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The Issues, Conflicts, And The Network

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Define the situation (case summary) Define the major issues, conflicts, and the network . Describe the options (alternatives) for solving these issues. Several internal and external influences serve as contributing factors in the reconsideration of the company’s current system. Changes in customer demands, domestic and global competition, and a unique decentralized management system is now forcing the Westminster Company to reevaluate their traditional supply chain practices. (Bowersox & M.B., 2014) Westminster’s domestic operations consist of three separate companies that sell and distribute products to several of the same customers. (Bowersox & M.B., 2014) At first glance consolidation of the systems can significantly improve …show more content…

Define the effect of transportation on the situation Greater prospects are available for truckload shipping volumes with consolidated distribution centers and assorted product shipments. This would necessitate fewer outbound shipments, with each in larger quantities for better transportation savings. The possible longer distances from distribution centers to customer locations might be the only disadvantage to transportation cost.
Define what the impact on inventory and warehouse cost would be? Fixed costs are generally a concern with warehousing. Many companies are streamlining their manufacturing and distribution network by consolidating and centralizing their logistics operations. (Ou, 2002) Warehouse consolidation is a key component of the logistics strategy. When the products are high in value and when transportation costs are insignificant compared to inventory and ordering cost, consolidation can be pursued with great enthusiasm. Also, outsourcing warehouse functions has proven to be a good idea when the product in question has a seasonal, cyclical, or uncertain sales nature. One recent example of manufacturing consolidation is Colgate-Palmolive establishing a new facility in Greenwood County. “Greenwood County had a building that was a perfect fit for our needs, offers us a talented workforce and excellent market access” said Mike Corbo, Vice President-Global Supply Chain, for Colgate-Palmolive. (Skipper, 2013) That “perfect fit” comes thanks to

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