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Digital platforms have not only transformed entire B2C market segments but also created new markets benefiting from indirect network effects by providing technological building blocks and infrastructure. Digital platforms and according business models can also be found in the B2B context. Especially, logistics seems to be an adequate application for digital, platform-based business models. The present article focuses on B2B logistics platforms and questions whether principles of B2C platforms can be transferred to the domain of logistics. In order to assess the transferability of B2C platform characteristics, a white spot analysis is conducted along a sample of 54 digital platforms. The goal of the white spot analysis is to provide insights into the characteristics of digital B2B platforms in logistics. Moreover, the analysis provides a basis for the discussion whether B2C platform principles can be adopted in an industrial context.

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Digital platforms are becoming increasingly important in logistics to enhance business models and ensure competitiveness. As new players enter from the B2C sector, the need to innovate is intensifying for traditional firms. To compensate for disadvantages, such as missing platform knowledge or a late entrance, open strategies, e.g., shared governance or open source, can spur platform development and establishment. The resulting open platform ecosystems are a promising approach in entering the platform business for struggling firms. As first initiatives aim to promote open logistics ecosystems, our research objective is to evaluate the current state of openness regarding logistics platforms. We use a taxonomy to identify relevant design elements from a business model's perspective. Building on the taxonomic analysis, we evaluate relevant openness dimensions to display the current state of openness in logistics platform ecosystems. We conclude by giving an outlook on future research avenues by providing potential research questions.