Supplier Relationship Management Research Articles

Dropshipping Strategies in Luxury and Fashion Retail - Unveiling the Potential

Purpose: Dropshipping, a supply chain management model where the retailer does not keep goods in stock but instead transfers customer orders and shipment details to either the manufacturer, another retailer, or a wholesaler who then ships the goods directly to the customer, has gained significant traction in various industries. However, its application in luxury and fashion retail remains unexplored. This study aims to investigate the potential of dropshipping strategies within the context of luxury and fashion retail, analyzing its benefits, challenges, and implications for businesses operating in this sector. Methodology: This research employs a comprehensive review of existing literature, case studies, and industry trends to gather insights into dropshipping practices in luxury and fashion retail. Findings: Our analysis reveals that dropshipping offers promising opportunities for luxury and fashion retailers to enhance operational efficiency, expand market reach, and provide exceptional customer experiences. Challenges such as maintaining brand reputation and managing supplier relationships are identified and discussed. Unique contribution to theory policy and practice: This paper contributes to the existing literature by shedding light on the application of dropshipping in the luxury and fashion retail sector. It provides practical recommendations for retailers to leverage dropshipping effectively, thereby advancing both theoretical understanding and practical implications for industry stakeholders and policymakers.

An Exploratory Study for Performance Improvement through Supplier Client Services Framework

This research is aimed to study on supplier relationship management particularly on service procurement of the oil and gas industry in Malaysia. Volatile oil price and COVID-19 pandemic required oil and gas companies to re-evaluate their supply chain strategies to minimise the impact. One of the strategies was to build better relationships with suppliers. Based on literature, services procurement is much more complex than goods procurement. The literature reviewed the topic of the oil and gas industry, outsourcing and subcontracting and supplier relationship management. In details, different elements of supplier relationship management are discussed such as its model, benefits, influencing factors and types of suppliers and relationships were discussed. From the literature review, a conceptual framework was developed. “Case study” is adopted as the research method as it provides sophisticated insight on the research topic. Four companies were interviewed to understand the supplier relationship management process. The research findings show that there are different supplier relationship management processes adopted by the four companies selected for case study. All companies agreed that they gained benefits with better supplier relationships. However, all the companies are facing difficulties in implementation of supplier relationship management. In addition, the interviewees expect their suppliers to be more competent in terms of cost, time and quality to contribute to a better buyer-supplier relationship. The conceptual framework is revised based on the research findings and presented as one of the findings.

Optimizing retail prosperity: Strategic working capital management and its impact on the global economy

This study explores the critical role of the retail sector in the global economy and the importance of working capital management within retail businesses. Recognizing retail’s influence beyond just income generation, the research examines its impact on economic stability, job creation, and national GDP, and how it links industries such as manufacturing and logistics. Employing a blended-methods approach, the study integrates quantitative analysis using AMOS software with qualitative insights from interviews with financial managers and retail experts. Key focus areas include cash flow management, market demand, and supplier relationship management in the context of working capital management. Findings highlight the necessity of effective working capital management in maintaining financial stability, optimizing shareholder wealth, and ensuring long-term business viability in the retail sector. Strategies for enhancing profitability, such as improving supplier relationships and adapting to market demands, are identified. This research contributes to understanding the economic impact of the retail sector and the intricacies of working capital management. It offers insights for policymakers, retail managers, and academics, emphasizing the need for supportive retail industry measures and effective financial management practices. The study fills a gap in literature and sets a foundation for future research in this critical area of economic studies and retail management.

