The resilience of third-party logistics providers in extreme contexts: an empirical study in COVID-19

Based on the resilience theory and a purposive sample of 11 third-party logistics providers, this exploratory research enhances knowledge about the main concerns, major adjustments, key factors to cope with, and the pivotal factors to adapt and develop the resilience of these firms during the COVID-19 pandemic. Four dimensions of these firms' main concerns include: 1) supply chain disruption; 2) finance threats; 3) human concerns; 4) the unknown of the future. The main dimensions that helped these firms cope with the situation consist of financial strength, workforce, and supply chain management. Changes and adjustments include work-based activities, adjustments to compliance, and business strategies. Two dimensions should be developed to adapt and develop in the post-COVID-19 era, including supply chain collaboration and technology innovation. A proposed conceptual framework is then provided, followed by a discussion of its theoretical and practical implications.