Strategic supply chain alignment: The role of third-party logistics service providers during disruption recovery

Abstract

Background: Global supply chain complexity and increased logistics outsourcing have made global supply chains more vulnerable to supply chain disruptions (SCDs). The proliferation of network partners has changed the role of outsourced logistics providers to be more strategic. However, this changing role comes with increased responsibility for the coordination and alignment of supply chain partners during supply chain disruption recovery (SCDR). Successful strategic supply chain alignment (SSCA) may improve overall supply chain performance during SCDR by aligning the recovery efforts of supply chain partners.

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the role of third-party logistics service providers (3PLs) in SSCA during SCDR in South Africa.

Method: This research employed a generic qualitative design using purposive sampling techniques. Data were collected from five logistics triads that included 3PL, supplier and customer firms using semi-structured interviews.

Results: Third-party logistics service providers play various roles in SSCA during SCDR namely transactional, relational, dependency, resilience and more advanced roles. In addition, 3PLs utilise a range of approaches to achieve SSCA during SCDR including using collaborative planning, transparent communication policies and platforms, performance measurement and supply chain visibility.

Conclusion: This study expands on current literature by identifying the value-adding roles of 3PLs in SSCA during SCDR and the use of various approaches to achieve SSCA during SCDR in the South African context. For managers, the findings provide insight into the roles of 3PLs and the approaches used to achieve SSCA during SCDR that could increase overall supply chain performance.