L ogistics has evolved from a description-based discipline to one based upon theoretical grounding from other business disciplines to define, explain, and understand complex interrelationships, resulting in the identification of the discipline's primary domain and major conceptsthe "what's" of logistics. General theories, however, lack the domain specificity critical to understanding the inner workings within key relationships-the how's, why's, and when's-that drive actual outcomes. Middle-range theorizing (MRT) enables researchers to focus on these inner workings to develop a deeper understanding of the degree to and conditions under which logistics phenomena impact outcomes as well as the mechanisms through which such outcomes are manifested. This study seeks to spur logistics research at the middle-range level by presenting a context and mechanism-based approach to MRT, outlining a process with guidelines for how to theorize at the middle range, and providing a template and examples of deductive and inductive MRT.

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The rise of e‐commerce over the past 20 years has created an increased need for responsive omnichannel distribution to meet the last mile challenge. Some companies are experimenting with the use of the sharing economy business model to augment distribution strategies. The use of so‐called “Crowdsourced Logistics” (CSL) is becoming more prevalent in practice, but the role in logistics strategy of this new phenomenon has not been thoroughly investigated and understood. Using a contingency theory lens, this research contributes a nascent understanding of how CSL performs in terms of logistics effectiveness by simulating same‐day delivery services from a distribution center to 1,000 customer locations throughout New York City under dynamic market conditions and by comparing the results to those of a traditional dedicated fleet of delivery drivers. The findings are analyzed to suggest how firms may find strategic benefit using CSL. An agenda for future research is provided to explore these strategic implications and to deepen knowledge about the CSL phenomenon.

Purpose -This research aims to provide a theoretical framework for exploring how firms can respond to the growing threat of natural resource scarcity. Specifically, the role of closed-loop supply chain management is examined as a means for creating resource advantages that can lead to marketplace competitive advantages. Design/methodology/approach -The research extends previous theoretical research, integrating natural resource scarcity and closed-loop supply chain management for the first time. Resource-advantage theory is employed as the theoretical lens for the research model and propositions. Findings -The findings deepen understanding of the forces that create natural resource scarcity conditions in the supply chain, and highlight the need for higher order closed-loop capabilities that have the ability to mitigate natural resource scarcity.Research limitations/implications -The theoretical model and six research propositions suggest relationships between natural resource scarcity, closed-loop capabilities, and firm level performance that need to be tested empirically. Future research opportunities and methodologies are suggested. Practical implications -Growing natural resource scarcity is already having a major impact on many firms and industries; therefore, this research has significant managerial implications due to supply risks and potential disruptions caused by insufficient natural resources in current and future supply chains. Originality/value -This paper seeks to increase discussion about natural resource scarcity and bring it into focus as a relevant supply chain topic related to closed-loop supply chain capabilities and the internal firm level resources needed to ensure performance in a changing world.

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