Digitalization and Work Organization in New Urban Food Delivery Systems

Abstract

Food distribution in general and within urban areas in particular requires a state-of-the-art logistics system. One important aspect is the level of centralization, which has shifting optima owing to emerging digitalization and peer-to-peer concepts. This study offers insights regarding the digitalization effects for innovative food logistics solutions. Findings are based on two case studies from (1) new urban distribution systems (Foodora, Lieferando, and Deliveroo) and (2) Foodsharing in Germany. Results focus on the digitalized fast and short-term coordination between suppliers, transporters, and customers, and reveal interesting influences on work organization and management of workers in food distribution.