Journal of Supply Chain Management: Research and Practice
Editorial Policy Journal of Supply Chain Management: Research and Practice is an interdisciplinary journal that welcomes submissions from scholars in disciplines related to logistics and supply chain management. Journal of Supply Chain Management: Research and Practice accepts both research and academic papers. Quantitative and qualitative studies are both encouraged as long as they are methodologically rigorous. The journal does not publish manuscripts about teaching materials methods, or articles that merely criticize previous work. On The other hand, works that discuss theoretical, empirical, practical or pedagogical issues, and from practitioners are welcome. Structured articles from practitioners are also welcome. Journal of Supply Chain Management: Research and Practice is published twice a year, in June and December. Manuscripts are accepted on the understanding that they (or a major portion of the work that lead to the creation of the manuscripts) have not been, nor will be, published elsewhere. Based on the decision of the editors, manuscripts will be submitted to triple blind reviews. The final decision on publication rests with the Managing Editor. A set of guidelines for authors can be found on the back pages of the journal. All manuscripts on acceptance become the copyright of Assumption University. For more information and or submission, please visit www.aujm.au.edu.
ADVANCED GLOBAL OUTSOURCING STRATEGIES APPLIEDTO OPERATING EXPENDITURE REDUCTION IN NETWORKOPERATING CENTER SERVICES
This study investigates the commercial and cost-saving impacts of Advanced Global Outsourcing strategies—namely Request for Information (RFI), Request for Proposal (RFP), and Electronic Reverse Auction (eRA)—on Network Operating Center (NOC) services within the African telecommunication sector. It evaluates their effectiveness in reducing total costs using a Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) framework. Utilizing a comparative study methodology of a case company, the research analyzes internal procurement and operational data of existing five vendors across five Operating Companies (OPCOs) with the collected pricing data at each stage of the multi-staged procurement process RFI, RFP and eRA in the global outsourcing environment. The findings reveal a progressive reduction in costs from RFI to eRA, with eRA yielding the most significant OPEX savings. By applying TCO analysis, this study offers practical insights for optimizing vendor management and reducing operational expenditures (OPEX) through structured sourcing frameworks.
Advanced Global Outsourcing, Telecom OPEX, RFI, RFP, eRA, Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)
Piyawan Puttibarncharoensri Puttibarncharoensri
Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Supply Chain Management: Research and Practice
CHANGES AND THE IMPACT OF ONLINE THIRD-PARTYLOGISTICS COMPANY ON FAST-FOOD DELIVERY
This research examines the influence of online third-party logistics on fast-food delivery within the fast-paced environment of the fast-food industry. By comparing historical and current data on online orders, it reveals key trends—such as DoorDash’s marketplace orders, which surged from around $8 billion pre-pandemic to approximately $66.8 billion in 2023—bolstered by DoorDash’s acquisition of Wolt in 2022 (Beyrouthy, 2024). These findings contribute to a broader understanding of supply chain management in the fast-food sector. The research offers insights that can inform both industry practices and future studies. It also notes that the first U.S. restaurant meal delivery service, Worldwide Waiter (now Waiter.com), launched in 1995, initially serving 60 of Silicon Valley’s top restaurants. Furthermore, this study traces the history of food ordering and delivery—from Italy’s first documented delivery in 1889 to the practices of the Roman Empire and Indian methods in the late 1980s. By contrasting these early approaches with today’s advanced technologies, the research highlights the evolution and impact of logistics on fast-food delivery. It also explores current strategies for improving delivery processes, analyzes consumer perceptions and their effects on the industry, and evaluates the time-efficiency and cost-effectiveness of modern fast-food delivery systems.
