Analysis and classification of logistics centres in global supply networks

The purpose of this paper is to describe the role and the location decision-making of logistics centres in global supply networks in today's ever increasing investments in logistics infrastructure. The research is based on a project conducted in Finland in 2010-2011 using the literature, a statistical survey and analyses of interviews with stakeholders involved in the development of logistics centres as research methods. The main finding is that the location of a logistics centre is mainly market based, although the authorities have a certain role in this process. The influence of a new port was also found to be a significant location factor. This paper presents a new approach to the classification of logistics centres in terms of service level, extent, planning approach and location related to global logistics networks.