The logistics dualization in question: Evidence from the Paris metropolitan area

• Published in: Cities Vol. 119; p. 103407
• Main Author: Heitz, Adeline
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Kidlington Elsevier Ltd 01.12.2021; Elsevier Science Ltd; Elsevier
• Subjects: Architecture, space management; Dualism; Geography; Humanities and Social Sciences; Intermediate logistics, dualization, real estate market; Logistics; Logistics facilities; Markets; Metropolitan areas; Public policy; Real estate; Site planning; Suburban development; Urban logistics; Intermediate logistics, dualization, real estate market; Urban logistics; Logistics facilities
• ISSN: 0264-2751; 1873-6084
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cities.2021.103407

We examine the logistics dualization in the Paris metropolitan area using a database revealing the stock of logistics facilities. By introducing a new typology of logistics facilities, we are able to call into question the idea of a logistics dualism. We identify a third segment of the logistics real estate market, which is neither suburban nor urban. The existence of intermediate logistics facilities demonstrates that the metropolitan logistics landscape is more complex than a simple dual structure suggests. Our analyses highlight the mechanisms of the logistics real estate market, the role of public policy, and issues related to the development of metropolitan areas. •This paper proves the existence of a third type of logistics space in the dense part of the Paris metro area: intermediate logistics.•Intermediate logistics facilities also call into questions the logistics dualism.•This third segment of the logistics real estate market reveals a complex logistics landscape that goes beyond a simple distinction between urban and suburban logistics, and highlights the permanence of productive economy activities in suburbs.•This analysis offers new perspectives on the contribution of the suburbs to the metropolization process that go beyond a classic center/periphery opposition and could stimulate public policies to propose a new discourse to enhance these spaces in the metropolis.