Examining social media branding profiles of logistics service providers

2020 ◽  
Vol 35 (12) ◽  
pp. 2023-2038
Author(s):  
Cemre Serbetcioglu ◽  
Aysu Göçer
Keyword(s):  
Social Media ◽  
Service Sector ◽  
Service Providers ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Logistics Service ◽  
Logistics Service Providers ◽  
The Social ◽  
Branding Strategies ◽  
Media Channels ◽  
Business To Business

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the social media profiles of logistics service providers, and understand how they use social media for elevating their services and differentiating their brands across industrial partners. Design/methodology/approach A content analysis was conducted on 3,215 social media posts, which were gathered from the official Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn pages of seven logistics service providers operating in Turkey. Findings The results demonstrated that logistics service providers engage with multiple social media channels with different branding motives, and that each company has a unique social media profile. The benchmarking analysis also revealed the branding strategies commonly pursued by the companies, and also indicated the alternative themes that differentiate their brands across their competitors. Research limitations/implications The findings contribute to the literature on the utilization of social media by business-to-business companies, particularly for logistics service providers, and recommend a frame of benchmarks for practitioners in the development of more effective social media branding strategies in services context. Originality/value Studies explaining the social media engagement of business-to-business companies in service sector are lacking, and also, the services branding literature in the context of social media is rather scarce. This study investigates the social media profiles of logistics service providers and explores how they use social media for branding their services.

Logistics service providers’ engagement in disaster relief initiatives

2017 ◽  
Vol 9 (3/4) ◽  
pp. 269-291 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alessandra Cozzolino ◽  
Ewa Wankowicz ◽  
Enrico Massaroni
Keyword(s):  
Service Providers ◽  
Disaster Relief ◽  
Humanitarian Logistics ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Logistics Service ◽  
Disaster Relief Operations ◽  
Logistics Service Providers ◽  
Logistics Services ◽  
Relief Operations ◽  
Humanitarian Supply Chain

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the contribution of logistics service providers’ (LSPs) initiatives to disaster relief and how LSPs are engaged with humanitarian sector. In recent years, the importance of logistics services in disaster relief operations and the capacity of LSPs to improve humanitarian supply chain management have become an increasingly interesting topic for both professionals and academics. Design/methodology/approach This research follows a qualitative approach based on multiple case studies. Findings The current research, after considering the differences and similarities among collaboration, cooperation and coordination and underlining how crucial these mechanisms are in the humanitarian context, explains the contribution of LSPs to relief operations alongside humanitarians. Research limitations/implications There has been increased interest in humanitarian logistics on the part of international academic and professional communities. This study constitutes a first exploratory step in the research to build a platform for benchmarking analysis of logistics services that aims to ensure the effective implementation of social responsibility principles. Practical implications The managerial implications arising from the research offer a range of current responsible actions from which strategic and operative directions to contribute can be derived. Originality/value Humanitarian logistics represents a crucial field in logistics management. This paper addresses the innovative socially responsible initiatives undertaken by the main international LSPs in the area of humanitarian logistics.

scholarly journals Environmental alignment between logistics service providers and shippers – a supply chain perspective

2020 ◽  
Vol 31 (3) ◽  
pp. 575-605
Author(s):  
Maria Huge-Brodin ◽  
Edward Sweeney ◽  
Pietro Evangelista
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Stakeholder Theory ◽  
Success Factors ◽  
Service Providers ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Study Approach ◽  
Logistics Service ◽  
Sustainable Logistics ◽  
Logistics Service Providers

PurposeVarious suggested paths for greening logistics and supply chains often address the specific perspectives of single supply chain actors. Drawing on stakeholder theory, the purpose of this paper is to develop a deeper understanding of the alignment between logistics service providers (LSPs) and shippers in the context of adopting more environmentally sustainable logistics practices.Design/methodology/approachWith a case study approach, a dual perspective is taken in which both LSPs and shippers were researched. The cases comprise eight LSPs and six shipper companies in Sweden, Italy and Ireland. Information was first analysed in relation to levels of environmental awareness, customer requirements and provider offerings and critical success factors (CSFs) and inhibitors. In a second step, the findings were analysed using stakeholder theory.FindingsLSPs demonstrate higher ambition levels and more concrete offerings compared to shippers' requirements for green logistics services. Paradoxically, customers are an important CSF and also an inhibitor for both LSPs and shippers. Both LSPs and shippers perceive financial factors and senior management priorities as important CSFs. The application of stakeholder theory helps to illuminate the importance of the many secondary stakeholders vs that of one or a relatively small number of primary stakeholders.Originality/valueThe three-dimensional analysis of environmental alignment between LSPs and shippers reinforces existing knowledge and provides new insights. A novel use of stakeholder theory in a supply chain context underlines its usefulness in research of this kind.

