Going the extra mile: vital third party logistics service providers' pre-selection activities by pharmaceutical organizations

In this study, the investigation of the vital activities by pharmaceutical organizations in Nigeria before their final selection of third party logistics service providers (3PLSPs) was conducted. A sequential exploratory mixed method approach, with Delphi study preceding a quantitative survey was adopted. Data analysis of the Delphi panellists' responses shows some of these activities in top ranking include: analysing present costs of function(s), adequate due diligence and visiting 3PLSPs' locations. Exploratory factor analysis of the data extracted two main factors out of the activities named "Internal preparedness" and "Proactive and authentication initiatives". Valuable contributions from the Delphi panel of experts and this entire study to knowledge, research methodology and policies have been made from the results of the study.