Supply chain, Logistics, Third-party logistics, Fast-food delivery
OPTIMIZING INVENTORY MANAGEMENT IN THAI PRODUCTSWAREHOUSE: SKU RATIONALIZATION GUIDELINES FROM ATRAVEL RETAILER PERSPECTIVE
This study addresses inventory management challenges in a travel retail company, where a recently expanded warehouse reached full capacity within two years. The research investigates the root causes of the storage issue, identifying excess stock and ineffective SKU (Stock Keeping Unit) management as primary contributors. The paper proposes a systematic approach to SKU rationalization aimed at optimizing inventory, reducing costs, and improving turnover rates without negatively impacting customer satisfaction. The methodology integrates data-driven analysis of profitability, sales rates, and inventory turnover to guide decisions on retaining, discontinuing, or reassessing products. The findings demonstrate that SKU rationalization can enhance inventory control, streamline product assortment, and align stock levels with consumer demand, thereby improving operational efficiency and profitability. While the study provides actionable insights for managing the Thai Products category in travel retail, its applicability to other product categories warrants further exploration. Recommendations are made for implementing targeted SKU reduction strategies to balance inventory optimization with customer service requirements, contributing to more effective supply chain management in retail contexts.
REDUCTION OF RICE PROCESSING TIME USING LEAN CONCEPTS: A CASE STUDY OF A HUMANITARIAN ORGANIZATION
This study investigates the STAR organization, a humanitarian group in Myanmar, addressing delays in food delivery operations. The organization experienced an average lead time of 66 days—21 days longer than the target of 45 days—between the contract stage and warehouse delivery. Ensuring timely food delivery is critical to STAR’s mission. Lean tools, including process mapping, fishbone diagrams, and five-whys analysis, were employed to identify and resolve root causes of delays. Data from 2023–2024 and employee interviews supported the redesign of processes, implementation of actionable steps, and improved monitoring procedures. Implemented in early 2024, these changes eliminated the 21-day delay and further reduced delivery time by 8 days, achieving a total lead time reduction of 29 days. This study highlights the potential of Lean methodologies to enhance the efficiency of humanitarian supply chains.
ORDER PLACEMENT PROCESS ENHANCEMENT BY USING SIX SIGMA DMAIC: A CASE STUDY OF INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATION
This study focuses on delays in the procurement process at the International Development Organization (IDO), which provides infrastructure, project management, and procurement services for donors. The aim was to reduce procurement lead time to the minimum and improve the order placement process using the Six Sigma DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) methodology. Data from January to June 2024 was collected through the IDO ERP system. The root causes of delays were identified through analysis, observation, and the use of improvement tools like the Detailed Process Flow Chart, Run Chart, and Pareto Analysis. These tools helped pinpoint possible delays, redundancies, and major reasons for inefficiencies. Improvement plans were created through brainstorming sessions and implemented effectively, resulting in a significant reduction in the average procurement lead time. Control plans were established for continuous improvement, ensuring the enhancements could be sustained over time. Overall, the study achieved its objectives and streamlined the procurement process.
THE INFLUENCE OF SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY CHAIN ON MOBILE PHONE PURCHASING AMONG GENERATION Z IN THAILAND:A CASE STUDY OF A PRIVATE INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
This study examines how sustainable supply chain practices in the mobile phone industry influence the purchasing decisions of Generation Z consumers. The research surveyed 403 Generation Z consumers at a private university in Thailand, using quantitative methods such as linear and multi-linear regressions, along with descriptive and inferential analysis, to assess the impact of sustainable versus unsustainable supply chain structures on decision-making. The findings indicate that sustainable supply chain practices—especially those that ensure transparency throughout the production and operational processes—positively influence Generation Z’s preference for sustainable mobile phone brands. Furthermore, brands that prioritize sustainability are perceived as offering added value, establishing a competitive advantage in the market.
DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION OF SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT FOR TOURISM INDUSTRY IN THAILAND
The objective of this research is to explore how digital transformation impacts supply chain management of tourism industry in Thailand. The case study analysis method is conducted using in-depth interview and documentary analysis from relevant organizations. The study found the following; digital technology in supply chain management enables hotels to offer more cohesive and customized services, ultimately improving operational effectiveness and driving customer engagement. While digital transformation offers significant benefits, the industry’s unique requirements and financial limitations present substantial obstacles to the widespread adoption of new technologies. A cohesive policy framework and collaborative ecosystem are essential to support digital transformation in the tourism supply chain. Such initiatives would enable businesses to leverage digital tools more effectively, increase operational efficiency, and better meet customer needs.