Managing Operations and Supply Chains in Automotive Industry

Profitability, customer satisfaction, and innovation in the cutthroat automobile industry depend on well-managed operations and supply networks. Managing operations and supply chains in the automotive industry is complex, and this paper lays forth a comprehensive framework for doing so. An integral part of effective operations management in the automotive industry is demand forecasting and planning. Using collaborative forecasting methodologies, market trend analysis, and advanced analytics, automotive manufacturers can improve production schedules, minimize inventory costs, and foresee changes in demand. Reducing waste, enhancing process efficiency, and managing low inventory levels are all achieved through the use of lean manufacturing techniques like Just-in-Time (JIT) production and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM). Collaboration with suppliers, uninterrupted material flow, and supply chain innovation can all be achieved through supplier relationship management (SRM). Automakers may enhance product quality, cut costs, and lessen supply chain risks by communicating openly, working together to improve processes, and forming agreements that benefit all parties involved. Automobile companies can't afford to have any product flaws that damage their reputation or the loyalty of their customers, which is why quality management is so important in this industry. Statistical Process Control (SPC), Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), and Six Sigma are a few of the rigorous quality control methods that manufacturers use to find and rectify flaws early

Quantifying the influence of supplier relationship management and supply chain performance

Purpose: This study explores the impact of Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) practices on supply chain performance, with a focus on cost efficiency, within the dynamic context of Bangladesh. The purpose is to elucidate the relationships between SRM practices, specifically Supplier Collaboration, Supplier Development, Supplier Evaluation and Selection, and Long-Term Supplier Relationships, and their influence on cost efficiency within supply chains. Design/Methodology/Approach: A quantitative research approach was employed, utilizing regression analysis and correlation analysis to analyze data collected through a structured survey from 270 Participants within Bangladesh’s Manufacturing and Service Sectors. The research adopted a cross-sectional time horizon, providing a snapshot view of the relationships between SRM practices and cost efficiency. Findings: The findings reveal that Supplier Collaboration and Long-Term Supplier Relationships significantly and positively influence cost efficiency within the supply chains of Bangladeshi organizations. These SRM practices collectively contribute to approximately 64.2% of the variance in cost efficiency, emphasizing their critical role in optimizing supply chain performance. Research Limitations/Implications: Limitations of this study include its cross-sectional nature and the focus on a specific set of SRM practices. Future research can explore additional SRM dimensions and employ longitudinal approaches for deeper insights. Practical Implications: Practitioners can leverage the study's findings to enhance supply chain performance by implementing holistic SRM strategies, fostering collaborative supplier relationships, and nurturing long-term partnerships with suppliers. Social Implications: This research contributes to the broader economic landscape of Bangladesh by highlighting the importance of SRM practices in enhancing cost efficiency, which can ultimately lead to economic growth and competitiveness. Originality/Value: This study extends the understanding of SRM practices by examining their applicability and significance in an emerging market like Bangladesh. It underscores the originality and value of SRM as a strategic imperative for organizations operating in diverse contexts.

Supplier Relationship Management Practices and Firm Performance: Evidence from Small and Medium Enterprises in India

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the supplier relationship management practices and firm performance: evidence from small and medium enterprises in India.
 Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
 Findings: The study on Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) in Indian SMEs reveals a positive link between effective SRM practices and firm performance. It highlights benefits such as improved operational efficiency, cost reduction, and enhanced product quality. However, challenges like resource constraints hinder widespread adoption. Overall, prioritizing strong supplier relationships can boost SME competitiveness in India.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Transaction cost economics (TCE), resource dependency theory (RDT) & social exchange theory (SET) may be used to anchor future studies on analyze the supplier relationship management practices and firm performance: evidence from small and medium enterprises in India. SMEs could also benefit from capacity-building initiatives aimed at enhancing their negotiation skills, contract management capabilities, and technological adoption to facilitate efficient SRM processes. Policymakers can leverage research findings to design supportive policies aimed at strengthening the SME ecosystem in India.

