A sectoral perspective on distribution structure design
Publication - November 2020
This paper studies the factors that drive distribution structure design (DSD), which includes the spatial layout of distribution channels and location choice of logistics facilities.
Methodology
We build on a generic framework from existing literature, which we validate and elaborate using interviews among industry practitioners. Empirical evidence was collected from 18 logistics experts and 33 decision-makers affiliated to shippers and logistics service providers from the fashion, consumer electronics, and online retail sectors.
Findings
It turns out that interviewees share similar rankings of main factors across industries, and even confirm factor weights from earlier research established using multi-criteria decision analysis, which would indicate that the framework is sector-neutral at the highest level. The importance attached to subfactors varies between sectors according to our expectations. We were able to identify 20 possible new influencing subfactors.
Implications for Managers and Policy-Makers
The results may support managers in their decision-making process, and regional policy-makers with regard to spatial planning and regional marketing. The framework is a basis for researchers to help improve further quantitative DSD support models.
Authors
- Sander Onstein
- Lóránt A. Tavasszy
- Jafar Rezaei
- Dick van Damme
- Adeline Heitz
Mainport Logistics research group
This publication is part of the Mainport Logistics research group. Sustainable and efficient regional logistics is crucial for the international competitiveness of the Amsterdam Metropolitan Area. The Mainport Logistics research group is committed to practice-oriented research in this area, with and for businesses, governments and (other) knowledge institutions.