Impact of third‐party logistic provider On firm performance of a packaging Industry of Pakistan: mediating effect of Information and communication Technology

Abstract

This study is carried out with the purpose to analyze the impact of 3PL on competitive performance and service performance with mediating role of ICT in Packaging industry of Pakistan. The study employed a sample of 251 respondents from different packaging firms/companies based in Pakistan. The study used extant theories of Resource Based View, Knowledge Based View, and Transaction Cost Analysis to highlight the importance of resources in 3PLs. Correlation and regression analysis used in the study indicated that ICT partially mediates the impact of 3PL on competitive performance and service performance. The study also suggests that 3PLs having traditional system should adopt and implement ICT in their supply chain in order to increase efficiency, effectiveness, uniqueness of services, productivity etc. Technology such as: tracking system, RFID, ERP, GPS, and website should be acquired by 3PL firms which would enable them to operate smoothly.