Logistics embraces purchasing and supplier management, materials management and manufacturing, inventory management and warehousing, distribution and transport, and customer service. While the role covers a range of functions, each with its own challenges and skills, they are all interdependent and practitioners must work together and understand the impact on the whole supply chain to deliver results.
Logistics links all the processes involved, from obtaining the raw materials through to delivering the finished goods to the customer. The management of this supply chain is now recognised as one of the most important factors in making companies efficient and competitive in today’s global economy.