Efficiency Optimization for Cold Store Warehouses Through an Electronic Cooperation Platform

Abstract

The cold store market is characterized by strong competitive thinking which impedes efforts to foster transparency. Theoretically, higher efficiency (viz. a reduction of annual kWh consumption per stored pallet) could be gained through smarter allocation of available capacity. A future electronic logistics marketplace (ELM) for cold store capacity (CSC) can realize this task and therefore contribute to an improved cost performance. After building a theoretical model for the positive effects of an ELM, this study aims at identifying the market’s attitude towards such a virtual warehouse. Taking the results of two Dutch-German market researches as a basis, we identify current market behaviour, constraints of market participants as well as opportunities for different stakeholders of an ELM for CSC. An electronic logistics marketplace (ELM) for CSC would find positive response among a large group of CSC seekers and suppliers. The e-business concept of e-connection is most suitable for an ELM for CSC. However, distrust in new media, a strong competitive attitude and the sensation that higher transportation costs are an inevitable consequence are issues that apparently hinder stronger national and international collaboration within the cold storage warehouse sector. Cost savings are pursued as a short-term goal and are the most important argument for participants in favour of an ELM for CSC.