The development of logistics vilages in Türkiye: the case of Bilecik (Bozüyük) logistics vilage

In the globalizing world, it is of great importance for enterprises to effectively manage their logistics processes and optimize their supply chains in order to succeed in a competitive environment. In this context, logistics villages stand out as an important tool that helps to reduce costs, increase efficiency and increase customer satisfaction by providing a competitive advantage to enterprises. Logistics villages serve as an integrated logistics center providing storage, transportation, distribution and other logistics services, enabling enterprises to manage logistics operations more efficiently and effectively. Turkey is an important center for the logistics sector with its geopolitical location and developing economy. As a bridge connecting Europe and Asia, Turkey plays an important role in global trade flows. Therefore, the development of Turkey's logistics sector is of great importance for the country's economic growth and increasing its competitiveness. This thesis study provides an analysis on the development of logistics villages in Turkey and the example of Bilecik Bozüyük Logistics Village. The aim of the study is to evaluate the current situation and future potential of logistics villages in Turkey, to determine the strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats of Bilecik Bozüyük Logistics Village and to examine the impact of this facility on logistics activities in the region. In the theoretical part of this thesis, first of all, the concept of logistics and the importance of logistics villages were discussed, and the general situation of the logistics sector in Turkey and the development of logistics villages were examined. Then, in the application part of the study, a SWOT analysis of the Bilecik Bozüyük Logistics Village was conducted by interviewing the officials of the enterprises operating in Bilecik. The strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats of this facility have been identified. This analysis aims to develop strategic proposals to increase the logistics capacity of the region and ensure efficiency. The qualitative method was used in this thesis study. As a data collection technique, structured survey technique was applied. The sample of the research consists of the enterprises serving the Bilecik Bozüyük Logistics Village and the officials of the enterprises operating in the industrial zone. In the study, the impact of Bilecik Bozüyük Logistics Village on the enterprises in the region and the future potential of this facility were also evaluated. This study provides important information about the development of the logistics sector in Turkey and the importance of logistics villages. The results of the study will be of a guiding nature for logistics sector stakeholders, local governments and relevant institutions. Keywords: Logistics, Logistics villages, Bilecik-Bozüyük logistics village, Environment and sustainability, SWOT analysis