Understanding the 4PL approach within an agricultural supply chain using matrix model and cross-case analysis

ABSTRACT This article presents a study that aims to examine and describe the long-term implementation of the fourth-party logistics provider (4PL) approach for logistics management within the agricultural bulk logistics sector. Based on a review of the 4PL literature, attributes are defined and clustered according to the elements of the Work System Theory (WST). The result is a matrix model validated with 7 case studies involving 11 experts and a cross-case analysis. Key findings describing the usage, the benefit and the organisational structure of the 4PL approach are identified. These should be considered in the preparation of (multidisciplinary) conceptual and (semi-)formal description models with the introduction of a 4PL. The matrix model based on WST provides a significant value added for the development of a 4PL in the context of agricultural supply chain management. The WST was helpful for achieving a structured analysis of the complex 4PL approach.