Redesigning organisation, systems and networks: the transformation of the European network of CHEP

Facilities network redesign is likely to become more common, due to drivers such as reduced life-cycles (requiring more frequent restructuring of the supplier base), off-shoring, and mergers and acquisitions. The literature analysis focuses on analytical aspects, such as algorithms for network optimisation, but not in the organisational and systems transformations that such profound reorganisations imply. The research contribution of this article rest on showing, through an action research retrospective analysis of pallet and container service provider CHEP, how those inter-related transformations should occur. The transformation described, driven by increases in the network complexity required to support their operations, include the previous and post situation for the company, with emphasis on the transformation process of the facility network, systems and organisation from an island-like, country-based organisation to a Pan-European network.