LEVERAGING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE FOR ENHANCED SUPPLY CHAIN OPTIMIZATION: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF CURRENT PRACTICES AND FUTURE POTENTIALS

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into supply chain management has emerged as a crucial avenue for enhancing efficiency, agility, and responsiveness in modern business operations. This comprehensive review synthesizes current practices and future potentials of leveraging AI for supply chain optimization. Beginning with an overview of traditional supply chain management challenges, the review elucidates how AI solutions address these complexities by enabling predictive analytics, real-time visibility, and intelligent decision-making. The review delves into the diverse applications of AI across different stages of the supply chain, including demand forecasting, inventory management, logistics optimization, and supplier relationship management. Examples of AI-driven technologies such as machine learning, natural language processing, and robotic process automation are analyzed for their role in revolutionizing supply chain operations. Furthermore, the review highlights the transformative impact of AI on supply chain resilience, emphasizing its ability to mitigate disruptions, adapt to dynamic market conditions, and optimize resource allocation. The review also addresses critical considerations such as data privacy, ethical implications, and organizational readiness for AI adoption within supply chain contexts.  Lastly, the review discusses future research directions and potential advancements in AI-enabled supply chain management, envisioning intelligent autonomous supply chains characterized by self-learning systems, collaborative ecosystems, and enhanced sustainability practices. In conclusion, this review underscores the pivotal role of AI in driving continuous innovation and competitive advantage within supply chain networks, while also emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and responsible implementation to harness its full potential.
 Keywords:   AI, Supply Chain, Optimization, Practices, Review.

The ambiguous impact of supplier involvement in product development on supplier relationship resilience and company performance

PurposeI aimed to obtain a deeper insight into the link between supplier involvement in product development (SIPD), supplier relationship resilience and company performance.Design/methodology/approachTo collect data, a survey among 500 Polish manufacturing companies was conducted. I used quantitative methods (structural equation modeling) to test several research hypotheses referring to a single supplier–customer relationship. Thanks to the use of multi-construct measurement of SIPD and supplier relationship resilience, the study provides detailed research results on the topic.FindingsCollaborative practices implemented during SIPD increase procurement flexibility and decrease redundancy in the relationship with the involved supplier. Communication during SIPD increases supplier flexibility and procurement flexibility. Increased supplier flexibility and increased procurement flexibility in the relationship with the involved supplier as well as collaborative practices during SIPD positively impact company performance. I confirmed the indirect effect between communication during SIPD and company performance when the mediators are supplier flexibility and procurement flexibility. Decreased redundancy in relationship with involved supplier does not impact company performance.Practical implicationsSupply chain managers need to rethink SIPD practice to effectively ensure supply chain resilience (SCRES), especially in the face of the contemporary global crisis and black swans affecting the supplier base. My article provides important managerial insights into drivers of SCRES and company performance.Originality/valueTo the best of my knowledge, this research is among the first to conclude that SIPD does not have an unequivocally positive or direct impact on supplier relationship resilience. The research fills the gap by analyzing the impact of SIPD on two main SCRES elements. The study examines supplier relationship resilience, understood as flexibility and redundancy elements, in a single supplier–buyer relationship perspective. Thus, the presented considerations go beyond the traditional understanding of flexibility and redundancy in supplier relationship management, that is through the prism of double or multi sourcing and having back up-suppliers.

A multi-variable service supply management portfolio model for Telecom industry

Supply operations require some kind of classification according to the features of items. Based on the literature review and expert interview, a multi-variable service supply management portfolio model was developed to classify the procurable service items in the Telecom industry in a more realistic way with better precision. First, a multi-level relational reflective model was built based on four dimensions using the fuzzy Delphi method and the model was validated by factor analysis. Then, 50 service items were placed in 16 clusters of the portfolio model. For each category of services in the model, the pertinent supplier relationship management practices were proposed using the literature review accompanied by a focus group. The presented model contributed to the development of previous theoretical trends in supply management portfolio models by introducing a new dimension, called “pace of innovation in technology”, to those extracted from the literature review, such as “strategic importance of the items”, “supply risk”, and “extent of buyer captivity”. Despite the classical models targeting tangible goods and products, our model was customized for the service industry context and can be considered a starting point towards service supply market segmentation procedures according to the attributes of each service item category.

