Supply Industry Research Articles

What Makes a Youth Study Travel Product Popular in China? An Enquiry from the Perspective of Industry Suppliers

ABSTRACT This study aims to explore the features of an attractive and popular youth study travel product in China by using an interpretive qualitative approach. Through purposive and snowball sampling, 17 thematic interviews were conducted with industry suppliers of different levels and locations in China. Thematic analysis indicates that an ideal youth study travel product in China should have features including engaging learning content, attractive learning mode, growth opportunities, professional study travel facilitators, trustworthy study travel providers, and sound travel arrangements, in addition to the product’s alignment with schools’ requirements. The study is one of the first to examine what constitutes popular youth study travel products from the industry practitioners’ perspective. Results provide important implications to study travel providers on designing and marketing their products in future.

Viable industrial supplier performance evaluation using fuzzy inference system: a case of the automotive industry

Purpose As the global focus on supply chain management has shifted toward the importance of digitalization, resilience and sustainability to ensure viability, this paradigm merits special consideration in the industrial supplier selection process in a VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous) world. Additionally, the increasing geopolitical challenges further complicate the industrial supplier selection process, necessitating robust decision-making frameworks. Thus, this paper aims to present a decision-making system using a fuzzy inference system (FIS) for industrial supplier evaluation and selection, considering a new criterion: viability. Design/methodology/approach Fuzzy set theory, particularly a FIS, is used to address the subjectivity of decision-makers’ preferences. The suggested method’s validity is evaluated using a real automotive case study for industrial supplier selection situations. Findings Seventeen key criteria for viable industrial supplier selection were identified and used to evaluate and select the case study firm’s industrial supplier. The chosen supplier (B) demonstrated superior resilience, sustainability and digitalization capabilities, making it preferable to others. Specifically, supplier (B) exhibited exceptional adaptability to disruptions, a strong commitment to sustainable practices and advanced digital integration that enhances operational efficiency. Practical implications This study provides valuable insights for researchers and professionals by proposing a comprehensive industrial supplier selection system. Integrating diverse criteria is essential for viable performance in supply chains that enhances robustness and adaptability, supporting more strategic decision-making in supplier evaluation amid global and network-related challenges. Originality/value This novel paper introduces a new criterion, i.e. viability, in the industrial supplier selection process in the VUCA environment. In addition, it proposes a decision-making system for viable supplier performance evaluation. Furthermore, it validates the proposed FIS in an automotive case study.

Koch Industries, Inc. and Koch Supply & Trading, LP v Canada: Emissions Allowances as ‘Investment’?

<i>Koch Industries, Inc. and Koch Supply &amp; Trading, LP v Canada:</i> Emissions Allowances as ‘Investment’?

Advances in the use of active yeast in raising chickens

The broiler industry supplies quality protein, which is in constant development. It seeks productive strategies that improve production, health, growth, and survival and reduce the poultry industry's diseases, stress, and long-term environmental impact. Broiler chickens are exposed to numerous microorganisms that alter production, and this is an opportunity for yeasts to promote the growth of organisms, stimulate the immune system, improve health, promote changes in intestinal structure, and inhibit pathogens. This review summarizes the current knowledge and effect of active yeast species on raising chickens, nutrition, immunity, digestibility, changes in intestinal structure, and pathogens on those organisms. Due to their nutritional value, active yeasts are used as natural and alternative ingredients in broiler chickens. They are a source of b-glucans, chitin, nucleic acids, mannan-oligosaccharides, b-carotene, and vitamins. Enzymes they produce improve intestinal maturity and digestion. The immune and antioxidant properties of yeasts play an essential role as probiotics and immunostimulants to enhance the resistance of broilers against common viral and bacterial diseases. Bioactive products generated by active yeasts can improve intestinal microbiota and positively alter the immune response, phagocytosis, encapsulation, etc. Different active yeast species and strains have been used and have generated exciting results. They are popular as beneficial candidates for nutrition by maintaining broiler chickens’ health's and well-being conditions. Future studies must understand the functioning and effect of species and strains on broiler chickens in their different processes, the use of new research tools (proteomics, radioisotopes, real-time molecular biology, etc.) can facilitate these studies.

