Abstract
The Regional Logistics Index (RLI) is a regional level composite indicator that refers to logistics performance in terms of costs, competitiveness, accessibility and connectivity through road, rail, sea, and air transportation. This article compares the logistics performance of 5 regions i.e., Lombardy, Italy; Bayern, Germany; Catalonia, Spain, Ile de France; and West Netherlands, and provides guidance for future applications in other regions in the future. The RLI is built upon objective data and is steered by an Advisory Board of logisticians. The indicator is based on the use of secondary public data to ensure replicability of the index over time and across European regions, and it follows the for OECD/JRC methodology for the development of indicators. The results of the application of the RLI to the five European Logistics clusters present strengths and weaknesses of the analysed regions. For Lombardy, for example, the RLI shows several challenges, such as the scarce infrastructure, but also some strengths, such as high labour productivity and low labour costs. The RLI can motivate clusters policies, and support of national, regional and local policy and regulatory instruments to address the specific needs of the clusters. The future of the RLI is complement existing indicators, such as the Logistics Performance Index (LPI), for more complete logistics performance assessments, at national and regional levels.