Technology adoption by logistics service providers

2019 ◽  
Vol 49 (4) ◽  
pp. 416-434 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mathias Mathauer ◽  
Erik Hofmann
Keyword(s):  
Technology Adoption ◽  
Absorptive Capacity ◽  
Service Providers ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Integration Process ◽  
Technology Access ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Logistics Service ◽  
Logistics Service Providers ◽  
Successful Integration

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to reveal the effects of different technology access modes on the successful integration of technological innovations. From the perspective of logistics service providers (LSPs), theoretical and managerial implications for the process of technology adoption are discovered. Design/methodology/approach The paper provides a structured literature review of the state-of-the-art in technology adoption by LSPs. Drawing on the innovation diffusion theory (IDT) and absorptive capacity, the explorative case study research includes systematic analyses of ten technology projects conducted by seven different LSPs. Findings The findings illustrate that the technology access modes (make, buy and ally) prejudge the success of the integration process in terms of technology acceptance, as well as process quality, speed and costs of integration. This relationship is moderated by technology-, firm-, environment- and relation-related factors. Research limitations/implications The paper is limited by its qualitative research approach, only seven different LSPs were addressed. Furthermore, the scope of the investigated technologies is broad but not exhaustive. Practical implications For practitioners, research indicates that the way LSPs access technologies is highly related to a successful integration process. Therefore, the paper provides practical support for improving technology adoption. Originality/value As the link between LSPs’ technology access strategies and a successful integration process has been largely neglected thus far, this paper is the first contribution addressing this research gap. In this context, IDT and absorptive capacity are discussed for application to technology adoption in supply chain management research.

The role of customer relations for innovativeness and customer satisfaction

2015 ◽  
Vol 26 (2) ◽  
pp. 254-274 ◽  
Author(s):  
Silvia Bellingkrodt ◽  
Carl Marcus Wallenburg
Keyword(s):  
Customer Satisfaction ◽  
Empirical Data ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Customer Relations ◽  
Service Providers ◽  
Service Innovation ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Logistics Service ◽  
Logistics Service Providers ◽  
Number Of Customers

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide insights into commonalities and differences of service innovation across industries. The compared sectors are logistics service providers and IT service providers (SPs). Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected from 778 SPs via an online survey. Structural equation modelling was used to analyse the empirical data. Findings – Both types of SPs benefit from close customer relations in terms of innovativeness and customer satisfaction. However, ITSPs rely more on a large number of customers to be innovative than logistics service providers (LSPs), further, LSPs can evoke a higher level of customer satisfaction when being innovative. Research limitations/implications – Empirical data were collected in a single country (Germany) and at one point in time. A confirmation of the results in different service settings is therefore encouraged. Practical implications – The results help managers with regard to their strategic decisions. The differentiating effects influencing innovativeness and customer satisfaction have been revealed. Originality/value – The research is extended by developing a model based on the knowledge of service innovation, social exchange theory and industry characteristics and by empirically testing this model.

3PLSP scale for co‐operative dairies in Indian context

2012 ◽  
Vol 24 (3) ◽  
pp. 515-532 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tejas R. Shah ◽  
Mahendra Sharma
Keyword(s):  
Service Providers ◽  
Third Party ◽  
Third Party Logistics ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Five Dimensions ◽  
Stable Factor ◽  
Logistics Service ◽  
Indian Context ◽  
Operational Level ◽  
Logistics Service Providers

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop a scale for measuring benefits of third party logistics service providers for co‐operative dairies in an Indian context. The objective is to measure benefits of third party logistics service providers for co‐operative dairies.Design/methodology/approachA standard scale development research procedure recommended by experts was followed. First, the literature review of studies to measure benefits of third party logistics was undertaken. Later, Delphi method was used. Interviews were conducted of experts and customers for understanding and generating items for measuring benefits of third party logistics service providers for co‐operative dairies. A survey was then undertaken first for development of the scale and later for validation purpose.FindingsA reliable and valid scale is developed to measure the five dimensions of benefits of using 3PLSPs for co‐operative dairies: responsiveness, accuracy, customization of service, inventory handling and order processing and information sharing.Research limitations/implicationsThis scale is developed to outsource logistics functions at operational levels in the context of co‐operative dairies in India. So, this scale can be tested for co‐operative dairies of countries other than India. The scale can also be tested where outsourcing of logistics activities is done at operational level, other than co‐operative dairies.Practical implicationsThe proposed scale can be used as a diagnostic tool to identify important benefits to consider in outsourcing operational function of logistics management to 3PLSPs in co‐operative dairies.Originality/valueMost relevant studies about benefits of third party logistics service providers do not have stable factor structure, especially for co‐operative dairies. The new scale fills the gap of the absence of a validated scale to measure benefits of 3PLSPs for co‐operative dairies at operational level.

