An empirical examination of the contribution of capabilities to the competitiveness of logistics service providers: A perspective from China

Purpose - This paper aims to report on an investigation of logistics service provider (LSP) capabilities and how these capabilities contribute to LSP competitiveness in the context of China. Design/methodology/approach - This paper draws on work from economics and strategy on firm-level competitiven...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:International journal of physical distribution & logistics management 2010-01, Vol.40 (10), p.847-866
Main Authors: Liu, Xiaohong, Grant, David B, McKinnon, Alan C, Feng, Yuanhua
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
China
Competition
Competitive advantage
Construction
Construction costs
Core competencies
Distribution planning
Empirical analysis
Factor analysis
Logistics
Market positioning
Regression
Strategic management
Strategy
Studies
Supply chain management
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Summary:Purpose - This paper aims to report on an investigation of logistics service provider (LSP) capabilities and how these capabilities contribute to LSP competitiveness in the context of China. Design/methodology/approach - This paper draws on work from economics and strategy on firm-level competitiveness, particularly the resource-based view, to develop and empirically examined 13 firm-specific capability constructs based on a survey of Chinese LSPs. Findings - Exploratory factor analysis and factor analysis regression indicated all 13 constructs are critical to a Chinese LSP's competitiveness and are interlinked in contributing to it. The findings also revealed the most critical capability is service quality; this capability was further assessed and two sub-constructs of operations and relationship management emerged. Practical implications - The results of the empirical study provide a useful way for LSP managers to identify and appraise their firm's capabilities and competitiveness. Originality/value - This study contributes by addressing a gap of empirical research concerning LSP competitiveness and capabilities. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]
ISSN:0960-0035
1758-664X
DOI:10.1108/09600031011093232