International Logistics Systems: Research of Transformations under the Influence of Recession and Definition of Perspective Directions of Logistics Architecture Development

Abstract

The recession caused by the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting the activities of economic operators in the vast majority of sectors. It is obvious that the impact of the pandemic factor on the transport and logistics sector has reached a significant scale. Logistics companies involved in the movement (delivery) and storage of goods (cargo) were directly affected by SARS-CoV-2. As an integral part of production and distribution chains both domestically and in the global market, logistics companies directly promote trade and commerce and help companies deliver their products (goods) to customers (buyers, consumers). Thus, supply chain disruptions caused by the pandemic significantly affect the competitiveness of companies, communications, economic growth, job creation and preservation, business scaling. The paper examines the functioning of logistics systems and international transport supply chains in the difficult conditions of recession caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. A critical analysis of the architecture, capabilities and efficiency of global logistics and the challenges that shape modern trends and behaviour (production, sales, marketing, etc.) of economic entities. The paper examines the effects of the SARS-Cov-2 pandemic on the efficiency of these systems, namely – economic and marketing aspects, as well as changes in the organizational structure. The study identifies and analyses current transformations of trade and logistics relations and emphasizes the need to develop a new logistics architecture taking into account key factors influencing the industry through the definition of a set of economic (financial, commercial, investment) indicators that reflect the state of the industry with further development of effective strategic measures to support and develop logistics architecture based on innovation and implementation of non-conflicting business practices.