SUPPLY CHAIN RISK MANAGEMENT IN HUMANITARIANOPERATIONS IN MYANMAR
This study focused on the supply chain risk management process by identifying and evaluating of current and potential supply chain risk as well as developing of appropriate measures to response the identified risks and build supply chain resilience. Its purpose is to reinforce the supply chain risk management of humanitarian organizations in Myanmar under the current complex operating environment. The qualitative method was employed by conducting interviews with three different humanitarian organizations. In the interview, 5 steps of supply chain risk management and mitigation processes have been applied. Moreover, supply chain mapping and risk matrix (ABC analysis) tools have been used to explore and assess the supply chain risks. As the result, the research findings can be applied in improving of the supply chain risk management systems of other organizations by reflecting to the current context.
Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of Supply Chain Management: Research and Practice
FUEL SUPPLY SHORTAGE RISK: A CASE STUDY OF HUMANITARIAN ORGANIZATION “MEDICAL AID MYANMAR”
This study, which is a case of supply chain risks faced by Medical Aid Myanmar (MAM) within its fuel supply operations, aims to identify the risks, assess their impact, and propose strategies to mitigate these risks, to enhance MAM’s operational stability. Data from 2022 to 2023 was collected through qualitative interviews and risk assessments, classifying 25 risks into high-priority (Zone A), moderate-priority (Zone B), and low-priority (Zone C) categories. Key findings include high-priority risks such as political instability and supply disruptions, which pose significant threats to MAM’s fuel supply chain. Mitigation strategies were developed, focusing on increasing resilience and managing identified risks. The study emphasizes that systematic risk identification and effective mitigation measures improve risk management practices. Recommendations include adopting comprehensive risk management strategies and ongoing monitoring to be in line with Myanmar’s current operational challenges.
WAREHOUSING FACILITIES IN URBAN SPACE: THE CHALLENGES OF “PROXIMITY LOGISTICS”
Warehouses are returning to city centers in the US and Europe, reversing a decades-long trend. This radical change is due to the desire of many e-tailers to deliver as quickly as possible to consumers who have ordered products online, adopting the same-day delivery model. Various business cases, including Amazon’s, demonstrate that the battle over lead times is becoming a key element in e-tailers' strategies. To win this battle, it is essential to establish warehousing facilities as close as possible to consumers. Over the next few years, this shift will lead to profound changes in urban planning and city management. The same-day delivery model is being approached from an operational research perspective, particularly in terms of optimizing the location of micro-fulfillment centers. The research note also highlights the managerial challenges posed by consumers’ digital nomadism, alongside the importance of optimizing micro-fulfillment center locations through operational research.
THE OPTIMIZATION OF THE SALES ORDER DELIVERY PROCESS: A CASE STUDY OF A TELECOMMUNICATION COMPANY
This research paper aimed to improve the lead time of the sales ordering process and minimize the delivery lead time to distributors. The study employed the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control) model as a process improvement methodology. Through observations, interviews, and the application of various improvement tools and techniques, the root causes of delays in the sales ordering and delivery processes were identified. The study used a swim-lane process map to reveal connections among different processes and a fishbone diagram to determine the root causes of the issue, allowing for validation of current process execution. The proposed improvement plan includes several measures such as modifications to the order placement process, real-time payment integration, automated order verification and release, and the adoption of a decentralized distribution strategy. These changes are expected to streamline processes, reduce lead time, and ultimately improve customer satisfaction and overall business performance.
