From 19-21 November 2025, GLEAM NSR partners gathered in Rotterdam for a consortium meeting focused on the practical transition toward zero-emission urban logistics and stronger engagement with SMEs.
Visit Vlot Logistics
The meeting combined hands-on study visits, in-depth partner exchanges and thematic sessions highlighting how cities can better support logistics SMEs through regulation, dialogue and tailored advisory services. Participants visited HUB010 (Vlot Logistics), Rotterdam’s urban consolidation hub for zero-emission construction logistics, and Van Dorp City Solutions, where technicians operate almost entirely using e-bikes and cargo bikes within the zero-emission zone. These visits offered concrete insights into how emission-free logistics can work at scale while remaining operationally efficient.
80% of repairs can be made with this simple kit - Visit Van Dorp City Solutions (CISO)
A key focus of the meeting was the exchange of experiences from city dialogues held in Le Havre, Rotterdam, Mechelen & Leuven, and Aarhus. Partners discussed lessons learned on reaching SMEs, designing effective dialogue formats and responding to real operational needs, such as access, parking, fleet transition and workforce challenges, while recognising the importance of adapting solutions to local contexts.
Rotterdam also shared its approach to government support for logistics SMEs, including the SME Test methodology, personalised zero-emission advice and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) assessments that help companies make informed transition decisions. Further sessions explored how SMEs can be meaningfully involved in major infrastructure works, using the redevelopment of Hofplein as a case study, as well as how municipal fleet decarbonisation and procurement can accelerate market transformation.
Alongside the consortium meeting, partners could join an optional technical workshop on cycle logistics planning, led by the City of Rotterdam and Significance, offering a hands-on exploration of how cycle logistics can be integrated into urban freight strategies and day-to-day operational planning.
The meeting concluded with reflections on knowledge transfer beyond the project, emphasising that the transition to sustainable urban logistics is not only technical, but also cultural, requiring long-term vision, trust-building with SMEs and continuous exchange between cities.
The Rotterdam consortium meeting marked an important step in strengthening cross-city learning within GLEAM NSR and translating ambitious zero-emission goals into practical, scalable action. Lastly, we would like to thank our the City of Rotterdam for putting together such an insightful and engaging program.
