European logistics companies operating in European tourist destinations encounter a number of challenges during peak seasons. Key hurdles include the surge in demand for certain goods, the need for quick turnaround, and intense competition for limited transportation capacity.
Surge in Demand
European tourist destinations experience significant demand for commodities during peak seasons. In coastal areas, for example, the demand for seafood and local wines and spirits is especially high. Seafood, highly sought after by tourists eager to savor the fresh flavors of the sea, is typically sourced from nearby coastal areas and is shipped in substantial quantities to resorts and restaurants. For instance, the Galician coast in Spain is renowned for its octopus, clams, and mussel which are shipped in large volumes to establishments. Similarly, coastal regions of Croatia are celebrated for their scampi and sea bass while Brittany in France is famous for its scallops and lobsters, all of which are transported in large amounts to meet the demands of restaurants and resorts.
Additionally, local wines and spirits see an increase in popularity as visitors are keen to sample distinct regional varieties. For example, French wines such as Côtes de Provence and Bandol from Provence are highly sought after in coastal areas along the French Riviera. Likewise, Albariño, white wine from Spain’s Rías Baixas, is in demand along Spain’s Atlantic coast, particularly in Galicia. These wines are sourced directly from regional vineyards and are shipped in large volumes to local tourist locations.
Demand for Quick Turnaround
Hotels and resorts in high-traffic tourist areas rely on frequent deliveries to prevent shortages. In such establishments, for example, breakfast buffets alone require large quantities of perishable goods such as fresh fruits, dairy products, eggs, and baked goods, all of which must be replenished daily. A fully booked seaside resort with multiple restaurants and bars might exhaust its supply of seafood, premium cuts of meat, and wines and spirits within a few days. Thus, goods must be transported on a tight schedule or otherwise, hotels may be forced to limit menu options and remove signature dishes, use lower-quality or less preferred ingredients, or reduce portion sizes to extend the available stock.
Competition for Scarce Transportation Capacity
Securing transportation capacity can be a major challenge during peak travel seasons in Europe. Freight forwarders must compete for limited transport slots on ferries and freight trains when cargo volumes overwhelm existing infrastructure. Moreover, fixed schedules of railways and maritime transport can limit the adaptability needed during peak periods. These schedules are typically set well in advance and are rigid, regardless of whether there is additional demand for transport services. Additionally, during peak travel seasons, freight forwarders face stiff competition for trucking capacity as carriers prioritize long-term clients, higher-paying shipments, and contracts with guaranteed volume commitments. Moreover, carriers often prioritize shipments on routes where toll costs can be minimized, freight that requires minimal special handling, and complete loads that maximize transport capacity.