DMAIC, Process, Fishbone Diagram, Improvement Plan
PICKING PRODUCTIVITY: A CASE STUDY OF FASHION RETAIL WAREHOUSE
This research presents a case study conducted in a fashion retail warehouse, with the primary objective of addressing delays in the picking process to meet order fulfillment timelines. To identify and analyze the underlying reasons for picking inefficiencies, the study employed various tools, including assessing picker skill, evaluating the shelf layout, conducting an ABC analysis of inventory, and utilizing a Fishbone diagram. Data collection for the research encompassed the use of picking forms, direct observations, interviews with personnel, and historical data analysis. As a result of these efforts, the study identified five root causes, as depicted in the causes and effects diagram. To rectify the issue of prolonged picking lead times, the researcher proposed five distinct solutions, accompanied by control strategies aimed at measuring and sustaining the improvements achieved. The company has reaped numerous benefits from implementing these recommendations. In summary, the research findings unequivocally demonstrate a significant enhancement in the productivity of the picking process.
Seven Wastes, Fishbone Diagram, Layout Design, DMAIC
THE EFFECT OF APPLYING LEAN SIX SIGMA (LSS) ON WAREHOUSE WASTE LEVEL A CASE STUDY ON I.V.L DHUNSERI POLYESTER COMPANY S.A.E
Lean six sigma (LSS) has been widely acknowledged throughout the last decade in the Industrial affaires. The research is conducted to understand the LSS application effect on the waste level reduction in the PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) industry. The purpose of the study that will be used is to understand the effectiveness of Lean Six Sigma (LSS). The research paper encompasses both descriptive and empirical approaches. The application of this research only took into consideration the PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) industry. Surveying dataset was the main source of the primary data in addition to the secondary data which was collected and obtained from I.V.L Dhunseri Polyester Company S.A.E as well. The data set consisted of 366 observations of time series data points for waste levels. The methodology used was exploratory factor analysis to reduce dimensions followed by the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), structural equation modelling (SEM) and time series analysis combined with dummy ARIMA model. The descriptive analysis was via pie charts and computing the mean and standard deviation for Likert scaled statements. Also, for deeper insights the pareto analysis was used. It was noticed that there are problems that arise during the supply chain processes. One among the most reported problems are the unnecessary costs and the defects presence due to wastes and pushes a greater motive for companies like I.V.L Dhunseri Polyester Company S.A.E to consider LSS. The research realizes that there is a drastic increment throughout the efficiency and profit effectiveness. Due to large sample size the T paired test shall be used. In general, the waste level was different from before and after application of LSS. It was also found that, all the statements were reliable and valid when confirmatory factor analysis was applied. After modelling, a significant relationship between the application of LSS five processes and the level of waste reduction were found. A dummy ARIMA (1,1,2) was a good fit for data. The application of LSS was found out to have a significant negative effect on the waste level.
Lean six sigma (LSS), warehouses management, waste management, I.V.L Dhunseri Polyester Company S.A.E, PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) industry
ASPHALT PAVING PRODUCTIVITY IMPROVEMENT: A CASE STUDY OF SLS COMPANY IN THAILAND
This study is a case of a road construction company in Thailand. The company was facing a higher lead time for laying asphalt. The total amount of production of laying asphalt from July 2022 to April 2023. The standard time is 206.84 hours, while the actual time is 573 hours, resulting in an extra 366.16. This research aimed to identify problems, find solutions, and implement appropriate measures to improve the production time of laying asphalt. Recommendations, solutions, and preventive actions were provided to improve the production time of laying asphalt and prevent recurrent problems. This research applied the DMAIC concept to define the problems, measure the actual performance, analyze the root causes of the problem by applying the Fishbone diagram and Pareto chart, and identify the improvement of the current process. The main root causes of this issue were machines, the environment, and people. The result after implementing the improvement plan was successful. Since the implementation started, the asphalt laying production time has gradually decreased. In comparison to the actual time with the standard time, indicating a satisfactory outcome as the actual time is lower than the standard time. The DMAIC concept can improve the production time for laying asphalt. As a result, the DMAIC is an effective tool to improve the company's production process.