Uncertainty-Based Industrial Water Supply and Demand Balance Pattern Recognition: A Case Study in the Yellow River Basin of Gansu Province, China

The balance between water supply and demand is essential for industrial growth, affecting economic, social, and environmental sustainability. Our research employs a Gaussian process regression for demand prediction. Additionally, it takes into account water limits and policy thresholds when determining the supply, thereby defining a range of uncertainty for both the industrial demand and the supply. A pattern recognition method matches this trade-off range, identifying three patterns to support water management. The study focuses on the analysis of industrial water supply and demand dynamics under uncertain conditions in nine cities (Baiyin, Dingxi, Gannan, Lanzhou, Linxia, Pingliang, Qingyang, Tianshui, and Wuwei) in Gansu Province of China’s Yellow River Basin in 2030. The results of the study show that industrial water use in Baiyin, Linxia, Dingxi, and Tianshui cities falls into Pattern I, providing water resources to support industrial development. Industrial water use in Wuwei, Pingliang, Qingyang, and Gannan cities represents Pattern II, which maintains a balance between supply and demand while allowing flexibility in water demand. Finally, the industrial water use in Lanzhou city is characterized by Pattern III, which requires optimization through structural, technological, and management improvements to mitigate the negative impacts of water scarcity on the sustainable development of the economy and society. The results of the research can be used as a reference for policy making in water resources planning and management in the basin.

Sustainable Industrial Energy Supply Systems with Integrated Renewable Energy, CCUS, and Energy Storage: A Comprehensive Evaluation

Sustainable Industrial Energy Supply Systems with Integrated Renewable Energy, CCUS, and Energy Storage: A Comprehensive Evaluation

The Impact of Digital Technology, Automation, and Data Integration on Supply Chain Performance: Exploring the Moderating Role of Digital Transformation

Background: This study investigates digital transformation as a moderating variable in determining the effect of digital technologies, automation, and data integration of upstream and downstream providers on supply chain performance. By filling the existing research gap, the study reveals that more research regarding how digital transformation interventions impact the effectiveness of these technologies for industrial supply chains must be understood. Methods: A structured survey was applied to 181 supply chain managers in manufacturing firms scattered across Jordan. Results: The findings using SmartPLS for statistical analysis indicated that automation has the strongest positive effect on supply chain performance, followed by data integration. But digital technology did not have a significant direct effect, unless it was accompanied by broader digital transformation initiatives. Conclusions: Theoretically, this study reinforces digital transformation theory as a vital framework, whereas in practice, it invokes the strategic deployment of automation and integrated data application designs to underpin supply chain efficiency and competitiveness. Finally, this study offers practical guidance for practitioners who seek to employ the use of digital transformation in the current dynamic business environment.

Optimal scheduling strategy for electric vehicle charging and discharging in different types of buildings based on vehicle-to-building

The application of vehicle-to-building (V2B) technology to integrate photovoltaic charging stations (PVCS) with smart building microgrids has gradually emerged as a new low-carbon operation model in the electric vehicle (EV) energy supply industry. The disordered integration of a large number of EVs into the power grid has caused numerous safety issues for building microgrids. Considering that buildings suitable for the construction of PVCS are primarily concentrated in residential, office, and commercial areas, this study proposes an optimized scheduling strategy for the charging and discharging of electric vehicles that considers different types of buildings. First, a PV-building-EV integrated system based on V2B is established. Probability distribution models of EV travel characteristics for different regions are obtained through actual data fitting, and unordered charging load curves for each region are derived by incorporating the Monte Carlo sampling method. On this basis, considering the interest of the building microgrids, PVCS operators, and EV users, a multi-objective optimization scheduling model for orderly EV charging and discharging based on V2B is established. Finally, the improved Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II validates the model's effectiveness.

