Third-party logistics providers (3PLs) were a $65-billion business in 2002, according to Richard Armstrong of Armstrong Associates, a consulting firm based in Stoughton, Wisc. (608-873-8929). Armstrong shared research at the International Warehouse Logistics Association convention. Armstrong also said that 3PLs grew 6.9% last year. He added that 88% of Fortune 100 companies rely on some sort of 3PL services.