PurposeTo present a multi‐attribute approach for the selection and ranking of the most suitable 3PL service provider.Design/methodology/approachThe approach is based on the TOPSIS technique (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) and the fuzzy set theory.FindingsA quantitative methodology based on a structured framework, for the selection of the most appropriate 3PL service provider.Research limitations/implicationsFuture research may attempt to compare the results of the methodology proposed with those of other Multi Attribute Group Decision Making methods. In particular, the selection tree could be developed in a multi‐tier hierarchy, trying to punctually address the relationships between the upper tier criteria and the lower level ones. With multi‐tier hierarchies, the performance of AHP could be compared with the one obtained with TOPSIS, not only with respect to “technical suitability” but also in terms of easiness to implement, shortcomings and general managerial viability.Practical implicationsFrom the application of the methodology to a real case, the approach proposed emerges as an appropriate tool, which makes it possible to easily and effectively rank alternatives. Conversely the most critical issue pointed out by the real case application is the preliminary “request of information” phase, which has to be given critical attention. The availability of a well structured body of knowledge about potential candidates emerged as the true discriminant for an effective analysis.Originality/valueThe originality of the paper is threefold: first, an original framework of criteria for the selection of the most suitable 3PL service provider is presented. Second, an original methodology based on a fuzzy TOPSIS approach is presented. Third, the practical implications and drawbacks are discussed by means of a real case application.

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PurposeThe primary objective of this paper is to develop a balanced scorecard (BSC) model that is designed and delimited for performance measurement in the food supply chain.Design/methodology/approachThe research methodology is a combination of literature analysis, Delphi technique and case study‐based research. Starting from the literature concerning performance measurement and metrics, the food industry and the BSC model, the relevant financial and non‐financial indicators, suitable to be used for companies belonging to the food industry, were first identified. Indicators were submitted to a panel of experts, which operated following the Delphi technique, to gather possible suggestions or amendments. In its final form, the resulting BSC model was tested on two companies operating in the food industry, for a final validation.FindingsResults of the case studies show that the companies examined have a similar view for three of the four perspectives of the BSC, which can be thus considered as validated. Conversely, some diverging results were observed concerning the learning and growth perspective.Research limitations/implicationsBy focusing on the specific context of the food supply chain, this study completes previous works, which proposed a generic BSC model for supply chain management. On the other hand, the fact that a specific industry field was examined could be seen as a limitation of the work as the results presented are not suitable to be generalized or extended to other contexts, although some extrapolations can be made.Originality/valueThe paper provides a structured performance measurement system tailored for the food supply chain. The BSC model developed could serve as a reference for the food industry, to establish applicable performance appraisal indicators, and it is believed that both researchers and practitioners would benefit from the tool developed.