Research Paper
Undergraduate
Supply Chain Management in the FMCG Sector
This paper is about supply chain management. The latest trends in industry can be valued as collaboration and a treatment of suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and customers as strategic partners. Technology and multi-channel approach for distribution are regarded as enablers of cost reduction and increased presence. However the industry requires a diligent approach to establish credibility and a customer's centric supply chain can assist organizations in gaining market share.
Research Paper
Undergraduate
Hershey's sweet mission and corporate social responsibility
In the case of the Hershey Company, which has been built into the largest producer of quality chocolate in North America, a clearly defined mission statement defines crucial relationships with key stakeholders, including consumers, investors, suppliers, and employees. Manager Mary Parsons has applied the concept of organizational alignment to guide the Hershey Company's mutually beneficial interaction with its thousands of employees worldwide, with "aligned" employees working collaboratively to achieve the company's collective mission by adhering closely to four shared values. The priority for Parsons and her peers on the managerial board of the Hershey Company is to achieve genuine alignment between those longtime employees who possess valuable experience and knowledge, and incoming employees who add vibrancy and innovation while still lacking the foundational skills of their predecessors.
Supplier behaviour, trust, and opportunism in procurement management
The objective of this study is to examine procurement and supplier management and the potential behavior and trust of suppliers and to discuss this in light of current academic debates and provide practical illustrations to support the answer. The work of Chen, Paulraj and Lado (2004) entitled "Strategic Purchasing, Supply Management and Firm Performance" states of purchasing that it has "increasingly assumed a pivotal strategic role in supply-chain management." (p.505) Demonstrated in this study is hat clear lines of communication, safeguards to prevent fraud and corruption, and high levels of trust among suppliers and buyers are all critical elements in strategic supply chain procurement practices. When there is a high level of trust among suppliers and purchasers, the supply chain is more likely to be optimized and productivity and profitability is likely to be much higher. As noted in this study trust has as its outcome the understanding o the part of the firm that the other party to the transaction will perform actions that result in positive benefits to the firm and that no actions will be taken that will result in negative outcomes.