Logistics Outsourcing

SPECIAL ISSUE: GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAIN PARTNERSHIPS - DaimlerChrysler: Extreme Logistics? Putting an "X" in Third-Party Services

July 1, 2002

SPECIAL ISSUE: GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAIN PARTNERSHIPS - Kodak Brasileira: Hiring of Third-Party Proves Key to Handling Volume Surges

July 1, 2002

Snapple Found Handling Logistics In-house Left A Sour Taste

April 1, 2002

Kurt C. Hoffman

With industry giants invading the product niche that it created, the beverage maker turned to logistics outsourcing as a means to achieve a higher level of customer service, cost control and data integrity. Its attention now is focused on innovation and flavors.

Levi Strauss Revamps Value-Channel Supply Chain to Keep Pace With Outlet Shoppers

August 1, 2001

Kurt C. Hoffman

As off-price stores moved upscale in recent years with the creation of attractive, shopper-friendly outlet malls, the demands of consumers and value retailers changed. Low prices were still expected, but shoppers also wanted a better selection of style and colors. To meet this need, Levi Strauss revamped its value-channel logistics.

Hershey Kisses Its Supply-chain Inefficiency Good-bye

April 1, 2001

Kurt C. Hoffman

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.

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.

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.

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.

Logistics Outsourcing

The latest news, analysis, services and systems regarding logistics outsourcing and its 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 using third party logistics providers (3PLs). New technologies that provide information during shipments are transforming the way companies work with these providers - and allowing them to stay ahead of the competition in their industries. As 3PL services continue to evolve, businesses are discovering new ways to increase efficiency and cut costs. Learn how companies are using logistics outsourcing solutions to power their supply chains.