A review and critique on integrated production–distribution planning models and techniques

Optimisation modelling of integrated production–distribution (P–D) plans has raised significant interest among both researchers and practitioners over the past two decades. This paper provides the readers with a comprehensive review and critique on the current P–D planning and optimisation literature. We classify the published P–D planning models into seven categories based on their degree of complexity and hence capability in addressing real-life scenarios. Summary tables highlight the main characteristics of the selected models at each category. Next, the paper reclassifies and evaluates the proposed models based on the solution techniques used. Lastly, the unaddressed areas in the current literature are highlighted, important managerial implications are proposed and directions for future research in the area are suggested.

► The published production–distribution (P–D) planning models are classified based on their degree of complexity.
► A second classification is presented based on the solution techniques used for tackling the proposed P–D planning problems.
► Most of the published models seem to be only the oversimplification of real world scenarios.
► One perennial concern is the development of appropriate solution methods for tackling real world P–D planning problems.
► The current literature requires quantifying and formulating multiple traditional and contemporary performance measures.