Distributing imported goods to British customers

Interest in international physical distribution in Britain has traditionally focused on the problems exporters experience in transporting their goods to overseas customers. Very little consideration has been given to the way in which foreign manufacturers distribute their products in the home market. In a country such as Britain, where import penetration has reached a high level, foreign produced goods accounts for a large proportion of total freight movement and warehouse stock. Foreign manufacturers have invested heavily in distribution facilities in the UK and many are major clients of specialist distribution companies. The quality and efficiency of foreign manufacturers' distribution operations in the UK also affect their ability to compete with indigenous producers and to meet wholesalers' and retailers' delivery requirements. This article examines the nature and extent of foreign manufacturers' involvement in physical distribution in the UK.