Effective logistics alliance design and management
International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management
ISSN: 0960-0035
Article publication date: 7 March 2016
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to argue that the productive analyses of logistics alliances in the literature have led to a multitude of heterogeneous contributions. These should be consolidated and systematized in order to synthesize the existing findings in a meaningful way and guide future research for effective design and management; and improve logistics alliance performance in practice.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors use a systematic literature review to screen and consolidate current knowledge on effective design and management of logistics alliances.
Findings
This paper categorizes the logistics literature on vertical and horizontal alliances into four key areas in order to systematically consolidate key performance factors, their sub-constructs and performance effects to identify implications for both research and practice.
Research limitations/implications
Within the research agenda, the authors develop concrete research opportunities in four areas: horizontal logistics alliances; vertical logistics alliances; transfer of new research streams into the context of logistics alliances; and the incorporation of impediments and negative effects.
Practical implications
By consolidating existing research results, the authors provide guidance for managers looking to establish or adapt logistics alliance structures and management systems.
Originality/value
The consolidation of key performance impact factors on logistics alliances (both vertical and horizontal) provides a platform for further research. The developed agenda offers specific research opportunities to improve the understanding of logistics alliance performance.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors want to thank the three anonymous reviewers and IJPDLM Editor Alexander Ellinger for the extraordinary guidance they provided through the review process.
Citation
Brekalo, L. and Albers, S. (2016), "Effective logistics alliance design and management", International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, Vol. 46 No. 2, pp. 212-240. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJPDLM-08-2014-0201
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2016, Emerald Group Publishing Limited