Supply‐chain management and time‐based competition: the role of the supplier association

Abstract

Develops the concept of time‐based competitive strategies within the context of supply‐chain management. Explores the current interest in supplier integration as a source of competitive advantage in consumer markets and proposes that the Japanese influenced network sourcing model provides a method whereby the advantages of vertical integration can be achieved without reducing the flexibility of product and material outsourcing. A central feature of the network sourcing approach is the use of supplier co‐ordination and development, facilitated by a supplier forum known as a supplier association. These associations represent a series of linking pins, extending from the focal purchasing organization, whereby the joint determination of supply chain improvements can be formulated and shared between a focal customer organization and entire groups of suppliers. Argues that the successful exploitation of these associations is a major pillar in developing and sustaining continuous improvement on a supply‐chain scale, where the efforts of each and every supplier are aligned to the changing requirements of the consumer market.

Citation

Rich, N. and Hines, P. (1997), "Supply‐chain management and time‐based competition: the role of the supplier association", International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, Vol. 27 No. 3/4, pp. 210-225. https://doi.org/10.1108/09600039710170584