European Logistics: Markets, Management and Strategy

Logistic in Europe is undergoing a period of unprecedented change. The Single European Market, German unification and reform in eastern Europe have together had a major impact on the continent, with inevitable consequences for logistics. At company level, there is also increasing petition from the newly industrialized countries of the Pacific Rim, not to mention the dismantle of trade barriers within Europe which have so far afforded considerable protection to some European industries.

The two main sections of the book consider demand and supply the market place for logistic services. In analyzing demand, the authors focus on the changing needs on manufacturers and retailers, the two principles users of logistics in advanced economies. On the supply side they examine a number of different kinds of provider of the logistics services, including carriers, freight forwarders and information technology companies. These providers are both responding to the needs on users, and initiating developments of their own. The rise of the mega-carrier is an especially important development, and one chapter is devoted to examining their prospects for success.