Stackelberg game-theoretic model for analyzing distribution of benefits in cold chain distribution

This paper considers the way how supermarket, logistics companies and supplier interact with each other to optimize their benefits during the benefits distribution in cold chain distribution process. The quality of cold chain distribution depends on distribution methods, quality level and the accurate controls during distribution process; this requires qualified specialized logistics companies to fulfill. Due to the strict requirement and high cost of cold chain distribution, its participants are willing to form a cooperative entirety to make more benefit. The benefits distribution in turn affects the overall benefit in the cold chain food logistics. Therefore, we need research benefits distribution in the cold chain food logistics under different conditions. The problem is formulated as a Stackelberg game with two sub-games. One is the alliance of logistics companies and supermarket and the other is the alliance of logistics companies and supplier. We analysis in-depth benefits distribution of different parts as well as the entire supply chain under different circumstances by discussing the distribution of benefits among supermarket, supplier and logistics companies. A numerical example is conducted to test the proposed model and algorithm, and gain managerial implications.