Welcome to issue 4.02 of Evolution, focusing on logistics. I am delighted to bring you, for the first time in our pages, a special section on Formula One superstar Ferrari. Did you know that SKF and Ferrari have been partners since 1947? Getting Ferrari set up and ready for each Grand Prix is a massive logistical task requiring the transfer of 30 tonnes of equipment, 100 people, trucks, charter planes, motor homes and satellite communications, not to mention the cars and drivers themselves. Everything must be in place 24 hours before the race weekend begins. Our profile features Ross Brawn, Ferrari’s technical director, a highly respected strategic thinker and one of the key figures in Ferrari’s Formula One success today.

   We look at logistics from other angles as well. At one time logistics meant warehousing and trucks, but those days are past. Today logistics is recognised as a powerful tool in modern-day business and has created an industry worth an estimated 3 trillion US dollars. Take for instance the cost of moving a parcel internationally. Today you save as much as 60 percent, compared with 20 years ago. With groundbreaking improvements, IT and infrastructure investments have indeed revolutionised not only logistics, but also the way we trade in the modern world.
   For the Financial Times, logistical problems are yesterday’s news. Supply and timing are crucial in the production and distribution of a daily newspaper. On page seven of this issue, you can read how their famous pink paper is produced and distributed to the printer.

   Over in the United States, in Las Vegas, the Bearing Belt Chain Company (BBC) found the winning formula when it signed up with PTplace.com, an e-commerce shopping mall for industrial customers. According to BBC president Steve Philpott, “rapid delivery is vital, and [with PTplace.com] we are as quick as anybody.”
   Across the Atlantic we visit UK industrial supplier BSL and take a look at its distribution system, which is characterised as “dynamic” and “responsive.” Read how SKF’s Optima (vendor managed inventory) increased BSL service levels for stock availability to 99 percent and significantly reduced supply chain costs.
   If you would like further information about the range of SKF products and customer service solutions, please contact your local SKF organisation. You will find contact details at www.skf.com. To order print copies of Evolution, log onto evolution.skf.com, and while you are there, use the search facility to peruse previously published Evolution articles of special interest to you. I look forward to seeing you next time, when our focus is service and reliability. Take care.
Rachael Smythe  
Editor-in-chief