Matching supply chain strategy with business strategy and the results of a mismatch

• Recent research suggests that supply chains should be demand driven, as this allows them to better exploit differentiation opportunities. Application of this theory is, however, not straightforward, as improper implementation can cause rapid escalation of inventory levels and unit costs. Using the case study method, this research aims to highlight these problems, and to provide deeper knowledge about how supply processes are affected by a consumer-focused business strategy. Apart from identifying the problems that may occur when attempting to be more market-driven, e.g., reduced supply chain performance due to product proliferation, this research also identifies some appropriate means to overcome them, including postponement and differentiated sourcing.

Nyckelord

demand chain management

furniture industry

strategy

globalisation

sourcing

postponement

leagile

Kvalitetsdriven logistik

Publikations- och innehållstyp

ref (ämneskategori)

art (ämneskategori)