Innovation of Logistics Service Providers and its impact on logistics service efficiency of supply chains

Aim: This article presents the results of an empirical study relating to the impact of implemented innovations by 3PL operators and 4PL logistics integrators on the efficiency of supply chain logistics service. Methodology: In the methodological layer, for the empirical research it was necessary to carry out a literature review, conducted using the procedure proposed by Tranfield, Denyer and Smart (2003). As shown in the review, the issue of innovation and innovativeness in supply chain logistics service provided by Logistics Service Providers has been addressed in the literature by many researchers, nevertheless often from different and even dissimilar perspectives. Hence, based on the literature review and the identified research gaps, an empirical study (quantitative survey, using Partial Least Squares (PLS) path modelling) carried out at a further stage with the main aim of identifying the impact of innovations implemented by Logistics Service Providers on the efficiency of supply chain logistics service. The survey was conducted among Logistics Service Providers (3PL, 4PL) operating in Poland. Results: The research results showed, among other things, a strong impact of innovativeness of Logistics Service Providers on the efficiency of implemented logistics service of supply chains, which corresponds to the results of previous studies by other authors, including Grawe et al. (2015), and Bellingkrodt Wallenburg (2013). Implications and recommendations: The results of the research can be used to improve the activities of companies in the logistics services industry that wish to implement innovation and offer more advanced services. Originality/value: The presented issues and conclusions from the conducted research can be treated as a voice in the discussion and an attempt to integrate previous literature studies, and therefore knowledge and research practice on the subject of innovations and innovative solutions implemented by 3PL operators and 4PL logistics integrators and their impact on the efficiency of the realised logistics service of supply chains. The article also identifies limitations and directions for further research.