Title: Creating competitive advantage through outsourcing logistics: evidence from a Middle Eastern nation

Authors: M. Sadiq Sohail

Addresses: Department of Management and Marketing, College of Industrial Management, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, P.O. Box 210, 31261 Dhahran, Saudi Arabia

Abstract: While a growing number of organisations are outsourcing their logistics function, few comprehensive studies on outsourcing of logistics in the Middle Eastern region have been undertaken. An empirical research is used to determine issues relating to the extent, commitment, and organisational impact of outsourcing in Saudi Arabia. Results based on the analysis of data indicate that most of the organisations have largely seen logistics outsourcing as positive developments that give them a competitive advantage. The paper concludes with a discussion in the light of technological challenges faced by organisations outsourcing their logistics function as well as the service provider.

Keywords: logistics systems; outsourcing; Saudi Arabia; competitive advantage.

DOI: 10.1504/IJIEM.2008.018311

International Journal of Internet and Enterprise Management, 2008 Vol.5 No.3, pp.252 - 263

Published online: 15 May 2008 *

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