LOGISTICS STRATEGY OF THE ENTERPRISE: THE ESSENCE OF THE CONCEPT

Abstract

The article considers the current achievements of leading scientists and scholars in the field of strategic logistics management on the understanding of the essence of the term "logistics strategy" of the enterprise. A thorough analysis of the relevant scientific and practical literature revealed that this area is at an early stage of its development now. This fact causes the lack of identity and common views of experts in the interpretation of the meaning of this term, the authors provide different definitions. Existing developments in the theory and practice of logistics management, including the essence of the concept of logistics strategy need research and refinement. The main purpose of the article is to formulate the definition of logistics strategy by identifying and streamlining its essential features (the ones each of which is necessary, but all together are sufficient to distinguish this term from all the others). The existing interpretations of the essence of logistics strategy used in modern literature are studied. Their exhaustive analysis allowed us to conclude that, along with the available theoretical developments, they have certain limitations and shortcomings. Based on the application of basic logical techniques (analysis, comparison and synthesis), the essential features of this term are identified with regard to the content of actions and essential certainty: a set of actions, decisions and methods of effective enterprise management; long-term strategic plan (profile) of the enterprise in the logistics sphere; management of material, information and financial flows; coordination, allocation and efficient use of resources. The basis for the formation of the concept of logistics strategy is established: firstly, the inclusion of the above four essential features of logistics strategies; secondly, clarification of the feature regarding the compliance of logistics strategies not only with the type of corporate strategy, but also with business strategies, as it is aimed at achieving its goals; thirdly, the inclusion of a sign of compliance with the long-term goals of the enterprise; fourthly, basing on (among others) ​​the definition of strategy and logistics. Based on the above provisions, the essence of the concept of logistics strategy of the enterprise is formulated, which, in contrast to the existing ones, most fully takes into account the essential features of this term in its essential definition and content of actions. The main differences of the proposed definition are the joint inclusion of the concept of the relevant components in the content.