The Influence of Digital Innovation and Reputation on Buyer-Supplier Relationship Mediated by Supply Chain Flexibility

This research aims to determine and analyze the influence of digital innovation and reputation on the buyer-supplier relationship mediated by supply chain flexibility. Empirical study: PT vendors. Astra Daihatsu Motor. The method used in this research is quantitative research. The population in this research is the buyer-supplier of the Automotive Manufacturing Company Vendor PT. Astra Daihatsu Motor. The sample required for this research is around 222 respondents from 500 employees. So, the research results show that digital innovation positively impacts buyer-supplier relationships and supply chain flexibility. Likewise, company reputation also has a positive influence on these two variables. In addition, the results of the analysis show that supply chain flexibility mediates the relationship between digital innovation/reputation and buyer-supplier relationships. The practical implication of this research is the importance of investing in digital innovation and maintaining a company's reputation to strengthen business relationships and increase flexibility in dealing with changing markets and customer needs. This research provides insight for managers in managing supplier relationships, improving their supply chain performance through technology, and building a strong reputation.

The Role of Supplier Relationship Management to the Supply Chain Performance of an Organization; A Case of Inyange Industries in Kicukiro District, Rwanda

The Role of Supplier Relationship Management to the Supply Chain Performance of an Organization; A Case of Inyange Industries in Kicukiro District, Rwanda

ENHANCING SUPPLY CHAIN RESILIENCE THROUGH DIGITAL INTEGRATION: A CASE STUDY OF MOROCCAN BUSINESSES

This study examines Moroccan enterprises' digital transformation and supply chain resilience. To adapt to changing market situations, we examine digital integration attitudes and approaches. The results demonstrate that digital technologies are increasingly essential to corporate operations, responding strategically to market changes and strengthening supply chain resilience. This study offers a fresh perspective after the COVID-19 pandemic exposed global supply chain flaws. Digital technologies, remote supplier relationship management, and data security's rising importance in supply chain security are examined. Detailed supply contract analysis and supplier diversification are also critical. Health, safety, and operational continuity are stressed in this context, and effective staff management is essential to solving modern problems. Combining theoretical foundations with empirical investigation, this research examines digital integration and supply chain resilience. It advises Moroccan firms to enhance their defences against possible attacks. Digital transformation and strategic measures may help firms survive and thrive in today's dynamic business climate while maintaining a stable supply chain.

Supplier relationship management for enterprise development in the cement industry

Background: Local small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) are ready to join the cement mining companies’ supply chains. However, the perceived risks of doing business with SMMEs cause mines to be hesitant to engage in meaningful relationships with SMME suppliers.Aim: The aim of this study was to explore the nature of supplier relationship management (SRM) for enterprise and supplier development in a cement mining industry.Setting: The study is conducted in the cement mining companies and explores insights from SMMEs and cement mines insofar as SRM is concerned.Methods: The study employed a qualitative research approach, employing interviews as a research strategy and data collection method. In all, 16 individuals were purposively selected based on their expertise and experience in the area SRM for enterprise and supplier development in the cement mining industry. Thematic analysis was used as a data analysis method.Results: Following thematic data analysis, the following six themes emerged from the primary data: funding the relationship, skills development, segmenting suppliers, supplier compliance, information sharing, and supplier performance monitoring and evaluation.Conclusion: Enterprise and supplier development (ESD) programmes should be sufficiently formalised and funded. This will enable meaningful skills development for SMMEs with the specific focus on compliance and performance improvement. Enterprise and supplier development programmes should also be designed to facilitate information sharing between the mining company and SMMEs.Contribution: The study proposes the building blocks for SRM for enterprise and supplier development in the cement mining industry. The study further extends literature in the areas of SRM.

The Use of Material and Supply Chain Management and Service Organization to Reduce Inventory Levels While Providing Adequate Service to Customers

