Identifying and ranking retail warehouse performance evaluation criteria using the fuzzy best-worst method

Abstract

Efficient management of retail warehouses is associated with several challenges, and identifying key metrics for evaluating the performance of these warehouses is of particular importance. The main question of this research is which metrics are most important for evaluating the performance of retail warehouses. In this study, first, metrics related to warehouse performance were identified and extracted through a comprehensive literature review and analysis of previous research. Then, these metrics were evaluated using the fuzzy Delphi method and the opinions of experts in the field. In the next step, the confirmed metrics were ranked and prioritized using the fuzzy best-worst method to determine the relative importance of each metric. The results of the research showed that the metrics of inventory accuracy and transfer time are of great importance and have a direct impact on productivity and reducing warehousing costs. Also, worker productivity and picking time, inventory shortage cost, and transfer quality were other important factors that indicate the role of human resource efficiency in improving warehouse performance. Metrics such as transportation cost, security, and compliance with standards were less important than other metrics. These findings are consistent with many previous studies and emphasize that careful inventory management and optimization of warehouse processes are essential for increasing efficiency. These results can help managers make better decisions to improve warehouse performance and increase customer satisfaction.