An example of the complexity of an integrated
logistic chain that may be encountered in practice
is shown in Fig. 1. The 'CMSO Toblerone model'
was introduced in the ESPRIT II CMSO project
as a visual reference model for logistic chains in
the European automotive industry. The model is
composed of three logistic sub-chains, each consisting
of a large number of different, usually
autonomously acting, companies. The supply
chain comprises the production and supply of
materials and parts, and it serves both the manufacturing
logistic chain and the distribution logistic
chain. The manufacturing logistic chain deals
with the logistic business processes related to the
production of the consumer article (in this case
the vehicle), while the distribution logistic chain
combines all logistic operations concerned with
the after-sales market (spare parts), including
maintenance and repair of the consumer product.