DrAndrew Collins

One of Andrew's main research interests is the impact that end consumers have on supply chain configuration, logistics service provision, and distribution network design. He has investigated the choices that consumers make as they are presented with an increasing array of last mile parcel delivery options, for example flexible pickup options and drone delivery. By using choice modelling methodologies, companies can have a better understanding of what logistics innovations will be competitive, and authorities can have a better understanding of how the transportation network will be utilised by logistics operations and associated personal travel.

Other research by Andrew in the logistics and supply chain space has investigated consumer perceptions of the quality of the physical distribution system, and the impact this may have on the choice of online retailers; decision making behaviour of company employees in logistics and supply chain roles; and decision making in the freight sector.

In the transport field, Andrew has investigated the impact of public transport crowding on travel behaviour. Andrew has published several papers on air travel behaviour and itinerary choice. More recently, he has investigated the impact of different forms of airline safety information on airline choice.

Much of Andrew's applied research is supported by methodological and behavioural research in the discrete choice modelling field. He has developed new econometric models that can accommodate mixtures of conventional utility maximising compensatory choice processes, and alternative choice heuristics such as attribute non-attendance and alternative elimination. Andrew has an interest in discrete choice experimental methods. His research on stated choice experimental design has had high impact, both through the academic literature, and his integration of the research into the widely used software program Ngene, for which he is the lead developer.