Research Report Current Supply Chain Challenges In The Retail Industry

Brief reportCurrent supply chain challenges in the retail industryNameTutor’s Name19/08/2015Current supply chain challenges in the retail industryIntroductionRecent years have brought about the phenomenon rapid expansion in retailing and development of multi-channel retailing. This coupled by customer expectations have given rise to supply chain challenges. Supply chain managers have had to contend with challenges of getting goods from the source to the customers as and when needed. Supply chain management has acquired strategic importance and must move from a narrow focus on cost containment to strategies designed to acquire or enhance competitive advantage by utilising emerging opportunities and providing a seamless customer experience across retail channels. Supply chain disruptions can cause heavy losses to retailer including loss of customers. This calls for optimal transportation flows, inventory turnover management and fulfilment capabilities that must leverage on technology. The supply chain is constantly evolving in different environments and thus creates a constant supply of new challenges with every passing day. The challenges require that supply chain managers must constantly realign the supply chain to meet corporate objectives.Literature reviewSupply chain managers have turned to international manufacturing sources