E-Fulfilment: Implications for Global Logistics and Manufacturing

In global manufacturing a paradigm shift from “make-to-stock” to “make-to-order” can be observed. This shift calls for new logistics strategies. Logistics should not focus exclusively on the efficiency of the distribution system. Beyond, it is important to integrate the order process into the logistics strategy. Our vision in writing this paper is an integrated fulfilment process from customer to customer. Following a description of problems in traditional fulfilment systems, this paper presents innovative technologies and new logistics concepts as basic elements of the fulfilment vision. A holistic logistics navigator is introduced in order to provide support in the ongoing transformation process. The implications of e-fulfilment for global manufacturing are considered as well.