International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management

McKinnon, Alan C.; Stirling, Iain; Kirkhope, Justin

1993 International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management

doi: 10.1108/09600039310049736

Concern about increasing fuel prices and levels of environmentalpollution is forcing firms to improve the fuel efficiency of theirtransport operations. Assesses the extent to which British road hauliershave implemented a range of fuelsaving measures and examines theirgeneral attitudes to fuel utilization. Good vehicle maintenance anddriver training are believed to offer the greatest potential, withimproved aerodynamics and vehicle replacement policy also consideredimportant. Operators are sceptical, however, about the value of speedlimiters and driver incentive schemes. Outlines the experience of adistribution contractor who has implemented a broadlybased fuelconservation programme. Overall, the research highlights the importanceof managerial initiatives, particularly in the areas of drivermonitoring and training, and the need to develop a well coordinatedpackage of fuel efficiency measures.

Wagner, William B.

1993 International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management

doi: 10.1108/09600039310049745

Analyses changes taking place within purchasing and itsenvironment. Interpreting such trends wisely will be necessary toachieve an optimal relationship between purchasing and otherorganizational units. Addresses how changes in purchasing affect profitgeneration, securing of new and better suppliers, achieving higherreal value in products bought, dealing with new andemerging forms of sales pressure including related supplier strategiesand tactics, improving price hike rationale assessment, and determiningeffective purchasing strategy relative to prevailing economicconditionsall of which are leading to a broadened role and relevance ofpurchasing today. Discusses current, significant purchasing trends, howthey will influence future decision making, and the need for purchasingto help establish and maintain strong crossfunctional ties with allrelevant parties. Directs analysis and discussion towards allindividuals and groups affecting or being affected by the purchasingfunction domestically and abroad.

Eibl, Peter G.

1993 International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management

doi: 10.1108/09600039310049754

Road transport information systems RTISs and their underlyingdigitized road networks, which were initially restricted for use innational operations only, have been enhanced and extended for use ininternational operations. Today operators can choose from a wide rangeof strategic, tactical and operational RTISs, allowing for the effectiveplanning of international distribution. Discusses some modellingconsiderations behind the design and use of digitized road networks forplanning and managing international distribution, in particularcrossborder or panEuropean operations. Examines the basic structure ofdigitized road networks and considers the benefits and problems ofextending road network databases to cover several countries.