In the dynamic landscape of service organizations, effective Material and Supply Chain Management (MSCM) plays a pivotal role in achieving operational efficiency, cost reduction, and superior customer service. This research paper delves into the strategic application of MSCM practices to streamline inventory management processes within service-oriented industries, emphasizing the delicate balance between minimizing stock levels and meeting customer service expectations. The research aims to explore the various methodologies and technologies employed in service organizations to enhance material and supply chain operations. Emphasis will be placed on understanding how advanced technologies, data analytics, and automation contribute to minimizing excess inventory while concurrently ensuring prompt and satisfactory customer service. Key areas of investigation include the adoption of just-in-time inventory systems, demand forecasting models, and supplier relationship management strategies. The paper will critically assess case studies and industry best practices to draw insights into successful MSCM implementations and their impact on inventory levels, service quality, and overall organizational performance. Furthermore, the study will address challenges associated with implementing MSCM in service organizations, such as the inherent variability in service demand, the importance of real-time data integration, and the role of collaboration between various stakeholders within the supply chain. The anticipated outcomes of this research include providing service organizations with a comprehensive understanding of the benefits, challenges, and strategic considerations associated with adopting robust MSCM practices. The findings aim to contribute valuable insights to both academia and industry professionals seeking to optimize their material and supply chain processes for improved inventory management and enhanced customer service delivery. International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM) Volume: 08 Issue: 01 | January - 2024 SJIF Rating: 8.176 ISSN: 2582-3930 © 2024, IJSREM | www.ijsrem.com DOI: 10.55041/IJSREM28288 | Page 2 Keywords:Material and Supply Chain Management (MSCM),Service organizations,Inventory optimization,Customer service,Just-in-time inventory,Demand forecasting,Supplier relationship management

Supply chain integration practices and its impact on financial and operational performance of the Tunisian industrial sector

Supply chain integration is a key factor in improving business performance. Despite this growing interest, little research has highlighted this issue that will determine the survival of many companies. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between the supply chain integration practices (SCMP) and the financial and operational performance of Tunisian manufacturing companies. To achieve this, a questionnaire was used as a research tool for data collection. Multiple regression analysis using SPSS26 software was used to answer study questions and examine study hypotheses. According to research, SCMP includes customer relationship management (CRM), supplier relationship management (SRM), buyer-supplier collaboration (BSC), joint knowledge creation (JCK), level of information sharing (IS), goal congruence (GC) , risk management (RM), internet usage (IU), quality management (QM) , except information quality (IQ), collaborative planning, forecasting and replenishment practices (CPFR), and just-in-time (JIT), are all significantly related to the financial and operational performance of the companies surveyed. Some recommendations are proposed to help managers better manage knowledge throughout the supply chain.

Vertical Coopetition: Effect of Supplier Relationship Management Strategies on Supplier Involvement in New Product Development

In the complex “vertical coopetition” relationship, this article aims to explore how manufacturers develop supplier relationship management (SRM) strategies to motivate supplier involvement in their new product development (NPD) activities. It investigates the influence of two competitive and cooperative SRM strategies (introducing competition for suppliers and holding supplier shares) on coinnovation performance which is the result of supplier involvement measured in a time-lagged manner. This article used the panel data on the Japanese automobile industry from 1994 to 2016 with fixed-effect negative binomial regression analysis. The results shed light on the inverted U-shaped effect of introducing competition for suppliers and the positive effect of holding supplier shares on coinnovation performance. They also indicate that holding supplier shares can weaken the curved role of introducing competition in coinnovation, but the inverted U-shape persists. Holding a high proportion of a supplier's shares and simultaneously introducing moderate competition for the supplier would be a relatively better strategy for increasing supplier involvement in NPD and coinnovation. The findings provide insights into strategic sourcing and contribute to the interfirm coopetition literature by focusing on vertical buyer-SRM strategies and their roles in supplier involvement in NPD.

Dynamics in the evolution of circular sourcing strategies: Evidence from German frontrunners sourcing for recycled plastics

