Previously named the Materials Handling Award, this honor recognizes noteworthy achievement in the field of business logistics with a focus on materials management and technology. Designed to stimulate interest in management educators and practitioners in the continuing developments and applications concerning the science and practice of logistics management, this award also recognizes the contributions of those who have promoted or substantially practiced the development of logistics management through their research, writings, or application of methods.

Candidates shall have engaged in research on the practice of business logistics with a focus on materials management resulting in significant value to an organization and/or the discipline of management. Additionally, the candidate shall have greatly advanced the general understanding and acceptance of the principles and applications for the improvement of logistics management.