Until a few years ago, companies used to outsource only parts of their
logistics operations to providers specializing in services such as distributor or
warehousing. A single company sometimes had several third-party logistics
providers (3PLs). The globalisation of trade and increasing demand for
services, however, has led to a drastic shift in logistics concepts and
management with an impact on both producers and logistics providers. As far
as manufacturers are concerned, logistics management has become a lot
more complex. By now, many of them have learned that outsourcing single
segments to different providers has not really made their logistics operations
more efficient. That is why they are looking for providers who can provide a
higher level of service and more comprehensive supply chain solutions.