Supply chain management, DMAIC, Fishbone diagram, Pareto chart, Brainstorming
ENHANCING LOGISTICS SERVICES THROUGH THE APPLICATION OF LEAN SIX SIGMA METHODOLOGY: A CASE STUDY
The study focused on analyzing warehouse operations at MARIO Logistics and Freight Forwarding. The warehouse operations experienced a recurring damage issue. The aim was to address key challenges, notably issues related to damaged bags during warehouse operations. The study used the SIPOC framework, Fishbone diagram, and FMEA to identify the root causes that contribute to process defects. The study recommends several actions to improve the organization such as implementing thorough staff training programs, establishing standardized processes, improving communication and coordination, implementing strong quality control measures, and upgrading technology infrastructure. Developed and applied to real operation in May and June 2023 and maintained to the present. The actions that were implemented resulted in significant improvements. The measures taken successfully eliminated damaged goods in the warehouse, reducing it to 0% which was 0.29% and 0.10% respectively.
DMAIC, FMEA, logistics, operational efficiency
AN IMPROVEMENT OF INSTRUMENTS UTILIZATION: A CASE STUDY OF GLOBAL MEDICAL DEVICE COMPANY
The objective of this project is to study the as-is process that Global Med Company (Global Med) has performed in the operation on an inbound and outbound basis. The reason for this deep analysis is the delay in serving the instrument of Global Med from July 2020 to December 2020. The delay and unutilized instrument cases have contributed to the loss of the company, both from financial and non-financial views. Especially delay in the supply or delivery of the instrument set will result in the postponement or cancellation of the operation, as well as a case and complaint from the customer. Applying a process map (swim lane) was to see the linkage between the processes and a Cause and Effect diagram (Fishbone) to identify the causes of the problem and prove whether current processes are being performed. To figure out how to improve the operational process, consider transportation routes, reverse logistics, and rescheduling to help improve the lead time from start to return to the distribution warehouse or movement between one drop and another drop. Developed and applied to real operations from January 2021 to December 2021 and maintained to the present. The results from each tool have affected the Global Med Company's service performance by improving by 3% to meet the customer’s requirements for 12 months in 2021 and by a significant 2% in 2022.
Operation, Process, Improvement, Instruments
Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of Supply Chain Management: Research and Practice
IMPROVING THE LANDED COST OF IMPORTING FOOD FROM FRANCE
This research is a case study of a Thai importing company. The company was facing a significant increase in landed costs. The objectives of this research were to identify problems, find solutions, and implement appropriate actions to improve the landed cost of food importation from France. Recommendations, solutions, and preventive actions were provided to improve and reduce the cost of this business as well as avoid recurrent problems. This research applied tools approach to define the problems, measure the current performance, analyze the root causes of the problem, and identify improvements to the current process. The researcher also suggested an improvement plan with recommendations to achieve a sustainable process of operational improvement for the company. The result has shown a significant improvement in the delivery performance of the suppliers after implementing the improvement plan. The two major root causes, a gross price, and a freight charge, had been reduced, lowering the landed cost of food importation. The company still needs to have continuous improvement to develop a process to be more efficient. This is to ensure a sustained improvement is carried out with practical monitoring to prevent recurrent problems.
France; Landed costs; Importation; Freight charge; Supply chain management.
DEVELOPING AIR LOGISTICS HUB IN AFRICA: A CASE STUDY OF CAIRO AIRPORT
Africa and Europe have the best air connections, thus it's feasible that some volumes going to industrial sites, which are often in Asia, may have to pass through Europe first due to poor air connections or for consolidation reasons. As a result, this paper seeks to establish Egypt as an air logistics hub in Africa. Egypt has been selected as the African hub in this study because of its geographical location in the middle of Europe, Asia, and northern Africa, making it a desirable and advantageous place for the hub. The study's findings demonstrated that African hubs had significantly higher levels of connection and temporal coordination than European hubs. International courier firms would be best to engage in Africa as there are several obstacles owing to the difficulty in accessing information for development and the region's poor infrastructure. Additionally, as no African airport appears to have a clear advantage according to the literature analysis and reports, this article will analyze the best way to establish an aviation hub in Africa. As a conclusion, it will be simple to compare the competitive advantages of international airport hubs with those of African hubs and have a clearer understanding of the challenges that Africa faces.