Research on the Optimization Mechanism of Agricultural Industry Supply Chain under the Scenario of Cross-border Export of Agricultural Products

Research on the Optimization Mechanism of Agricultural Industry Supply Chain under the Scenario of Cross-border Export of Agricultural Products

Assessing climate vulnerability in China's industrial supply chains: A multi-region network analysis approach

Assessing climate vulnerability in China's industrial supply chains: A multi-region network analysis approach

Average Propagation Length Analysis for the Construction Industry and Industrial Supply Chains

This study employs Average Propagation Length (APL) analysis to investigate the structural linkages within regional industrial supply chains in the United Kingdom and its devolved nations, Scotland and Northern Ireland, focusing on the construction industry. APL analysis is a pivotal method in Industrial Engineering, offering quantitative insights into the strength, complexity, and extent of cross-industry interconnections. This approach provides a robust framework for understanding manufacturing systems and the intricate relationships that drive sectoral interactions in production chains. Findings reveal that in the UK, the construction industry maintains significant connections with electricity transmission and distribution, gas distribution, and steam and air conditioning distribution. These connections highlight the construction sector’s role as a critical node in the broader industrial network. Geographical distinctions in supply chain dynamics were observed: while inter-industry linkages span two steps in the UK overall, they reduce to a single step in Northern Ireland and Scotland due to their simpler economic structures. The complexity of the UK’s economy facilitates diverse pathways between sectors, resulting in the emergence of intermediate steps during inter-industry transitions. The study emphasizes that industrial linkages across the UK are robust and interconnected, with the service sector forming the core of the industrial supply chain. By driving outward expansion and providing key inputs to industries such as construction and utilities, the service sector underscores the critical role of cross-sectoral integration in enhancing supply chain efficiency and resilience. These findings contribute to the field of Industrial Engineering by providing a comprehensive understanding of regional supply chain dynamics, offering insights into optimizing industrial frameworks and fostering sustainable economic development.

A Comparative Analysis on Recruitment and Selection Process at Chennai Shoes and Industrial Supplies LLP, T Nagar Chennai

This study investigates the recruitment and selection practices at Chennai Shoes and Industrial Supplies LLP, located in T. Nagar, Chennai, with a focus on evaluating the effectiveness of their current strategies and identifying areas for improvement. The research combines both qualitative and quantitative methods to assess the organization's recruitment sources, selection techniques, and overall efficiency. A t-test is employed to compare the effectiveness of two key recruitment strategies: Traditional interviews and Online recruitment platforms. The objective is to determine whether there is a significant difference in employee satisfaction between candidates hired through these two methods. The results of the t-test reveal that there is no significant difference (p-value &gt; 0.05) in employee satisfaction between the two recruitment methods, suggesting that both approaches yield similar levels of candidate satisfaction. The findings also highlight key areas for improvement, including the integration of technology in recruitment processes, the need for standardized interview techniques, and the importance of enhancing employee retention strategies. The study concludes by offering actionable recommendations, such as adopting an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) and improving employee development programs, to optimize recruitment, selection, and retention processes, thereby enhancing the company's competitive advantage. Keywords: Recruitment and Selection, T-test, Employee Satisfaction, Traditional Interviews, Online Recruitment Platforms, Chennai Shoes and Industrial Supplies LLP.

The role of 4IR technologies and organizational culture in enhancing manufacturing supply chain performance