Firms’ circular sourcing strategies are essential for the transition to a circular economy as they enhance circularity both within individual firms and across industries. A key barrier to the implementation of such strategies is that many approaches still offer a static perspective on resource use without addressing its evolutionary characteristics and dynamic interdependencies over time. Based on the assumption that companies’ strategic procurement decisions on recyclate markets show temporal patterns depending on the development of these markets (“marketness”), the dynamics in the complex cause-and-effect structures of circular procurement strategies are analysed longitudinally with the help of causal loop diagrams. Employing a comparative case-study design with the example of German frontrunners sourcing recycled plastics, the paper addresses three recyclate markets at various stages of development, ranging from the emerging market of recovered plastic litter, through the developing market of plastic recyclate from mixed post-consumer packaging waste, towards the well-established market of recycled deposit bottles. The results reveal ideal-typical longitudinal patterns of company leaders’ strong commitment to sustainability, facilitated by flexible organisational structures, significant investment in product development, sound supplier relationship management and brand building to sway consumer preferences towards circular products, indicating that market-shaping activities are key in long-term shifts towards circular market transitions. By understanding the dynamics of circular sourcing and their relationship with the development stage of recyclate markets, the study sheds light on potential governance measures to scale-up plastic recyclate markets for a circular plastics economy. It concludes that overall dynamics point to a steady development of firms’ circular sourcing strategies and a rapid growth in recyclate application, involving complex challenges of resource circularity that call for carefully targeted regulatory policies.

Supplier relationship management and its impacts on purchasing performance in aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul in Thailand

Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) has been recognized to play an important role in improving purchasing performance. However, there is no evidence yet to prove this application in the aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) industry in Thailand. This paper studied SRM which are arm’s-length SRM and cooperative SRM practices, and their impacts on purchasing performance in the aircraft MRO industry of Thailand by using Delphi Technique. Data are collected from in-depth interviews, and by means of a questionnaire. Sample group of this research are 20 specialists who involved with purchasing processes in aircraft MRO. The results show that cooperative SRM improves purchasing performance in all aspects, while arm’s-length SRM only improves purchasing performance in reducing sales price.

Procurement with ERP

There are many advantages for the company when an ERP system is implemented in the procurement process. A brief summary of the main benefits and features of adopting ERP procurement is provided by procurement. In today's competitive corporate environment, efficient procurement is essential. ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) solutions provide a way to optimize resource use, increase visibility, and streamline the procurement process. It examines the various ERP system components that have a direct impact on the procurement. These components, including Inventory Control, Financial Integration, Supplier Relationship Management, and Purchase Order Management, collaborate to automate and improve the procurement process. The important considerations for implementing ERP in procurement the crucial factors to consider while deploying ERP in procurement. It highlights the importance of selecting the best ERP vendor, designing the system in accordance with organizational goals, and effectively educating people. Data migration, change management, and continuing system maintenance are mentioned as important components of a successful ERP adoption. It cites technological developments like blockchain, machine learning, and artificial intelligence that could further change the procurement process. Describe ERP and the role it plays in the procurement process. It draws attention to typical problems faced by procurement departments, including disconnected systems and manual processes. The overview highlights the demand for an integrated ERP strategy to deal with these issues. It examines the various ERP system that have a direct impact on procurement. These modules, including Inventory, Supplier Relationship Management, and Purchase Order Management.

Implementation of strategic alliance in developing supplier relationships for sustainable procurement

The relationship between economic development and environmental pollution has become a crucial global concern. In the last three decades, the manufacturing sector has witnessed a growing need for preserving resources, adopting renewable energy sources, enhancing water infrastructure, and minimizing the release of greenhouse gases due to its escalating environment impact. The ability of decision-makers to analyse complicated cause and effect linkages between criteria and take appropriate actions based on such analysis is critical to decision-making efficiency. This research integrates DEMATEL and ANP methods that support decision-making by evaluating 3 factors and 15 selected subfactors. First, the DEMATEL method is used to determine the interrelationships between the predetermined main criteria. The ANP methodology is then used to determine the local weights of the components and subfactors based on the cause-and-effect correlations derived via the DEMATEL method. The local weights are input into the ANP matrix, and the calculation is run to determine a supplier relationship management strategy. The ANP calculation resulted in the alliance strategy as the priority strategy. This study contributes to finding key factors in evaluating sustainable supplier criteria for supply chain sustainability in the leather products industry, including cost, quality, financial capability, labour practices, green competence, and green image. Strategy implementation is provided based on the selected strategy concept.