Just‐in‐time (JIT) systems have evolved from a few selected implementations in the automobile industry into a widespread business practice. Early understanding of JIT models indicated that JIT can reduce inventory in the production system through the elimination of wasteful activities. This...

Explores how firms can use time‐based strategies within their distribution operations. Exploratory results are presented detailing strategic distribution responses employed to meet competitive challenges and gain competitive advantages. These firms have proactively worked to make their...

Trade promotions have become an important instrument in accomplishing supply chain objectives. The extensive use of trade promotions does not appear likely to fade in the immediate future. Results of a recent survey of independent grocery retailers are presented. The research examines the...

Reverse logistics is one of the toughest supply chain challenges. One approach to achieving more effective reverse logistics is to adopt a relationship‐oriented perspective. Two aspects of a relationship‐orientation ‐ trust and relationship commitment ‐ were examined by surveying senior...

Purpose – Collaboration has been referred to as the driving force behind effective supply chain management and may be the ultimate core capability. However, there is a fairly widespread belief that few firms have truly capitalized on its potential. A study was undertaken to assess the current...

Purpose – This paper is intended to extend previous research by exploring the scope of integration and its impact on firm performance. In addition to, examining dyadic integrative relationships, the research also looks at firm‐wide process‐oriented integration. Design/methodology/approach...

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to empirically develop a valid measurement scale for process orientation – a critical supply chain management (SCM) concept that warrants greater study. Design/methodology/approach – This study follows the measurement development approach proposed by...

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine how organizational structural factors (namely decentralization, formalization, and specialization) influence a firm's logistics service innovation capability and firm performance. Design/methodology/approach – A conceptual model is proposed...

Many of today's most successful companies have decided to focus on their core business and purchase other functional needs from outside vendors. Time and resource constraints make utilization of public or contract warehousing providers an attractive option. Because of their specialized...

Benchmarking has become more commonplace in recent years as managers sought to improve their firms' operations by examining strategic practices of leading companies. The focus of the current research is the benchmarking of logistics among United States manufacturers. The researchers explore the...