Physical Distribution Development, Current Status, and Potential

Physical distribution, one of the oldest facets of commercial enterprise, has historically been one of the most neglected of business subjects. A flurry of attention has focused upon the concept of integrated physical distribution since the mid-1950s. In this article the where been, where now, and where going of physical distribution are examined. The author first reviews major developments which have served to establish the field of physical distribution. The second section provides a synthesis of developments into a summary statement of the existing state of physical distribution. The final section provides a review of research topics on the forefront of development in 1969.