A novel location-inventory-routing problem in a two-stage red meat supply chain with logistic decisions: evidence from an emerging economy

Purpose This study focuses on a specific method of meat production that involves carcass purchase and by packing facilities with novel two-stage model simultaneously considers location-routing inventory-production operating decisions. The considered problem aims to reduce variable fixed transportation costs, inventory holding cost the opening cold storage facilities. Design/methodology/approach proposed encompasses consisting single-echelon three-echelon many-to-many network deterministic demand. is mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) which was tested general algebraic modelling system (GAMS) software for real-world case in Iran. A sensitivity analysis performed examine effect retailers' capacity supply at suppliers. Findings In this research, number products transferred each level, held, quantity red produced, required vehicles were optimally specified. outcomes indicated two percent (2%) decrease per kg meat. Eventually, first second reduced suppliers leads higher total costs. Originality/value research proposes multi-period location-inventory-routing chain an emerging economy heterogeneous vehicle fleet logistics presented stages four-echelon including suppliers, facilities, retailers.