Logistics Entrepreneurship in the Digital Era: Opportunities, Challenges, and Growth Models in Smart Warehousing and Last-Mile Delivery

Abstract

The study explored the evolving dynamics of logistics entrepreneurship in the digital era, emphasizing how deep technological integration has fundamentally reshaped smart warehousing and last-mile delivery systems. The primary aim was to examine how digital technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and automation, contributed to operational efficiency, innovation, and business growth among logistics enterprises. Using a mixed-method approach combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews, data were collected from a diverse sample of logistics firms and technology-driven entrepreneurs across multiple regions. The results revealed that digital transformation significantly enhanced productivity, supply chain transparency, and customer satisfaction, with predictive analytics enabling more proactive decision-making. Moreover, innovation capability and technology adoption served as key mediating factors linking robust digital infrastructure to superior entrepreneurial performance. However, significant challenges such as high implementation costs, data privacy risks, and limited technical expertise constrained widespread adoption, particularly among small and medium enterprises. The study concluded that successful logistics entrepreneurship in the digital era depended on a balanced strategy of targeted technological investment, continuous human capital development, and a strong sustainability orientation. Recommendations included promoting public-private partnerships for digital literacy, establishing robust cybersecurity frameworks, and incentivizing eco-efficient logistics practices. The findings provided critical theoretical and practical insights into how agile digital entrepreneurship models could guide the future growth and resilience of logistics industries globally.

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