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1 – 10 of over 18000
Article
Publication date: 8 August 2016

Ching-Chiao Yang

The purpose of this paper is to empirically assess the impacts of logistics learning capability on logistics service capability and organizational performance in the context of…

1636

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically assess the impacts of logistics learning capability on logistics service capability and organizational performance in the context of international distribution center operators (IDCOs) in Taiwan.

Design/methodology/approach

Data for this study were collected by questionnaire survey. A two-steps structural equation modeling (SEM) approach was performed in this study to test the research hypotheses. The first step is performing confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to assess the validity of the measurement model. The second step proceeds to estimate the structural model between latent variables.

Findings

A five-dimension scale including open-mindedness (O), commitment to learning (C), system perspective (E), partner learning (A), and shared vision (N) was proposed in this study and was supported by CFA analysis to measure IDCOs’ logistics learning capability in this study. Results of SEM indicated that logistics learning capability is positively related to logistics service capability, whereas logistics service capability is also positively related to organizational performance. Although logistics learning capability has no direct relationship to organizational performance, we found it indirectly affects organizational performance via logistics service capability.

Research limitations/implications

This study primarily focusses on the effect of logistics learning on organizational performance. Future research could incorporate environmental uncertainty as a moderator to assess its impact on the relationship between logistics learning capability and organizational performance.

Practical implications

IDCOs can enhance customer service and financial performance by developing logistics learning capability and specifically focussing efforts on supply chain partner learning.

Originality/value

This study presents the first to examine the effects of logistics learning capability on logistics service capability and organizational performance in the context of IDCOs. Particularly, this study proposes a five-dimension logistics learning capability scale from a supply chain perspective.

Details

The International Journal of Logistics Management, vol. 27 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0957-4093

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 16 August 2010

Atefeh Yazdanparast, Ila Manuj and Stephen M. Swartz

The purpose of this study is to explore logistics service value through the theoretical lens of service‐dominant (S‐D) logic with a focus on the creation of logistics value…

5367

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore logistics service value through the theoretical lens of service‐dominant (S‐D) logic with a focus on the creation of logistics value jointly by the provider and the customer.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross‐disciplinary literature review including supply chain management, logistics, marketing, and strategy is conducted to integrate existing knowledge on value of service and antecedents and consequences of value creation in a process framework for co‐creation of value in a logistics context. This framework is grounded in the S‐D logic perspective and supported by transaction cost analysis (TCA), resource‐based view (RBV) and knowledge‐based view (KBV) of the firm.

Findings

The process of co‐creation of value in a logistics context has three phases: learning, innovation and execution, and outcomes. These phases and their key elements are integrated into a comprehensive framework of co‐creation of logistics service value. A total of 12 propositions are offered to describe the process for achieving competitive advantage through co‐creation of logistics service value.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed framework adds to the current knowledge on logistics service value by exploring the concept from the S‐D logic perspective and suggests guidelines for managers on developing a process for co‐creation of logistics service value that leads to competitive advantage and enhanced customer satisfaction. Follow‐on qualitative research such as grounded theory is needed to emerge a theory grounded in empirical data that explicates how the co‐creation of value can occur.

Originality/value

This study is novel in that it applies the S‐D logic perspective in a logistics context. This research leverages existing knowledge through a deeper understanding of the concept of logistics service value and use of well‐accepted theoretical perspectives such as TCA, RBV, and KBV.

Details

The International Journal of Logistics Management, vol. 21 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0957-4093

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 22 March 2022

Ebba Eriksson, Andreas Norrman and Joakim Kembro

Omnichannel (OC) logistics is undergoing a significant transformation in grocery retail. To shed light on this important but underresearched phenomenon, this study aims to…

3156

Abstract

Purpose

Omnichannel (OC) logistics is undergoing a significant transformation in grocery retail. To shed light on this important but underresearched phenomenon, this study aims to investigate how grocery retailers transform and why some are more successful in transforming OC logistics.

Design/methodology/approach

Applying dynamic capabilities as a theoretical lens, a multiple case study was conducted with three grocery retailers at different stages of their transformation.

Findings

Six microfoundations of dynamic capabilities were identified as critical for enabling OC transformation. The study highlights important differences in dynamic capabilities, which can be attributed to investment decision-making, governance and creating co-specialization. Finally, the authors propose seven propositions for contextualization of dynamic capabilities for OC transformation in grocery retail.

