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Analysis of the potential contribution of value-adding services (VAS) to the competitive logistics strategy of ports

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Maritime Economics & Logistics Aims and scope

Abstract

This article examines the potential contribution of value-adding services (VAS) to port logistics strategy development in order to enhance competitiveness in the face of increasing competition between ports. On the basis of an empirical study taking the critical-realist approach of mixed methods’ research and using data from multiple case-study ports in both developed and developing countries, the relevance and deployment of VAS are assessed with a view to facilitating port strategy decisions. This study addresses the paucity of VAS investigations in the maritime logistics literature and examines the potential contribution of VAS to port competitiveness from the perspective of port users. Results demonstrate that the most readily available and accessible VAS are transport services, followed by warehousing and water supplies. The article concludes that VAS have the potential to both attract port users and retain them.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. International Shipping and Logistics Group, Plymouth Graduate School of Management, Sutton Harbour, Plymouth University, PL4 8AA, Plymouth, UK

    Chukwuneke Okorie

  2. Logistics and Transport Research Group, University of Huddersfield Business School, HD1 3DH, Huddersfield, UK

    Nicoleta Tipi & Nick Hubbard

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  1. Chukwuneke Okorie
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  2. Nicoleta Tipi
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  3. Nick Hubbard
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Okorie, C., Tipi, N. & Hubbard, N. Analysis of the potential contribution of value-adding services (VAS) to the competitive logistics strategy of ports. Marit Econ Logist 18, 158–173 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1057/mel.2014.39

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