Outsourcing in humanitarian logistics – status quo and future directions

2020 ◽  
Vol 50 (4) ◽  
pp. 403-438 ◽  
Author(s):  
Timo Gossler ◽  
Tina Wakolbinger ◽  
Christian Burkart
Keyword(s):  
Conceptual Framework ◽  
Delphi Study ◽  
Service Providers ◽  
Humanitarian Logistics ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Research Gaps ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Five Dimensions ◽  
Logistics Service ◽  
Logistics Service Providers

PurposeOutsourcing of logistics has great importance in disaster relief. Aid agencies spend several billion US dollars every year on logistics services. However, the concept of outsourcing has not been established adequately in literature on humanitarian logistics, leading to a fragmented view of the practice. This paper provides a holistic perspective of the concept by constructing a conceptual framework to analyze both practice and research of outsourcing in humanitarian operations. Based on this analysis, we explore future trends and identify research gaps.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is based on a structured review of academic literature, a two-round Delphi study with 31 experts from aid agencies and a complementary full-day focus group with twelve experts from aid agencies and logistics service providers.FindingsThe paper systemizes the current practice of outsourcing in humanitarian logistics according to a conceptual framework of five dimensions: subject, object, partner, design and context. In addition, it reveals ten probable developments of the practice over the next years. Finally, it describes eight important research gaps and presents a research agenda for the field.Research limitations/implicationsThe literature review considered peer-reviewed academic papers. Practitioner papers could provide additional insights into the practice. Moreover, the Delphi study focused on the perspective of aid agencies. Capturing the views of logistics service providers in more detail would be a valuable addition.Originality/valueThe paper establishes the academic basis for the important practice of outsourcing in humanitarian logistics. It highlights essential research gaps and, thereby, opens up the field for future research.

Logistics outsourcing in omnichannel retail

2019 ◽  
Vol 49 (3) ◽  
pp. 267-286 ◽  
Author(s):  
Heleen Buldeo Rai ◽  
Sara Verlinde ◽  
Cathy Macharis ◽  
Penelope Schoutteet ◽  
Lieselot Vanhaverbeke
Keyword(s):  
Service Providers ◽  
Scientific Information ◽  
Service Differentiation ◽  
Holistic View ◽  
Logistics Outsourcing ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Logistics Service ◽  
Food Retailers ◽  
Logistics Service Providers ◽  
Last Mile

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to identify in what way logistics service providers are involved in the logistics operations of omnichannel retailers. Given the importance of logistics in omnichannel retail and the complexities that it brings forth, it is unclear if the current tendency towards logistics outsourcing continues, and how logistics service providers should adapt to remain relevant in the omnichannel retail environment. Design/methodology/approach The research draws on both desk and field research. The authors analysed the scientific information available on omnichannel retail logistics and conducted semi-structured expert interviews with food and non-food retailers that adopt an omnichannel model. Findings The research demonstrates distinct differences between food and non-food retailers. While food retailers are inclined to organise fulfilment and last mile activities in-house, non-food retailers partner closely with logistics service providers. Nonetheless, the store network of non-food retailers is attracting a growing part of logistics activities, which retailers are building themselves. To sustain their relevance in the omnichannel environment and strengthen their position for the future, the authors created a competency recommendation framework for logistics service providers, in which service differentiation is proposed as a viable direction for growth. Research limitations/implications The research is based on insights from retailers based in the Brussels-Capital Region (Belgium) and requires further and wider testing in other contexts and geographical areas. Practical implications The findings have strategic importance for retailers that are developing an omnichannel retail model and logistics service providers that (aim to) serve clients and operate activities within the retail sector. Originality/value The research provides a holistic view of logistics in omnichannel retail by identifying insourcing and outsourcing mechanisms and developing competency recommendations to fulfilment, internal transport and last mile transport in omnichannel retail.

