a Wal-Mart cheer for Scott

Distinguishing yourself from the pack on the basis of logistics efficiency is hardly a new business model. Stories abound of companies that have built their reputations on their supply line's cost and service advantages. But for years, the undisputed leader in that regard has been Wal- Mart. The Bentonville, Ark.-based giant has risen to the top of the retail industry by offering "everyday low prices" made possible largely through enviable logistics efficiency.

It's no surprise, then, that the Council of Logistics Management has honored Wal-Mart President and CEO H. Lee Scott as the recipient of its annual Distinguished Service Award. Although Scott is no stranger to the field, having risen through the ranks of the company's logistics department, his selection marks one of the very few times the coveted CLM award has gone to someone not working directly in the logistics field. The only other non-logistics professional to win the award, which has been presented annually since 1965, was Sen. Bob Packwood, who was honored in 1984 for his work as chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science & Transportation.