Originality/value

This study is original by contextualizing microfoundations in grocery OC retailing. The study contributes to theory and practice by showing the value of dynamic capabilities, stressing the important interrelation among a retailer's governance structure, leadership and capability to make investment decisions, increase logistics coordination and co-specialize.

Details

International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, vol. 50 no. 8/9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-0552

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 5 January 2022

Irina Dovbischuk

The purpose of this paper is to use a theoretical framework to investigate the relationships between different innovation-oriented dynamic capabilities, dynamic resilience and…

7346

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to use a theoretical framework to investigate the relationships between different innovation-oriented dynamic capabilities, dynamic resilience and firm performance among logistics service providers (LSPs) and in-house logistics departments of industrial companies during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptual theoretical framework relies on the dynamic capabilities framework (DCF) and the relational view (RV), which are rooted in the resource-based view (RBV). It is hypothesized that the dynamic capability to innovate reinforces the dynamic capability to adapt and to recover in highly dynamic and vulnerable environments during the pandemic. This allows LSPs to successfully create new services and respond to the changing market circumstances in terms of logistics service quality (LSQ) and firm performance. Data were collected from 83 LSPs and 30 in-house logistics departments via an online survey. The study determined the general strength and direction of the relationships between latent variables. A correlation analysis was utilized to establish statistical significance of the results.

Findings

In this study, a range of innovation-oriented capabilities for achieving more dynamic resilience were bundled in a conceptual framework and were found to be statistically significant for LSQ and firm performance. They are the capability to distribute new knowledge, to train employees effectively, to develop cross-functional collaboration within the firm, to develop inter-firm relationships with business partners on a long-term basis as well as to learn from rivals, and to pursue a win-win relationship with them.

Research limitations/implications

The results of the study do not imply that the identified capabilities are the only ones relevant to increasing dynamic resilience during the pandemic. In October 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic was at different stages in different countries, so that the level to which firms were affected varied, and although the data were collected during one month only, due to the high dynamics of the pandemic, data were collected during different stages of disruptions, even among respondents in the same country. This study was set in the context of COVID-19, and it could not be proved whether the conceptual framework is generalizable to other crises or particular industries, but it would be worthwhile to examine this in the future. Finally, it was not tested whether LSQ mediates the relationship between innovative capabilities and firm performance during the pandemic.

Practical implications

The results help managers with regard to their strategic and operational decisions in relation with COVID-19. These findings are useful for executives and logistics managers to improve these capabilities to gain a competitive advantage during pandemic and to find their strengths and weaknesses to develop critical capabilities for situations with a high turbulence and dynamic in their environment, and therefore provide a path for improvement.

Originality/value

This paper operationalizes a multi-theoretical conceptual framework in the context of logistics management (LM) and supply chain management (SCM). This conceptual framework was empirically tested.

Details

The International Journal of Logistics Management, vol. 33 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0957-4093

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 16 August 2010

C. Clifford Defee and Brian S. Fugate

A review of the literature reveals that previous research on capabilities has been limited to static capabilities and have largely been firm‐centric, which neglect today's…

4599

Abstract

Purpose

A review of the literature reveals that previous research on capabilities has been limited to static capabilities and have largely been firm‐centric, which neglect today's evolving supply chain environment. To address this shortcoming, this paper aims to explore dynamic supply chain capabilities (DSCCS) as a path to achieving sustainable competitive advantage.

Design/methodology/approach

Logistics and supply chain literature is reviewed to provide a foundation for introducing a model of DSCCS driving competitive advantage. Propositions for future research are presented based upon the theoretical model.

Findings

The need to continuously renew boundary spanning supply chain capabilities may be facilitated by the presence of a supply chain orientation and a learning orientation found across the multiple partners.

Research limitations/implications

Supply chain organizations exist in a continually evolving environment with the best‐performing firms often being characterized as agile and continually improving. The dynamic capabilities perspective provides a theoretical foundation that may be used to better understand and predict the success of supply chain firms. The work presented here is conceptual and empirical examination of the propositions should occur before any broad generalization can be drawn.

Practical implications

Long‐term organizational success may be facilitated by continuous renewal and creation of new static capabilities through the use of DSCCS.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates that dynamic capabilities may be extended beyond the traditional single‐firm view to exist across the relationships developed by multiple organizations in a supply chain.

