Greater Manchester Logistics Study

Client: New Economy

Date: 2013-2014
MDST was commissioned to establish the extent of the opportunity for Greater Manchester (GM) to attract distribution centres (or “logistics space”) and accompanying logistics activity up to 2033, which would bring additional employment and wealth to the conurbation.

The Question

Given the evolution within the distribution sector and foreseeable changes to world trading patterns, what is the extent to which GM can attract distribution centres and logistics activity up to 2033?

The Solution

MDST, in association with Regeneris Consulting and LCP Consulting, undertook a study of the medium to long-term opportunities in GM which involved:

  • Reviewing Greater Manchester’s current position including logistics demand, freight services and infrastructure capacity;
  • Quantifying the opportunity by highlighting sources of competitive advantage;
  • Testing scenarios of future positions using the Great Britain Freight Model (GBFM).

Outcome

The final report outlined potential actions regarding GM’s competitiveness in the logistics sector.