In recent years logistics and supply chain management have been the focus of executive meetings, business columns and research institutes as never before. The importance of integrated, globally optimized supply chains is well understood and executives have discovered the impact on business performance that can be achieved by effectively managing their supply chains. At the same time, information and communications technologies, in particular the Internet, provide access to comprehensive data from all parts of the supply chain. Finally, the increase in the level of outsourcing and globalization suggests both opportunities and risks.