In manual order picking systems, order pickers walk or drive through a distribution warehouse in order to collect items which are requested by (internal or external) customers. In order to perform these operations efficiently, it is usually required that customer orders are combined into (more...

Fragmentation of production into more and more complex supply chains is a prominent feature of globalisation. It implies that transaction costs as part of total costs of ownership carry a large weight in procurement decisions. An analysis of the various types of transaction costs is also...

The pressure on companies towards sustainable development is changing the way they are dealing with their supply chain network. Practices are not limited to the company level. They are involving suppliers, customers, government, society and other stakeholders that impact and are impacted by the...

This publication presents a methodology for planning sustainable supply chain initiatives, consisting of three scopes, each with its appropriate mechanism and background theory. The first one 'Acting In' structures organizational practices in a 'Framework for Managing Sustainable Supply Chain...

The EU Directive on Corporate Sustainable Due Diligence has sparked fierce debate about the regulation of supply chains. The directive's objectives are aligned with European values. However, it raises concerns that the compliance costs of social and environmental regulations may be privatised in...

Supply security is threatened by technical, business, natural and policy shocks, as well as geopolitical tensions. Is there a rationale for policy intervention? If yes, what are efficient and effective measures that achieve de-risking? This article first explains why private incentives do not...

A brief expert report by the Kiel Institute for the World Economy for the IMPULS Foundation analyzes the effects of the law on corporate due diligence in supply chains, which was passed by the German parliament in June 2021. Key findings are that suppliers from developing countries may be...

In a study commissioned by Gesamtmetall, the Kiel Institute for the World Economy examines the effects of the German Due Diligence Act, which was passed by the Bundestag in June 2021. The planned EU directive is also addressed. The law will increase costs and risks for companies trading with...