This text takes an updated view of the issues involved in supply chain management in today's business environment. In the 1990s, many businesses have gone through a number of changes, in particular through focusing on core activities and divesting themselves of many of the support functions traditionally carried out 'in house'. This development has led to the necessity for a broader concept of logistics that embraces the functions of both suppliers and customers into an integrated supply chain. The consequence of this is that the fundamental disciplines of logistics management must be reviewed and modified. Within this framework, the text addresses topics such as: - Value chain analysis- Activity based costing- Strategic partnerships and alliances- International operations- Optimisation- Best practice and benchmarking The book is ideal for students and practitioners in the field of logistics and supply chain management.