New business models in the Italian logistic platforms system: The Role of Meta-Logistic Operators

The aim of the paper consists in analyzing the alternative logics of the functioning of the main Italian logistic platforms by investigating their internal processes and business models, pointing out the role played by firms which manage the logistic platforms (Meta-Logistic Operators, MLO). Logistic platforms (interporti) carry out a highly central role in the Italian economic system (Boscacci F., 2003). Recently, considerable public and private funds were invested in integrating transportation modalities effectively, and creating centres specialized in the handling of load units (both port and inland terminals). The main empirical results of our research refer to the role of MLOs. Four different business models have been identified, considering two different dimensions: the degree of control of MLOs on logistic processes, and the degree of focalization of MLOs on both inter-organizational and ntraorganizational relationships (Ebers, 1997).