Port-centric distribution key to tackling time, cost and carbon challenges in the retail supply chain

The findings of an independent research paper, conducted by the University of Southampton, has shown Port-Centric Distribution (PCD) does address key retail supply chain challenges of time, cost and carbon emissions. 

The research, conducted among retailers and their suppliers, was commissioned by leading retail logistics company, Import Services based in Southampton, to establish the benefits and barriers of the PCD model.  

29% of retailers and 38% of suppliers surveyed strongly agree the implementation of a PCD model cuts costs in the supply chain. A further 31% of retailers and 40% of suppliers recognise the PCD model also brings significant benefit by reducing transit time, to market.

In the context of the advantages of the Port-Centric model, 29% of retailers also identified the environment as the most important factor compared with 13% of suppliers. This shows retailers view PCD as an important part of their green initiative to reduce carbon emissions. 

Commenting on the survey, Mike Thomas, Client Services Director for Import Services said: "It is unsurprising that time and cost are identified as key challenges in the supply chain. However, it is more interesting to discover many of the retailers and their suppliers surveyed cited the Port-Centric model as a way of addressing these challenges. 

"The disparity between retailers and suppliers in terms of their attitude towards the environment is noteworthy. This may be explained by the mounting pressures retailers face from environmentally conscious consumers and from policies nudging them to sharpen green credentials by reducing carbon emissions along their supply chains."