This study seeks to create a model for the management of the steel production supply chain in South Africa amid the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), tackling persistent interruptions and delays within the supply chain despite current models. A mixed methodology was utilised in the model's development. The qualitative component entailed a Delphi research corroborated by literature to ascertain pertinent hypotheses, whereas the quantitative component validated the model through structural equation modelling (SEM) utilising SmartPLS software. The research delineated a seven-construct framework comprising cooperation, integration, communication, supply chain structure, Fourth Industrial Revolution technology, organisational culture, and trust. The amalgamation of these designs proved enough for improving the efficacy of the steel production supply chain. The research revealed that the use of Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies and the cultivation of a conducive organisational culture are essential for effective supply chain management in the steel manufacturing industry. The research presents a detailed model that facilitates the planning and organisation of steel industry supply networks in South Africa. This approach underscores the necessity of a cooperative organisational culture, client contentment, and the incorporation of Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies. Steel industry stakeholders are urged to implement adaptable supply chain frameworks (lean, agile, leagile) based on project goals. This study enhances theoretical frameworks by highlighting essential features that have not been previously incorporated into supply chain management models for the steel sector, including the integration of Fourth Industrial Revolution technology and organisational culture. It provides actionable insights for stakeholders in steel manufacture, enhancing supply chain performance via the proposed paradigm. The research methodology improves comprehension of supply chain management within the framework of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).

Hydrogeological conditions of the Megionsky oil field

The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive description of the underground hydrosphere of the Megionsky oil field. The field is located within the well-studied West Siberian megabasin. According to V. M. Matushevich's classification (1986), the stratigraphy of the Megionsky field is divided into three overlapping hydrogeological basins (Cenozoic, Mesozoic, and Paleozoic). The results of the analysis of the variation in water mineralization, formation pressures, and geothermal gradients with depth have justified the classification of the Megion oil field as a water-bearing system of the elision-type geodynamic origin. The aquifers and water-bearing complexes in the study area extensively utilized for drinking, domestic, and industrial water supply. Additionally, the Aptian-Albian-Cenomanian hydrogeological complex of the Mesozoic basin is also targeted for the disposal of excess associated water. These factors indicate a significant anthropogenic impact on hydrogeological systems. Understanding the hydrogeological features of the underground hydrosphere provides a foundation for designing measures to protect fresh and mineralized groundwater from contamination and depletion.

Changes in Female Labor Supply, Fertility, and Employment Trends

Along with the changes of the times, there are different development trends in demographics, labor supply, and employment opportunities in various industries. The serious aging of the population, the lack of labor in the market, and the decline of the fertility rate have been social topics with serious impact. The female employment rate is also deeply related to it. However, the participation of women in various industries is closely related to their biological and social characteristics, which leads to different trends in the future development of each sector. Gender differences are unavoidable in the social selection process for employment, where family structure, aging population, socio-demographic structure, and salary distribution are all issues that cannot be ignored. On the other hand, the decline of the fertility rate and the female employment rate are closely related, and this relationship will have a profound impact on labor productivity, consumption, industry, and the demographic structure of society.

Research on Operational Model Optimization of X Pharmaceutical Group Under Digital Transformation

With the rapid development of digital technology, digital transformation in the pharmaceutical industry has become key to enhancing enterprise competitiveness. This paper takes X Pharmaceutical Group as a case study to analyze their operational model optimization practices during digital transformation. The research finds that X Pharmaceutical Group has significantly improved operational efficiency and market responsiveness through measures such as building a smart supply chain platform, advancing digital marketing transformation, and establishing a data-driven decision-making system. However, they also face challenges including data security risks, insufficient talent reserves, and difficulties in integrating traditional business models with digitalization. To address these issues, this paper proposes recommendations including improving digital infrastructure construction, strengthening digital talent development, and optimizing organizational structure, providing practical reference for pharmaceutical enterprises' digital transformation. The results show that digital transformation can not only improve enterprise operational efficiency but also promote collaborative development of pharmaceutical industry supply chains, holding significant importance for promoting high-quality development in the pharmaceutical industry.