Halal logistics: practices, integration and performance of logistics service providers

2019 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Noorliza Karia
Keyword(s):  
Value Creation ◽  
Service Providers ◽  
Partial Least Square ◽  
Least Square ◽  
The Novel ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Logistics Service ◽  
Logistics Service Providers ◽  
And Performance

Purpose This paper aims to examine the halal value creation in halal logistics practices and halal logistics integration in delivering halal products and/or services by investigating the effects of halal logistics practices on halal logistics performance and the role of halal logistics integration as a mediator. Design/methodology/approach Partial least square is performed on a survey data of 129 Malaysian logistics service providers. Findings The novel findings affirm that halal logistics practices comprising of physical segregation of halal products from non-halal in halal warehousing, halal transportation and halal terminal positively affect halal logistics performance. The most novel finding is that halal logistics integration positively affect halal logistics performance and mediate, significantly the relationship between halal warehousing and halal transportation and halal logistics performance. Practical implications Managers/logisticians should aware that halal value creation in halal logistics practices have a positive effect on halal logistics performance and they should appreciate halal logistics practices and halal logistics integration to realize a better halal logistics performance towards halal logistics implementation. Originality/value The results draw the novel contributions of halal logistics practices and mediating effects of halal logistics integration between halal logistics practices and halal logistics performance that have never been published.

scholarly journals Outsourcing of humanitarian logistics to commercial logistics service providers

2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
pp. 47-69 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ioanna Falagara Sigala ◽  
Tina Wakolbinger
Keyword(s):  
Selection Criteria ◽  
Service Providers ◽  
Humanitarian Logistics ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Logistics Service ◽  
Humanitarian Organizations ◽  
Logistics Service Providers ◽  
The Usa ◽  
Managerial Implications ◽  
Context Specific

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to empirically explore the potential of outsourcing of humanitarian logistics activities to commercial logistics service providers (LSPs) throughout the different disaster phases. The authors identify incentives for initiating outsourcing of humanitarian logistics activities to commercial logistics providers, humanitarian logistics activities to be outsourced and selection criteria for partners. Design/methodology/approach This study is based on empirical data collected by interviewing 12 practitioners from commercial LSPs and 12 practitioners from humanitarian organizations (HOs). A review of related literature guided this research. Findings This research shows that incentives for initiating outsourcing engagements, partner selection criteria and activities to be outsourced are changing throughout the different disaster phases. A number of research propositions are presented. Research limitations/implications This research constitutes a first step towards the goal of a comprehensive analysis of humanitarian logistics outsourcing throughout the different disaster phases. The authors collected data from practitioners and large organizations based mainly in Europe and the USA. Hence, insights from national and local organizations of other parts of the world are missing. Practical implications This research provides a deeper understanding of outsourcing of humanitarian logistics activities. As the main implication for practice, the research suggests a strategic use of outsourcing during the three disaster phases. The authors acknowledge that business objectives, risks, stakeholder agendas and requirements, as well as costs play a vital and changing role for outsourcing decision-making during the three disaster stages. The managerial implications arising from the research can provide support to commercial LSPs and HOs that initiate or develop strategic outsourcing relationships. Originality/value This study covers the gap in the humanitarian literature related to context-specific factors of outsourcing in humanitarian logistics by empirically investigating the phenomenon. This is one of the first studies that empirically investigate the potential of outsourcing of humanitarian logistics activities throughout the disaster phases.

scholarly journals Intra-organizational communication, understanding, and process diffusion in logistics service providers

2019 ◽  
Vol 49 (6) ◽  
pp. 662-678 ◽  
Author(s):  
Scott J. Grawe ◽  
Peter M. Ralston
Keyword(s):  
Structural Equation ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Service Providers ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Process Improvements ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Logistics Service ◽  
Logistics Service Providers ◽  
Supply Chain Robustness

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate, using survey data, how a firm may be able to leverage innovation or processes specifically developed for one customer across its entire customer network using on-site, or implanted, employees.Design/methodology/approachData collected from a survey of 309 implanted logistics service provider (LSP) representatives are analyzed using structural equation modeling.FindingsThe findings show that intra-organizational task interdependence and face-to-face communication can lead to a greater understanding of firm processes developed for specific customers and greater diffusion of these new processes to other customers. Rather than separating customers that require implanted employees, these implants can be a conduit of valuable information and process enhancements that can positively impact a firm’s customer network.Originality/valueThe current research shows how LSPs can effectively use their customer networks to provide process improvements for multiple customers. Specifically, transferring processes between customers can lead to efficiencies and contribute to supply chain robustness not possible without process diffusion.

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