Details

The International Journal of Logistics Management, vol. 21 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0957-4093

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 10 May 2019

Ivy S.N. Chen, Patrick K.O. Fung and Simon S.M. Yuen

Dynamic capabilities (DC) have been linked to firm competitive advantage, but the ways in which firms can create and build these DC are still not clear. The purpose of this paper…

1198

Abstract

Purpose

Dynamic capabilities (DC) have been linked to firm competitive advantage, but the ways in which firms can create and build these DC are still not clear. The purpose of this paper is to propose a model with organizational learning (OL) and supply chain orientation (SCO) as antecedents of dynamic logistics capabilities and firm performance as the outcome. The study tests this model on a sample of logistics service firms.

Design/methodology/approach

Partial least squares structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data collected from 103 logistics firms drawn from the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transportation of Hong Kong.

Findings

Results show that OL directly enhances DC and indirectly through SCO. The relationship between OL and SCO is stronger than the relationship between OL and DC. DC are positively related to logistics firm performance.

Research limitations/implications

The study relied on perceptual and self-reported data from senior management. Relationships among variables may also be inflated by common method variance but efforts were taken to reduce this threat.

Practical implications

Logistics firms should promote a learning culture in the organization. Organization learning enhances a firm’s willingness to change and innovate. It also helps employees to gain a better understanding of clients’ supply chains and possibilities. SCO helps the firm to direct its reconfiguration and renewal efforts where the returns are the highest.

Originality/value

There is scant empirical research on the antecedents of DC outside of manufacturing and knowledge-intensive services. The study focused on the logistics services industry. SCO, a necessary strategic orientation for firms in the supply chain, has not been empirically investigated in the previous research. This study addressed these gaps in the literature and contributes to the understanding of the factors giving rise to DC.

Details

Asia Pacific Journal of Marketing and Logistics, vol. 31 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-5855

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 June 2018

Ismail Abushaikha

The purpose of this paper is to explore why and how firms with logistics-intensive operations such as fast-moving consumer good (FMCG) distributors benefit from residing in…

1672

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore why and how firms with logistics-intensive operations such as fast-moving consumer good (FMCG) distributors benefit from residing in logistics clusters. In particular, this study seeks to fill a gap in the understanding of how logistics clustering may influence FMCG firms’ distribution capabilities.

Design/methodology/approach

Three case studies of FMCG distributors geographically agglomerated within Q Logistics Cluster in Jordan serve to elaborate the existing theory of clustering. Data were collected from 24 interviews as well as observational evidence of the FMCG distributors’ outbound logistics operations. The unit of analysis was the interaction between FMCG distributors and other agents in the logistics cluster.

Findings

FMCG distributors tend to gravitate to clusters where logistics service providers and other FMCG firms co-locate. FMCG distributors interact intensively and benefit greatly from building ties with non-competitor distributors in a cluster. Informal personal relations, collaborative activities and knowledge sharing, learning opportunities and resource availability were found to act as mechanisms for generating distribution capabilities within a logistics cluster.

Practical implications

This study provides practical implications for FMCG logistics and distribution managers who make distribution centre (DC) location decisions. The study provides such managers and their firms with a deeper understanding of the importance of co-locating DCs in logistics clusters, and may help them in designing their supply networks.

Originality/value

This is the first scholarly work to uncover the various ways in which FMCG distributors benefit from logistics clustering and explain why they may differ in performance, building on observations of their capabilities. The study provides insight from an emerging market and encourages future researchers to conduct further studies on logistics clustering in order to bring relevant theory forward.

Details

International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, vol. 46 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-0552

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 7 December 2021

Linnea Haag, Erik Sandberg and Uni Sallnäs

This study aims to explain how learning occurs in collaborative retailer–logistics service provider (LSP) relationships. The research is guided by two research questions…

1423

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explain how learning occurs in collaborative retailer–logistics service provider (LSP) relationships. The research is guided by two research questions, addressing absorptive and desorptive capacities and the interaction between these capacities.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on a case study of a Swedish, collaborative retailer–LSP dyad. The empirical data are structured around five specific learning situations within the retailer–LSP dyad.

Findings

The findings provide an explanation for how learning occurs within a collaborative retailer–LSP relationship based on subprocesses of absorptive and desorptive capacities. The interaction between these processes is found to rely on two types of support: one-directional and bidirectional. The findings also indicate positive outcomes of learning, such as improved cost efficiencies in warehouse operations, better customer services and improved long-term strategic planning.

