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Abstract
Supply chain management is constantly evolving, as new challenges and trends appear. In some cases, a specialist in logistics is faced with challenges regarding the setting up of a reverse distribution system and implementing it at the desired performance level and with the lowest possible total cost. In other situations, a specialist in logistics must use the most suitable electronic solutions and to take benefit from online logistics. The logistics strategies should support business strategy and not omit any of the challenges and trends observed during the supply-chain management. While strategic challenges to the way in which managing a supply chain can help find more effective and efficient logistic strategies, trends in logistics may allow managers and companies to successfully propose strategic goals.
Keywords: logistics, strategy, company, trends, challenge, management
J.E.L. Classification: M10
1. Introduction
Supply chain management is constantly evolving, as new challenges and trends appear. In some cases, a specialist in logistics is faced with challenges regarding the setting up of a reverse distribution system and implementing it at the desired performance level and with the lowest possible total cost. In other situations, a specialist in logistics must use the most suitable electronic solutions and to take benefit from online logistics. The logistics strategies should support business strategy and not omit any of the challenges and trends observed during the supply-chain management.
2. Literature Review
According to its mission, the fundamental goal of logistics is to contribute to the achievement of customer service in terms of efficiency. To achieve this, the logistics department and the company management must take into account (1) the need to know the requirements of the customers in the level of service and the ability of the company to deliver (2) the need to know the level of service offered by competitors and (3) the company's ability to provide the level of service required by the customers compared to the one of the competition (Lambert, Stock and Ellram, 1998).
The literature mentions several classifications of logistic activities specific for the operation and management of the logistic system of a company. If they are classified based on the logistic system structure and the direction of the flow of goods (from supply to physical distribution), such activities should be...