In 2002, the stagnation trend in the economy persisted. The GDP growth rate continued to oscillate around 1%. This was yet another year where decreasing domestic demand, rising inventories, and growing unemployment created an unfavorable economic climate for enterprises. The low level of inflation, while maintaining a high value of the zloty against the dollar/euro, did not compensate for the negative climate. In the TSL industry, the state of the economy was also reflected in the condition of companies, although there was a delay in relation to economic indicators. Methods for cost reduction were still being sought, which favored the development of companies with such competencies. Enterprises looked for new opportunities in implementing process management and knowledge management. Some companies sought factors of sustainable development – such as care for the environment, employees, and social responsibility. As a result, there was a process of further stratification between companies with a shaped, distinct culture and values focused primarily on ethical and partnership-based business activities, aggressive companies with a competitive structure, and companies focused solely on survival.
Analyzing the situation in the TSL industry, a decline in sales dynamics can be observed. In my opinion, this is due to two significant factors. The first is related to the initial market division. Such a division has been made. This means that the market dynamics in traditional and simple services offered by companies will be significantly lower and will be more closely linked to the rate of economic growth. The economy is experiencing a period of stabilization, but also reorganization. It is becoming increasingly difficult to enter the TSL market, which is caused by an increase in entry barriers. The best companies offer their customers more and more added value at a relatively low price. Companies with a logistics profile are developing particularly dynamically. At the same time, exit barriers from the market are varied, depending on the scope of services.
The article comes from the magazine “Logistyka” 2/2003.