Africa, Air Hub, Air Transport, Airport, Egypt, Logistics
NECESSITY OF AGRICULTURAL COMMODITY DERIVATIVES MARKET FOR OVERCOMING THE PROBLEMS IN THE AGRICULTURAL SUPPLY CHAIN OF BANGLADESH: A REVIEW AND WAY FORWARD
This study attempts to provide an in depth review on the agricultural commodity derivatives and its necessity in the context of Bangladesh and explains how an inception of the market would be beneficial for mitigating the problems of agricultural supply chain of the country. Through an extensive study of secondary sources of data it shows that the agricultural supply chain of the country is highly dominated by the entities prevailing between the farmers and the final consumers. Besides, increased price of inputs of agricultural production is also an important factor of concern for the country. In this circumstance, in light of the potential benefits of an agricultural commodity derivatives market, a detailed study is required to determine whether the establishment of such a market would be a viable remedy for the problems facing the agricultural supply chain in Bangladesh.
Agricultural commodities, Derivatives, Supply chain, Price risk, Underlying asset
THE IMPROVEMENT OF THE NON-VALUE-ADDED ACTIVITIES IN THE 3-IN-1 INSTANT FOOD PRODUCTION PROCESS BY APPLYING LEAN TOOLS
This research represents one of the first large-scale, automatic process control system empirical efforts to systematically investigate and apply the Lean manufacturing methodology. The Lean tools can help to define, measure, and analyze the problem in this research. This study aimed to eliminate the waste, which causes the multiple steps from material handling to the production process by analyzing and identifying the root causes. After the simulation model was developed, the author compared the As-Is and To-Be outcomes, which are significantly different. The conclusion of this study showed that the total cycle time of the whole process is reduced from 70 minutes to 36 minutes and the batch size of work-in-process was also increased from 360 kg to 500 kg per cycle. Overall efficiency is seen to have increased in all processes where Lean principles have been carefully selected and applied.
5S Methodology, Kaizen, Lean Manufacturing Methodology, Material Handling & Process Control, Non-Valued-Added Activities
AN IMPROVEMENT OF THE LEAD TIME IN COLLABORATIVE DEMAND PLANNING BY APPLYING LEAN SIX SIGMA
This study applied the Lean Six Sigma methodology to improve the lead time of Collaborative Demand Planning (CDP) which is done every month to identify the supply and demand, forecasting, and replenishment in HELP International, which is a humanitarian organization. The CDP is crucial in the organization so that the right items with the right quantities are distributed to the beneficiaries on time. Using the Lean Six Sigma by adopting the Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control (DMAIC) concept, the problem was defined, the collected data was analyzed, the factors affecting the longer CDP process lead time were identified, the action plan was recommended for improvement, and the control plan was proposed to be sustainable. The Value Stream Map (VSM) Lean tool was used to have a better understanding of the current process, and the Fishbone analysis was conducted in the measure phase of DMAIC. As a result, the organization found out that the main causes were the steps of CDP, which are reviewing, finalizing the presentation slides, validation process, and reviewing the MRP messages. To eliminate these factors and improve the lead time, the Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) was utilized, and the action plan was recommended for process improvement. Finally, the Lean Six Sigma concept has helped the organization to reduce the CDP lead time from 14 working days to 7 working days, and it enabled to assist the beneficiaries affected by armed conflict and other violence on time.
CDP, Lean Six Sigma, VSM, Fishbone analysis, FMEA
INFORMATION MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE OF HUMANITARIAN ORGANIZATIONS: THE CASE OF KENYA RED CROSS SOCIETY
Information management plays a pivotal function in humanitarian aid and disaster management. The effective management of information and its application in the relief supply chains boosts the efficiency of the humanitarian operations. There has been an upsurge in incidences of disasters, both native and artificial in Kenya leaving devastating effects to the human population. This has been contributed to by the underdeveloped information system of the majority of the humanitarian organizations in Kenya. This informed the objective of the study which was to determine the effects of information management on the performance of humanitarian organizations. The study adopted a descriptive survey research with Kenya Red Cross Society as a case study. The findings revealed that information management had a positive and significant effect on the performance of humanitarian organizations in disaster management. This implied that information management systems would enable humanitarian organizations to monitor the entire logistics value chain in all locations with integrated systems providing real time visibility of demand forecast information, inventory levels and distribution schedules. Hence Humanitarian organizations should adopt modern and robust technology in information and communication that would guarantee accurate and timely information and at the same time allow for real-time visuality along the logistics chain.
