Outsourcing the logistics function: the supply chain role of third-party logistics service providers in UK convenience retailing

Date published

2004-04-21T12:22:18Z

Free to read from

Supervisor/s

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Cranfield University; School of Management

Department

Type

Working Paper

ISSN

Format

Citation

Abstract

Logistics, defined as the process of strategically managing the procurement, movement and storage of materials; parts; finished inventory and related information flow through the organisation and its marketing channels, is increasingly being recognised as a vital part of an organisation’s marketing strategy.

In many organisations, the logistics function is currently facing significant challenges. Pressures from increasing competition and high customer service-level expectations have created a need for more professional and better-equipped logistics services. Confronted with such competitive pressures, these organisations are faced with decisions of the make OR buy kind with regard to the logistics processes of supply and distribution. In addition, the emergence of a need to focus on core capabilities has led many organisations to contract out all, or part of, the logistics function to third-party providers.

This paper explores the challenges of outsourcing logistics in the UK convenience-retailing sector.

Description

Software Description

Software Language

Github

Keywords

Logistics outsourcing, Supply chain integration, Third-party logistics service providers, Case study

DOI

Rights

Relationships

Relationships

Supplements

Funder/s