Logistics

Hershey Kisses Its Supply-chain Inefficiency Good-bye

April 1, 2001

Rapid growth, acquisition of a company with different distribution characteristics and a troubled ERP implementation created supply-chain problems for Hershey Foods in the late 1990s. A new strategy that focused on fulfillment speed and agility helped turn things around.

Optimization Engine Powers Ford's Supply Chain

February 1, 2001

Kurt C. Hoffman

One of the world's most complex automotive supply chains has been tamed with an optimization tool that links thousands of suppliers and service providers with the component requirements of Ford plants all over the globe.

Increased European Sales for Staples? Yeah, We've Got That

February 1, 2001

The pioneer of the office-products superstore has big plans to boost sales and market share in Europe by increasing stores, catalog orders, contract stationery business, and internet retailing. But it must balance growth with the challenge of a multi-channel supply chain.

Master Lock Finds The Right Combination For Supply-Chain Improvements

December 1, 2000

Kurt C. Hoffman

Costly automation and price cuts weren't working. A new approach centered on increased outsourcing, flexible manufacturing and distribution, and establishing operations in Mexico. Now, Master Lock is saving money and getting new products to market faster.

Hitachi Data Moves to the Heartland for Faster Distribution

October 1, 2000

Kurt C. Hoffman

For 20 years, the high-end data storage system and server assembler had used DCs on each coast. But a self-imposed $1m penalty for unavailability of parts required a faster logistics network. Indianapolis was the answer.

Amazon.com Sees Supply-chain As Crucial To Its Future

September 1, 2000

Malcolm Wheatley

Key Amazon.com executives in Seattle and Europe - including founder Jeff Bezos - talk about how the company's supply-chain strategies and fledgling European operations are shaping its prospects.

Just What Is a 4PL Anyway?

August 1, 2000

Kurt C. Hoffman

Consultants and 3PLs differ on whether the trademarked term is a distinction without a difference, but they agree that there is a real need for a "supermanager" to run a company's logistics, knowledge base and IT systems.

Webvan: Rewriting The Rules On 'Last Mile' Delivery

August 1, 2000

Jean V. Murphy

Webvan Corp., with the help of its technology partners, has broken the code on guaranteed, self-scheduled home delivery. Here's how it gets the goods delivered within a promised 30-minute window and where it plans to take that achievement.

A Fertile Ground For Efficient Supply Chains

July 1, 2000

A series of successful logistics partnerships belies Latin America's reputation for poor communications, outdated infrastructure and unreliable service.

P&G: The Global Giant Starts Small, Grows Fast

July 1, 2000

Logistics

The latest news, analysis, services and systems regarding logistics and freight and their impact on global supply chains. Today’s companies are transporting and delivering perishables and manufactured goods in a more timely and efficient manner than ever before through logistics solutions. New technologies that provide information during local and global shipments are transforming the way companies do business - and allowing them to stay ahead of the competition in their industries. As transportation and distribution services continue to evolve, businesses are discovering new ways to increase efficiency and cut costs. Learn how companies are using logistics and cargo solutions to power their supply chains.