In this chapter we discuss a tactical optimisation problem that arises in a multistage distribution system where customer orders can be delivered from any stockpoint. A simple rule to allocate orders to locations is a break quantity rule, which routes large orders to higher-stage stockpoints and...

In this study, joint inventory replenishment planning of an Alibaba distribution system is investigated, which contributes to the circular economy concept. The distribution system includes suppliers, central distribution centers, and front distribution centers. The total replenishment cost of...

This paper examines the effect of Wal-Mart's entry into Mexico on Mexican manufacturers of consumer goods. Guided by firm interviews that suggested substantial heterogeneity across firms in how they responded to Wal-Mart's entry, we develop a dynamic industry model in which firms decide whether...

The Hub and Spoke system (H&S), initially applied to the airline industry, is an innovative distribution approach which has proved to be successful especially in transportation systems dealing with several origins and destinations and with balanced good flows in both directions. This paper...

A mixed two‐level system is considered for parts distribution. Three approaches are studied for the division of the total item set S into subsets S ⊂1 and S ⊂2. The subset S ⊂1 includes items directly served by the company to the end‐users and subset S ⊂2 includes items served...

The traffic flow pattern of the material distribution activity within the Canadian Forces was evaluated. The aim was to validate the current operation of the material traffic system. Sample transportation data were collected, and the traffic flow pattern and utilisations of the Canadian...

In recent years, retailers have come to the fore in the development of distribution systems in the UK. With this move has come the greatly accelerated use of “distribution service companies” to provide tailored, dedicated, contractual solutions to the distribution eeds of retailers. This...