Practical implications

This study shows how retailers and LSPs can learn from each other and together create an improved logistics system for end customers.

Originality/value

This research takes into account absorptive and desorptive capacities in a collaborative retailer–LSP relationship. This study enhances the understanding of inter-organisational learning processes in a retail logistics context.

Details

International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, vol. 50 no. 13
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-0552

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 June 2018

Tim Gruchmann and Stefan Seuring

So far, most of the literature on logistics social responsibility (LSR) has prioritized the examination, classification of and adaption toward positive LSR practices instead of…

2345

Abstract

Purpose

So far, most of the literature on logistics social responsibility (LSR) has prioritized the examination, classification of and adaption toward positive LSR practices instead of investigating necessary logistics service providers’ capabilities to implement LSR strategies. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to contribute to theory by an assessment of LSR and its linkages to dynamic capabilities theory to gain insights into how logistics service providers can foster an enhanced application of LSR practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is conceptual and grounded on dynamic capabilities theory. Relevant literature from logistics management, supply chain management and sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) as well as dynamic capabilities was examined to build upon existing theory by conceptualizing LSR from a dynamic capabilities perspective. In addition, propositions for future research are presented based on the conceptual model.

Findings

With regards to the controversial discussion in the literature about the direct link between dynamic capabilities and competitive advantage as well as the necessary degree of heterogeneity of dynamic capabilities, the conceptualization of LSR from a dynamic capabilities perspective adds new elements to this discussion. Considering long-term or even sustainable competitive advantage, the current degree of homogeneity across logistics services might hinder a sustainable advantage in the long run and demands for more advanced logistical capabilities. In this line, it is important to understand and utilize the causal relationships between different logistical resources and capabilities to achieve a unique long-term advantage allowing logistics service providers to further enhance LSR practices.

Practical implications

Due to the current role of logistics service providers, they should not just foster their resources focusing on the relationship to the focal firm, but they should also develop and implement new logistical capabilities derived from SSCM-related dynamic capabilities to design alternative service portfolio extensions and new business models.

Originality/value

Although dynamic capabilities have been studied intensively in the last two decades, the causal relationships between different logistical resources and necessary dynamic capabilities to achieve advantages by enhancing LSR practices still lack conceptualization. To build on the understanding of LSR, the paper at hand presents a conceptual framework explaining LSR and SSCM practices through the lens of dynamic capabilities theory.

Details

The International Journal of Logistics Management, vol. 29 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0957-4093

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 September 2013

Silvia Rossi, Claudia Colicchia, Alessandra Cozzolino and Martin Christopher

Sustainability and the search for solutions that are both efficient and ecologically sound (eco-efficient) have become topics of great interest. However, companies seeking to…

4018

Abstract

Purpose

Sustainability and the search for solutions that are both efficient and ecologically sound (eco-efficient) have become topics of great interest. However, companies seeking to develop supply chain solutions that are eco-efficient are often hampered by their ability to control the wider supply chain and they may need to draw on external support from logistics service providers (LSPs). This paper aims to explore the innovative strategies undertaken by LSPs in the eco-efficiency arena and the logistics and learning capabilities needed to achieve eco-efficiency in supply chains.

Design/methodology/approach

The insights derived from a systematic literature review approach to identify the most relevant articles to be included in the analysis represented the starting point for building the authors empirical investigation, based on case studies with in-depth interviews to investigate the phenomenon under consideration and to explore trends and evolving paradigms.

Findings

The systematic literature review enriches the existing literature by drawing on three bodies of knowledge, i.e. logistics service providers, eco-efficiency and logistics innovation, and putting them into a single framework. The findings from the interviews suggest that although LSPs are well placed to implement innovative initiatives for eco-efficiency there is a range of inhibitors that prevent major change programmes.

Research limitations/implications

The research reported in this paper is exploratory and limited in its scope. It is based on in-depth interviews within six companies. However, it does provide a platform from which more detailed research may be conducted.

Practical implications

The managerial implications arising from the research offer a wide range of current practices in sustainability, from which strategic and operative directions to compete can be derived.

Originality/value

There is little existing literature that addresses the innovative strategies undertaken by LSPs in influencing and moving supply chains towards eco-efficiency and hence the present paper is meant to help fill this gap.

Details

Supply Chain Management: An International Journal, vol. 18 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1359-8546

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 18000