Thesis (MComm (Logistics))--Stellenbosch University, 2008. / One of the results of globalisation is that supply chains are getting longer, in both
time and distance. For example, the local bookstore around the corner now
competes with the bookstore in the USA. Logistics ties together geographically
distant sources and markets. The implications of this are that there is a greater need
for efficiency in specifically transportation and distribution networks. The integration
of transport infrastructure into a logistics hub is seen as an enabler of distribution on
a global basis.
A solution to overcome the above complications is the development of logistics hubs
as a means to simplify supply chain processes. Logistics hubs are generally defined
as integrated centres for transhipment, storage, collection and distribution of goods
(Jorgenson, 2007). Universally logistics hubs have intermodal or multi-modal
solutions to abridge transportation difficulties and creating seamless movement of
goods and in doing so optimising general operations. Freight shipments now have
the ability to be consolidated at a central point and distributed from that point to its
final destination. This creates added value for freight products. Customers now
receive products at the right time, at the right place and in the right quantity, but with
the benefit of paying less as a result of economies of scale created by the value
added at the logistics hub.
Logistics hubs are very well established internationally and many examples exist
where these have been successfully built and implemented. This does not suggest
that there is one specific recipe to success. Each region has its own demands which
need to be satisfied. There are however numerous common characteristics which
were identified during the course of the study. It is important for South Africa to
integrate existing transport infrastructure to optimise logistics in the country and in
doing so, ascertaining itself as a regional logistics hub.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:netd.ac.za/oai:union.ndltd.org:sun/oai:scholar.sun.ac.za:10019.1/2656 |
| Date | 12 1900 |
| Creators | Botha, Maria |
| Contributors | Pienaar, W. J., Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences. Dept. of Logistics. |
| Publisher | Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University |
| Source Sets | South African National ETD Portal |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
| Rights | Stellenbosch University |
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