Current purchasing practices and JIT: some of the effects on inbound logistics

Abstract

The volume of cargo shipped just‐in‐time (JIT) in the USA has been increasing over the last decade. At the same time, purchasing has been undergoing transformations. Examines empirically the effects of both these trends on the purchasing function, and consequently on inbound logistics, and reports on them in four sections: criteria for supplier selection, changes in purchasing practices, purchasing′s interaction levels with other functional areas and with vendors, and strategic partnerships regarding suppliers. Also examines the impacts on purchasing and inbound logistics in terms of performance. The findings indicate that purchasing is experiencing modifications and that JIT acts as a positive influence. The changes taking place are improving competitive position without an increase in logistics expense.

Use of supplier-customer relationships by SMEs to enter foreign markets

“…Empirical evidence for these theoretical arguments is difficult to find mainly because so little research is available on the effects of supplier-customer relationships on suppliers (Vonderembse, Mark, Tracey, Tan, & Bardi, 1995;Wafa, Yasin, & Swinehart, 1996). Anecdotal evidence suggests that decision-makers in some supplier firms cherish supplier-customer relationships and, as a consequence, hold their counterparts in customer firms in high regard.…”

JIT purchasing and performance: an exploratory analysis of buyer and supplier perspectives

“…As outlined above, a JIT purchasing strategy is aimed at a synchronized and timely product flow from supplier to buyer. The basic elements of a JIT purchasing strategy would include the following (see, for example, Ansari and Modarress, 1990;Celley et al, 1986;Chapman and Carter, 1990;Freeland, 1991;Gilbert et al, 1994;Hahn et al, 1983;Manoochehri, 1984;Mehra and Inman, 1992;Oliver, 1990;Sakakibara et al, 1993;Schonberger and Ansari, 1984;Tracey et al, 1995;Vonderembse et al, 1995;Waters-Fuller, 1995):…”

International procurement practices of Indian firms

“…Among other studies that have attempted to understand and capture the dynamic nature of the international environment as it relates to procurement were the studies by Nicholas andTaylor (1995), McMullan (1996), and Vonderembse et al (1995). Nicholas and Taylor examined the impact of free trade agreements on sourcing decisions in North America and Europe.…”