Information Management, Humanitarian Organization, Performance
THE IMPACT OF LOGISTICS ON PRODUCT ASSORTMENT POLICY: AN ILLUSTRATION WITH Q-COMMERCE
A new stage in the evolution of e-commerce, quick commerce (or Q-commerce) is expanding rapidly on several continents. Its business model is based on ultrafast delivery since the online shopper receives the product between 10 and 15 minutes after ordering via an application on his/her smartphone. Q-commerce introduces a real supply chain revolution thanks to the promise of a much shorter delivery time than in traditional e-commerce. However, this reactivity introduces a double constraint: Q-commerce companies can only offer their shoppers a very limited product assortment, and the preparation of orders requires the presence of multiple micro-fulfillment centers, or dark stores, in the heart of cities. This research note proposes a reflection on the stakes and the future of Q-commerce, by underlining that the product assortment policy, in other words the retailer’s offer strategy, is strongly conditioned by the efficient organization of the logistical operations.
Dark stores; Last mile; Logistics; Q-commerce; Ultrafast delivery.
DARK SIDE OF LOGISTICS: AN OPERATIONAL SUPPORT FOR HUMAN TRAFFICKING
The human trafficking is a societal phenomenon that is gaining ground in many countries. This fact has been studied for several years from various angles, most often using sociological or legal approaches. The research note opts for another point of view: the analysis of supply chains which can be considered as the “back office” of prostitution as human trafficking. This is a sensitive topic for management research, which may offend the general public, but it also raises a key question: should we refrain from tackling issues that are morally reprehensible, but which nevertheless refer to an indisputable social reality? The juvenile prostitution relies on an efficient organization of logistical activities handled by a multitude of stakeholders, who coordinate to satisfy the demand from clients. Based on secondary data and studies conducted by various academicians specialized in legal sciences and the humanities, this research note proposes a framework for analysing the supply chains associated with juvenile prostitution in the French context. The reflection offers promising perspectives on a central theme, but one that is too rarely addressed in academic work.
France; Prostitution; Sensitive topics; Supply chain management; Underage girls.
Copyright (c) 2022 Journal of Supply Chain Management: Research and Practice
The Impact of Digitization of Marine Services in Suez Canal
Digital transformation has been a hot topic in recent years. Marine services are one of the key sectors for digital transformation. Suez Canal authority is facing pressure to become smarter and to improve how it transacts with customers. Therefore, the main objective of this paper is to examine the implementation of digital transformation and its effect on the quality of marine services within the case study of Suez Canal Authority (SCA). Moreover, it aimed to study the concept of digital transformation and the associated technologies, and highlight the digital trends and discuss the admissible dimensions of service quality in the marine domain. This paper undertakes an exploratory approach on SCA by conducting a survey with the aim of examining various aspects pertaining to the variables being investigated, which are digital transformation and service quality. The findings of this research revealed a significant positive effect of digital transformation on quality of marine services.
Digitization, marine service, quality, Suez Canal, technology transformation
This study applied the DMAIC (Define, measure, analyze, improve, and control) method to improve the export lead time. The export operation is considered in the optimization of lead time in supply chain management which mainly focuses on export daily operation in the internal process in the company. To understand the risk area, process mapping is used to show the existing export process and find out the critical issue to be analyzed. Then, the fishbone diagram is applied to analyze the export process and help the company identify the root cause of the problem. Next, brainstorming is applied to find the alternative solution. The best solution was identifying and selecting to improve the current process. The implementation plan was proposed to related export process members in order to implement the new process of the export procedure and workflow for achieving sustainable procedures to improve the company’s operations. After the implementation of the best alternative solution, the process has shown significant improvement in lead time performance. The company gains advantages from the increased capacity in workload and lead time reduction. These contribute to the standardization work in the export operation of the company.
