Research in Action
Zedify Glasgow are the operators of the Surflogh Edinburgh pilot and Dr Cowie was keen to see a fully functional cycle logistics last mile hub in action. Whilst there, Jonathan met with Charlie Mulholland, Managing Director of Zedify Glasgow/Edinburgh to discuss not only the practicalities of cycle urban logistics in different contexts, but also wider issues such as Zedify’s proactive employment practices, key factors in building up a client base and some of the basic economics of urban logistics.
This was also an ideal opportunity to see some cycle related equipment first-hand – and get acquainted with the Zedify IT systems app. Charlie was more than willing to demonstrate the tricycle cargo bike, including how it should NOT be ridden, specifically on two wheels!
The fact that the logistics hub was quite empty during this visit reflected the reality of providing sustainable logistics in a major city. Operations were simply ticking over. At another moment the Glasgow hub is full to the brim, as the monthly peaks are hit with major clients TNT and Door2Door.
Meanwhile, at the hub in Edinburgh current operations are already being constrained by the size of premises and Charlie is actively looking for a larger property in order to expand. Our Surflogh partners discussed future plans for the Edinburgh pilot, particularly Charlie’s innovative ideas for the first mile and the potential to open up more locally based supply chains.
All in all, this site visit was incredibly useful in gaining valuable insights into the day to day of running an urban cycle logistics hub. The Surflogh partnership will exchange further perspectives during the upcoming midterm conference – in Edinburgh.
Read more about Zedify in Glasgow: https://www.outspokendelivery.co.uk/outspoken-glasgow/
Read more about Napier TRI: https://www.napier.ac.uk/research-and-innovation/research-search/centres/transport-research-institute