sustainable delivery has a future.

Green is the future

Together, we are striving for a green world. Consumers increasingly value responsible delivery of their purchases; it's no longer just about convenience. Entrepreneurs focused on innovation are gaining traction. They offer positive energy and operate from a strong 'why' – the idea that cycling makes the world a better place. Does the bicycle courier have a future? Not solely. It has its limitations. You simply can't transport a refrigerator on your back or in a cargo box.

A different perspective on delivery

The future lies in all green logistical developments combined: the cargo bike, the electric vehicle, and everything that follows. These developments require a different kind of driver and a different perspective on delivery. Because for now, 80 percent of urban nuisance still comes from companies delivering their own products. We're not talking about the major suppliers who are already thinking green; we're talking about companies outside the logistics sector. They too must embrace the future, because only together can we make delivery better.