Samenvatting

European food supply chains have seen structural changes regarding cost, energy, labour, and sustainability regulations. This has forced food processors to reassess the drivers of logistics outsourcing and rethink their strategies. In this exploratory multiple-case study, we investigated six large food processors that have extensive production and logistics facilities across Europe and conducted semi-structured interviews with their C-suite and high-level supply chain executives. Guided by the decision-making framework for food logistics outsourcing by Hsiao, Van der Vorst, et al. (2010), we analysed the interview data for key drivers behind the logistics outsourcing decisions. While confirming the relevance of traditional drivers examined in literature (e.g. control over operations and food quality, closeness to core business), we identified emerging drivers and propose an extended decision-making framework. Future empirical investigations are needed to test the theoretical perspectives of those new drivers. Managerial insights are provided for both food processors and logistics service providers.