Work

Conceptualizing logistics 5.0: a socio-technical paradigm for human-centric, sustainable and resilient supply chains

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Purpose Logistics 5.0 represents a shift from Logistics 4.0 by moving beyond a focus on efficiency and technology to also consider socioenvironmental impacts. This article reviews the current research on Logistics 5.0, examining its key dimensions to provide a clearer conceptual understanding and propose a structured agenda for future studies. Design/methodology/approach A comprehensive systematic literature review was conducted, resulting in a final sample of 42 peer-reviewed articles retrieved from the Scopus and Web of Science databases. The selected studies were analyzed using content analysis to identify, categorize and synthesize key themes, findings and research gaps. Findings It was identified that Logistics 5.0 is characterized by three interconnected dimensions: resilience, sustainability and human-centricity. Unlike Logistics 4.0, which focuses primarily on technology, Logistics 5.0 places greater emphasis on people and broader societal goals. It emphasizes worker well-being and human-machine collaboration, the use of digital technologies to support sustainability goals and the application of real-time data and simulations to improve supply chain resilience and adaptability. Originality/value This study advances the emerging field of Logistics 5.0 by clarifying its conceptual boundaries in relation to Logistics 4.0 and proposing an integrated socio-technical framework grounded in resilience, sustainability and human-centricity. It further contributes by introducing a five-level Logistics 5.0 Maturity Model to support the operationalization and assessment of Logistics 5.0 in organizational contexts. In addition, the study identifies theoretical and managerial gaps, which inform a structured multidisciplinary research agenda. The findings provide theoretical guidance for future research, practical support for organizations seeking to implement Logistics 5.0 and policy implications related to digital infrastructure and workforce reskilling.

Source: Logistics Research

DOI: 10.1108/lore-01-2026-0005

Authors: Nayra Vasiulis Ferreira Rodrigues, Paula De Camargo Fiorini

Institution: Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp)

Language: English

Topic: Digital Transformation in Industry

Subfield: Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: diamond

Funders: Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo, Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior, Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico