It didn't take long for this book to warrant an update. Five years ago, Fernie and Sparks concluded there were "exciting and interesting challenges ahead" in the world of logistics and retail management. No kidding. In this new edition, only one chapter didn't require a total revision.
To bring readers up to date, the authors highlight recent trends and developments occurring in supply chain management. For example, the importance of paying attention to consumers and the impact of internationalization are discussed throughout the book.
An interesting exploration into the fashion industry spotlights Zara's retail stores, illustrating how they take a market orientation approach to SCM. Also covered: the concept of quick-response logistics, as well as a chapter devoted to the grocery retailer Tesco discussing the company's past, present, and future distribution strategy.
Of course, business use of the Internet has come a long way in the last five years. As new technologies such as ERP and RFID help to improve the bottom line, the influence of e-tailing will grow, as more operational services are managed online.
What will we see in the next five years? — S.J. Johnston