Export process, DMAIC, process mapping, fishbone diagram, brainstorming
FACTORS FOR ADOPTION OF THE MILK RUN SYSTEM IN THE PARCEL TRANSPORTATION BUSINESS
This study aimed to study factors for adopting the Milk Run system in the parcel transportation business in Thailand. Questionnaires were used as the research tool to collect data. The sample group in this study was 300 respondents who are employees of a parcel transportation service business. Descriptive statistics were analysed, including percentage, mean, standard deviation, inferential statistics, and structural equation modelling (SEM). The results reveal that perceived ease of use in the Milk Run system (PEU) had a positive impact on the service quality in the Milk Run system (QS) and the perceived benefit factor in the Milk Run system (PU). In addition, PU also positively impacted trust in the Milk Run system (TR), while PU, PEU, and QS had no impact on the intention to use the Milk Run system (ATT). However, only TR had an impact on ATT. This study also shows that ATT positively impacted the intention to use the Milk Run system (BI). The study highlights the significance of the implementation influence of the Milk Run system on parcel transportation and extends the current knowledge regarding the Milk Run system and its potential impact on the parcel transportation business in Thailand.
Milk Run system, Adoption, Technology Acceptance Model, Parcel transportation business
SUPER DISRUPTIONS AND SUPPLY CHAIN CRISES: THE CASE OF LUMBER IN THE UNITED STATES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020-2021 wreaked havoc on supply chains around the world. The forest products industry and, specifically, the lumber industry have been no exception with the price of lumber rising in the United States to levels not seen since the housing boom of the post-World War II period. The rise has also affected downstream industries such as the creation of single and multi-family housing and transportation products such as pallets. This study examined empirical evidence to determine if the lumber industry crisis qualified as a super disruption versus an instantaneous disruption by examining the four criteria of impact, scope, recovery, and timing. The study found that the lumber industry met all four of these characteristics as they relate to a super disruption or a supply chain crisis. An outline is then presented to develop a responsive and dynamic supply chain management business model that attempts to integrate resilience and adaption at different stages of an outbreak or crisis.
COVID-19 pandemic, Housing Supply, Instantaneous Disruptions, Logistics, Lumber, Operational Risks, Ripple Effects, Super Disruptions, Supply Chain Crises, Supply Chain Resilience
A SUPPLY CHAIN RISK EVALUATION MODEL BASED ON INTEGRATION OF DATA CHARACTERISTICS AND SUBJECTIVE PREFERENCE
In order to assess supply chain risks quantitatively, a multi-attribute group decision-making evaluation model that integrating the data characteristics of decision matrix and subjective preferences of expert groups is proposed. The objective weights of the indicators are obtained based on the data characteristics of the decision matrix, and then the subjective weights of the indicators are obtained on the basis of the preference information of the expert group about the importance of the indicators. The comprehensive weight of the indicator is determined by the convex combination of the objective and subjective weights. Finally, comprehensive evaluation are performed for the evaluation objects. The model has a small amount of calculation and is easy to operate. A case study has verified the validity and practicability of the model.
Index weights, Data characteristics, Subjective preference, Relative entropy
ONLINE LOGISTICS SERVICE QUALITY: A CASE STUDY OF CHINESE HOME APPLIANCE RETAILING DELIVERY
The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship among online logistics service quality (OLSQ), service price ( SP), customer satisfaction (CS) and loyalty (LY) in B2C ecommerce retailing. Furthermore, the study established eight dimensions to evaluate and analyze the relationship among online logistics service quality. Drawing upon a sample of 435 respondents and worked within the framework of structural equation modeling ( SEM). Finally, the result indicated that OLSQ, SP statistically influenced CS. Similarly, there is a significant positive relationship between OLSQ and LY, CS and LY.
Copyright (c) 2021 Journal of Supply Chain Management: Research and Practice