Last-Mile Supply Network Distribution in Omni-Channel Retailing: A Configuration-Based Typology

This monograph develops a configuration-based typology describing last-mile supply network (LMSN) distribution configurations in omnichannel retailing. The goal was to integrate relevant terms that have been used disjointedly, with fragmented bodies of theory describing the various forms of LMSN. A review of the academic and practice literature was conducted and complemented with secondary observations to identifying the key configuration dimensions. Established guidelines for typology and theory building (e.g., Doty and Glick, 1994) were employed in order to develop the typology. The proposed typology comprises four ideal types: Simple LMSN, Hyperlocal LMSN, One-Stop LMSN, and Protean LMSN. The four types are described along the dimensions of: (1) network structure, (2) network flow, (3) relationship governance, and (4) service architecture. Referred to here as the SHOP typology in LMSN, each archetype is associated with one or more core logistics capabilities elaborated on in a capability profile. The typology identifies useful LMSN patterns and enables scholars to develop models and theories based on the four configurations relate their findings to a specific configuration or across them, rather than expanding efforts on separate and unconnected studies. Notwithstanding, it incorporates elements of the omni-channel context that updates the previous “chain” centric typology developed by Boyer and Hult (2005), and serves as a stepping-stone toward improved insights on what drives, facilitates and inhibits “fit” potential of LMSN configuration. The research output enhances managers’ understanding of the various forms of LMSN distribution configurations and assists in the identification of possible routes to establish configuration footprints across different LMSN forms to support their omni-channel retailing strategies. Further study can identify the critical contingency factors influencing configuration choices.