Research on the Spatial-Time Evolution and Influence Mechanism of Logistics Network Structure in Zhengzhou Metropolitan Area

Based on the modified gravity model and social network analysis method, the evolution characteristics and driving mechanism of logistics network spatial structure in the Zhengzhou metropolitan area (ZMA) from 2008 to 2019 are analyzed at a county (district) scale. Research findings reveal that the following: (1) The distribution of logistics links in ZMA counties (districts) has significant spatial heterogeneity, with a spatial pattern of “sparse in the east and dense in the west,” and the counties (districts) logistics links are concentrated in Zhengzhou. (2) The overall level of the logistics network density in ZMA is low, but it is fluctuating and rising. The overall realization is the logistics radiation effect. The logistics network layout’s core area is primarily concentrated in Zhengzhou’s main urban area and surrounding counties (districts), and the spatial scope is expanding and merging into one piece. The contact density of counties (districts) in the core area is high, whereas that between counties (districts) in the edge area is low. (3) With obvious spatial correlation characteristics, the logistics connection intensity of counties (districts) in ZMA plays a positive role in promoting the logistics connection intensity of surrounding areas. (4) The main factors that promote the formation of the local logistics network structure are the upgrading of industrial structure (ln Ind), the level of economic development (ln GDP), and the size of the population (ln Pop). The ln Ind and ln GDP restrain the logistics network structure and internal logistics network structure in the surrounding areas, whereas the ln Pop and government intervention (ln Gov) promote the formation of the external logistics network structure in the surrounding areas.