This paper focuses on the problems of logistics from several viewpoints relevant in practice. Empirical observations are extracted from different branches of industry. Based on these observations we classify a set of approaches. We consider that an appropriate approach in future is the integrated paradigm having a basis on traditional industrial engineering discipline supported by information, communication and calculational technologies. This paper is associated with an ongoing Esprit II project 2277-CMSO (CIM for Multisupplier Operations).