Fortune 500 companies spent $158.1 billion on outside logistics services in 2005, according to a new research report by Armstrong & Associates (Stoughton, Wis.). The study, titled "Trends in 3PL/Customer Relationships,” says that automotive industry customers spent an estimated $35.8 billion with 3PLs.
The research report utilizes a proprietary database of 2,864 3PL customer relationships and provides detailed information on the top outsourcers to 3PLs, service demand and market size by industry segment. The average customer is reportedly utilizing 3PLs for three distinct services: transportation management (20.5%), warehousing (19.3%), and value-added services (18.5%).
“The greatest penetration of automotive accounts is by European 3PLs: Ryder, Penske, and Menlo,” said Evan Armstrong, president of Armstrong & Associates. “Retailing relationships are led by Maersk, Meridian IQ and DHL. BAX is the leader for Fortune's technology sector."
