Examining the Roots of Logistical Failures: Four Illustrations From the World of Retailing

Abstract

The world of retailing has undergone deep changes over the last twenty years in terms of the organization of marketing channels. Two models are today characterized by a strong dynamism: the brick & click model and the pure player model. An important literature focuses on the logistical dimensions associated with these two models, indicating that the performance of the physical distribution service is the key to success. This article takes a different point of view by exploring logistical failures from four well-known illustrations in the retailing world that could help to better understand the supply chain issues for brick & click retailers and pure player retailers.