Julie J. Gentry

Carrier involvement in buyer‐supplier strategic partnerships

Refers to the recent trend to utilize strategic alliances and partnerships for securing both goods and services. Additionally, the supply chain management concept is gaining more acceptance as a method of sustaining a competitive advantage in global markets. Although the literature explores strategic partnerships within both the buyer and supplier context and the shipper and logistics context, there has been little attempt to link these relationships in order to explore multi‐firm interactions. Examines existing buyer‐supplier strategic partnerships and the role of carriers used to transport the particular items sourced within these partnerships through an in‐depth case study methodology of firms engaged in identifiable three‐party relationships. There are two primary objectives of this research: to assess the carriers’ perceived importance and degree of participation within the buyer‐supplier partnerships; and to explore further the relationship between strategic partnerships and supply chain management by presenting more detailed information from firms involved in three‐way relationships. Of interest to carriers, manufacturers, purchasers and academics.

A network comparison of alliance motives and achievements

A large number of industrial manufacturers are forming alliances with partners throughout the supply chain with the focus on improving competitive position. These potential improvements may vary by the type of alliance being formed. In spite of this, little is known regarding what motivates a manufacturer to form an alliance at various channel positions (e.g. supplier versus customer alliances) and what the resultant performance outcomes are from these different types of alliances. This paper examines the importance manufacturers place on various motives based on the channel position of alliance. Further, the paper compares the objectives actually achieved across alliances with manufacturers and partners at different channel levels.

Using Logistics Alliances to Gain a Strategic Advantage in the Marketplace

Research suggests that logistics alliances are gaining in popularity as a method of competing in the marketplace. Exactly what does a frim gain in forming these relationships and how can they lead to a strategic advantage?The primary purpose of this paper is to provide a theoretical foundation based on marketing, logistics, and strategy literature to explain the increasing use of logistics alliances. A second objective is to identify specific benefits of utilizing logistics alliances and the resulting management implications. Finally, future research issues are suggested to facilitate a better understanding of how these relationships are fonned over time.

Logistics Alliances: A Source of Competitive Advantage

Research suggests that logistics alliances are gaining in popularity as a method of competing in today’s global marketplace. Exactly what does a firm gain in forming these relationships and how can a logistics service provider add value to product offerings? The purpose of this paper is to provide a theoretical foundation based on marketing, strategy, and logistics literature in order to explain the increasing use of logistics alliances. A primary objective is to identify the numerous benefits of using logistics alliances.

Transportation Infrastructure Investment in Developing Countries: Implications for International Marketers

Developing nations are becoming popular targets for many businesses, but managers should develop a clear understanding of market potential before committing resources. In this paper we assess the role of transportation infrastructure on economic development. Our findings suggest that managers can help assess risk by monitoring the governments commitment to developing various components of the nation’s infrastructure.