The Role of Logistics Service Providers in Supply Chain Performance Management: A comprehensive Literature Review

Author(s):  
Zaryab Sheikh ◽  
Shafaq Rana
2018 ◽  
Vol 110 (1) ◽  
pp. 25-36
Author(s):  
Joanna DYCZKOWSKA

These days, an increase is being observed in the number of 4PL operators on the market of logistics service providers. The purpose of the article is to present the role of the logistics operator in the management of the supply chain of companies on the territory of Poland as well as the kinds of services provided by these companies. The methods used herein include an analysis of literature, a method of selected case studies and indirect measurements. The analysis was based on four logistics operators with the largest incomes on the Polish market: Raben Group, Schenker Sp. z o.o., FM logistics and DPD Polska Sp. z o.o.


2015 ◽  
Vol 20 (6) ◽  
pp. 631-647 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vasco Sanchez Rodrigues ◽  
Irina Harris ◽  
Robert Mason

Purpose – The paper aims to develop a supply chain-driven model horizontal logistics collaboration (HLC). HLC initiatives can fail. To improve the chance of success, a thorough consideration of the potential issues involved, such as seeking supply chain partners’ support, ensuring access to information/data security and assessing whether an HLC model could bring improvements to a wide range of supply chain metrics rather than reductions in distribution costs only, needs to be understood before deciding to proceed with such an initiative. Design/methodology/approach – A two-stage methodology is deployed. As part of Stage 1, a series of 20 semi-structured interviews with senior managers from retailers, retailers’ suppliers and logistics service providers were undertaken. Subsequently, in Stage 2, a focus group with practitioners from retailers and logistics service providers was run to verify the findings gathered during Stage 1. Four elements of a new HLC project being considered are investigated by supply chain champions across the UK Fast-Moving Costumer Goods industry, namely, consideration factors, required synergies, enablers and anticipated output metrics. Findings – When considering whether to embark on an HLC project, the supply chain requirements need to be taken into account and potential supply chain performance benefits projected. The paper identified several consideration factors; synergies and enablers that support the development of HLC projects are identified, such as legislation, trust among partners, common suppliers and delivery bases, capable third party logistics (3PL) and an effective commercial model, including a fair sharing of benefits. Research limitations/implications – The research provides new understanding in accounting for the needs of the supply chain when considering an HLC initiative involving leading players from the retail sector. Practical implications – The importance of taking a supply chain approach when evaluating the feasibility of HLC is demonstrated. HLC arrangements among competing supply chains need to be designed and run by taking account of all supply chain partners, namely, suppliers, 3PLs and customers (in this case, retailers). Originality/value – The contribution is threefold: identification of outset consideration factors, ideal required synergies, actioning enablers and wider supply chain metrics of HLC; development of a supply chain-driven model for HLC, which includes in the decision-making whether or not to adopt a horizontal logistics collaboration model, wide supply chain metrics such as stock levels of finished products and shelf availability, inventory, working and fixed capital, and product waste in addition to distribution costs; and, the proposal of a new definition for HLC which challenges published definitions.


2003 ◽  
Vol 14 (2) ◽  
pp. 93-107 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yemisi A. Bolumole

The shift from traditional and functional third‐party logistics to comprehensive supply‐chain relationships has significant implications for the role of third‐party logistics service providers (3pls). Extending previous research in which four factors were found to influence 3pls' supply chain function, this paper contains an assessment of the varying role(s) 3pls can play in the supply chain. The factors include: the strategic orientation of the outsourcing organization; its perception of 3pls' roles within the logistics strategy; the nature of the resultant client‐3pl relationship; and, the extent to which logistics is outsourced. The supply chain impact of these factors are evaluated based on the findings from case study research. Each different 3pl role (conceptual and empirical) is examined and implications for practical implementation are provided.


2021 ◽  
Vol 15 (1) ◽  
pp. 170-181
Author(s):  
Wissawa Aunyawong ◽  
Preecha Wararatchai ◽  
Mohd R. Shaharudin ◽  
Anchalee Hirunpat ◽  
Sittiporn Rodpangwan

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the influence of organisational driving forces on transportation practices during the COVID-19 crisis and the effect on the sustainability supply chain performance of Thailand’s logistics service providers. Methods: The study used the explanatory-sequential mixed-method research design technique. The sample included 250 logistics service providers in Thailand. Purposive sampling was used to select the sample. A focus group discussion was conducted with three logistics experts and seven logistics service provider’s top executives, totalling ten key informants. The data gathered was analysed using structural equation modelling to perform a confirmatory factor analysis and path analysis. Results: The results found that organisational driving forces and transportation practices during the COVID-19 crisis have typically affected sustainability supply chain performance. In addition, the mediation effects of transportation practices during the COVID-19 crisis have unveiled partial mediation in the presence of a direct effect. The qualitative study was found to be consistent with the quantitative method findings from the logistics industry-specific contexts. Conclusion: Overall, the results provide support for the contention of the contingency theory. Thailand logistics service providers can use the results to plan the supply chain management works, outline the strategy of the organisation, and develop the business to be more competitive.


2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
David M. Herold ◽  
Katarzyna Nowicka ◽  
Aneta Pluta-Zaremba ◽  
Sebastian Kummer

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide new insights into the reactions and lessons learned with regard to the COVID-19 pandemic in terms of how logistics service providers (LSPs) managed to maintain supply chains resilience and what focus areas have been changed to keep operations functional and uphold financial stability. Design/methodology/approach Based on data-gathering techniques in interpretive research this study collected primary data via semi-structured interviews, interviewing informants from selected LSPs that operate on a global scale. Findings The results show that LSPs have built their reactions and actions to the COVID-19 outbreak around five main themes: “create revenue streams,” “enhance operational transport flexibility,” “enforce digitalization and data management,” “optimize logistics infrastructure” and “optimize personnel capacity.” These pillars build the foundation to LSP resilience that enables supply chains to stay resilient during an external shock of high impact and low probability. Originality/value The results of this study provide insights into how LSPs have managed the downsides and found innovative ways to overcome operational and financial challenges during the COVID-19 outbreak. As one of the first studies that specially focuses on the role of LSPs during the COVID-19 pandemic, this study categorizes the LSPs’ reactions and provides a “lessons learned” framework from a managerial perspective. From a theoretical perspective, this paper discusses the strategic role of LSPs in supply chain management and thereby extends current supply chain literature with a focus on LSP resilience.


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