Abstract: For the problem of logistics distribution center location，a variable neighborhood artificial bee colony (VNABC) algorithm is presented. In order to ensure the diversity of solutions and enhance the local search ability, the algorithm introduces variable neighborhood search, designs three neighborhood operators and improves the shaking strategy. In order to improve the convergence speed, the global optimum solution is used to replace the current solution in the onlooker bees phase.The simulation experiment results show that the algorithm has reached an effective balance between exploration and exploitation, and it performs well in terms of solution speed and stability.

Key words: distribution center location problem, artificial bee colony algorithm, global optimum solution, variable neighborhood search