An Approach to Predicting Energy Demand Within Automobile Production Using the Temporal Fusion Transformer Model

The increasing share of renewable energies within energy systems leads to an increase in complexity. The growing complexity is due to the diversity of technologies, ongoing technological innovations, and fluctuating electricity production. To continue to ensure a secure, economical, and needs-based energy supply, additional information is needed to efficiently control these systems. This impacts public and industrial supply systems, such as vehicle factories. This paper examines the influencing factors and the applicability of the Temporal Fusion Transformer (TFT) model for the weekly energy demand forecast at an automobile production site. Seven different TFT models were trained for the weekly forecast of energy demand. Six models predicted the energy demand for electricity, heat, and natural gas. Three models used a rolling day-ahead forecast, and three models predicted the entire week in one step. In the seventh model, the rolling day-ahead forecast was used again, with the three target values being predicted in the same model. The analysis of the models shows that the rolling day-ahead forecasting method with a MAPE of 13% already delivers good results in predicting the electrical energy demand. The prediction accuracy achieved is sufficient to use the model outcomes as a basis for weekly operational planning and energy demand reporting. However, further improvements are still required for use in automated control of the energy system to reduce energy procurement costs. The models for forecasting heat and natural gas demands still show too high deviations, with a MAPE of 62% for heat demand and a MAPE of 39% for natural gas demand. To accurately predict these demands, further factors must be identified to explain the demand.

Synergistic Development Pathways: An Exploratory Study on the Urban–Rural Mutual Assistance Model and Low-Carbon Transformation of Henan’s Power Supply Industry Towards Dual-Carbon Goals

In the midst of the push for dual-carbon goals, urban centers are faced with the imperative of reducing emissions and conserving energy, while rural regions are harnessing their abundant new energy resources to promote balanced urban–rural development. Photovoltaic (PV) power generation, known for its cleanliness, safety, and emission-free nature, is playing a crucial role in the evolution of Henan Province’s power supply industry. This paper delves into the current state of Henan’s power supply infrastructure, the trajectory of its low-carbon development, and the policies that shape the PV sector. It also examines the establishment of an urban–rural mutual aid model through the lens of alternative energy technologies. By utilizing a combination of case studies and systematic theoretical research, this paper uncovers the economic potential that remains untapped of new energy sources in rural areas and presents strategies for synergistic development in alignment with dual-carbon goals within the power supply industry. The research underscores the significance of an urban–rural mutual assistance model in achieving carbon neutrality, addressing urban–rural development gaps, fostering shared prosperity, and contributing Chinese insights to global climate governance frameworks.

Addressing Plastic Pollution: Research on Sustainable Practices and Strategies in the Consumer Goods Industry Supply Chain

Research Background: The consumer goods industry faces a significant sustainability challenge due to the environmental and social impacts of plastic pollution, particularly from single-use plastics. This essay addresses the current situation and the difficulty in implementing sustainability commitments within the industry. Research Objectives: The essay aims to propose solutions for sustainable supply chain management that balance economic, social, and environmental concerns, and to extend these solutions to other industries. Research Methods: The essay identifies the main sustainability issues, analyzes the problems, and proposes solutions based on the sustainable supply chain concept. Data from literature and expert opinions are synthesized to support the arguments. Conclusion: The essay establishes that the use of innovative packaging design, material optimization, and improved recycling systems are crucial for mitigating plastic pollution. It also emphasizes the importance of stakeholder collaboration and government intervention. The proposed solutions are not only applicable to the consumer goods industry but can be generalized to other sectors, highlighting the need for a unified approach to achieve sustainable development.

History and current state of food falsification in Russia

Food falsification has been recognized in Russia as a social problem since the mid 17th century. Historical documents testify to government measures aimed at combating fraud in the food supply industry. The foundation of the first hygienic laboratories made it possible to establish the scale of this phenomenon, collect evidence based on the results of laboratory studies, and develop regulatory documents and production standards that determine the quality and safety of food products for human health. The consequences of manufacturing, selling and consuming counterfeit food products are associated with the risk of losing health, reducing life expectancy, increasing mortality from alimentary diseases and food poisoning. For centuries, there has been an intensified fight against counterfeit products, but the problem is still relevant today. Violations in the food circulation sphere have led to the adoption of legislative and regulatory acts in recent years aimed at improving state policy measures in this area.