The Impact of Modular Assembly on Supply Chain Efficiency

Improving the efficiency in the links in the supply chains of agri-food products is relevant in terms of the assessment methodology and practical aspects for ensuring and supporting sustainable supply chains of products not only in individual channels of product movement but also in the end-to-end supply chain of products, i.e., from the field to the end consumer. However, it is still unclear which supply chain opportunities in commodity distribution channels are more effective for creating end-to-end sustainable supply chains for agri-food products. The purpose of the study is to develop a methodology for assessing the impact of agri-food supply channels on the efficiency and link in supply chains, taking into account the factors affecting them and developing recommendations for their improvement. Quantitative methods based on correlation and regression analysis using the EViews program on the basis of Kazakh statistical data for 2008–2022 were used. A methodology is proposed for assessing the effectiveness of the functioning and links in commodity movement in the supply chains of agricultural products at the macroeconomic level based on the consideration and use of important factors affecting the efficiency and links: production and sales volumes, total costs, and profitability for each supply channel: “production–processing–industrial production–trade”. The relationship between the efficiency and the links in supply chains and also the key factors that affect them have been established. The results showed that the increase in the efficiency in supply channels in the commodity distribution system leads to a decrease in the coefficient of the link in commodity movement and inventory availability. To reduce the link ratio in the supply chains of agri-food products, it is necessary to increase the efficiency in supply chains in each supply chain link and reduce the share of retail trade in the gross turnover. Recommendations are proposed to improve supply chain efficiency and reduce links to support and create end-to-end sustainable supply chains of agri-food products. The study makes an essential contribution to providing empirical evidence of the relationship between the effectiveness of agri-food supply channels and the link in the supply chain. Since few works describe the relationship between the links of product distribution and the efficiency in supply chains in the literature, in this work, it was possible to propose a methodology and identify factors and gaps in research to identify potential areas for future research.

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to identify the factors and most significant reasons leading to supply chain inefficiency with respect to high cost, high lead time and poor quality at wholesale stage of mango supply chain in India, and also to find out the measures which may be taken to improve supply chain efficiency. Design/methodology/approach The paper opted for an exploratory study using the quantitative and qualitative method of research. The study was conducted at Asia’s largest and world’s second largest fruits and vegetable wholesale market (Mandi) in Azadpur, Delhi. Factors have been identified using factor analysis and the measures to improve supply chain efficiency in fruits sector have been found out through semi-structured interviews with agri- and food-supply chain experts. Findings Based on the factor analysis, three factors were identified for high cost, namely, operational charges, labour and resources; four factors were identified for high lead time, namely, operational issues, labour, resources and infrastructure; and four factors were identified for poor quality, namely, operational issues, infrastructure, resources and poor ambience. It was also found that operational factor is the most significant factor leading to supply chain inefficiency. The study also highlighted the measures for improving supply chain efficiency based on the outcome of the interviews. Research limitations/implications This study is limited to the wholesale stage of fruit supply chain with the focus on Azadpur Mandi, Delhi, India, with specific reference to mango. Also, the measures have been identified for only the most significant reasons under each factor leading to supply chain inefficiency with respect to cost, time and quality. Originality/value There is a dearth of literature on improving the supply chain efficiency pertaining to the wholesale stage of fruits and vegetable sector in India. This paper tries to fulfil the gap and contributed to the literature on agriculture supply chain, which may be helpful for the researchers as well as the practitioners to improve food supply chain pertaining to developing countries.

Research aims: This research aims to determine the influence of innovation leadership on supply chain efficiency mediated by process improvement.Design/Methodology/Approach: The objects of this research were micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) players in the creative economy sector in the Yogyakarta Special Region, Indonesia. Measurements of the outer model, inner model, and hypothesis testing (directly and indirectly) were carried out on the data sample of MSME actors in the creative economy sector in Yogyakarta Special Region utilizing the SmartPLS statistical tool. The sampling employed purposive sampling with a total sample size of 267 creative economy MSMEs.Research Findings: The results uncovered that innovation leadership positively affected supply chain efficiency, implying that innovation leadership could significantly improve supply chain efficiency. Innovation leadership also positively influences process improvement, showing that if the innovation leadership is good, process improvement will increase significantly. In addition, process improvement positively impacted supply chain efficiency, indicating that process improvement could significantly improve supply chain efficiency. Lastly, process improvement could mediate the effect of innovation leadership on supply chain efficiency significantly, denoting that process improvement has a highly important role in improving supply chain efficiency. Theoretical Contribution/Originality: This study indicates that innovative leaders are highly important in improving their supply chain efficiency, and process improvement as a mediating variable, a novelty in this study, has a very significant role for innovative leaders in improving supply chain efficiency.Practitioners/Policy Implications: Creative economy MSMEs must become innovative leaders in their businesses to increase efficiency in the supply chain. In addition, MSMEs need to continuously improve their business processes, especially in the supply chain.Research Limitations/Implications: The independent variable in this research was only one, i.e., innovation leadership, so it is less comprehensive. To be more comprehensive, other independent variables, such as intellectual capital or moderating variables of government policies, can be added.

Cross-border e-commerce (CBEC) is becoming critical for a strong supply chain. Using data from Chinese listed firms and a difference-in-difference (DID) model, this paper examines the impact of CBEC development on supply chain efficiency from the perspective of enterprise inventory. CBEC significantly reduces enterprises’ non-finished goods inventory and improves supply chain efficiency. The mechanism tests reveal three ways in which CBEC optimizes enterprises’ inventory and enhances supply chain efficiency: improving the performance of upstream-facing sourcing, increasing the efficiency of enterprises’ product transformation, and optimizing downstream-facing demand coordination. The heterogeneous results suggest that CBEC has a greater impact on the supply chain efficiency of firms with high operational volatility and capital intensity and low digitization levels. Further, the effect of CBEC on the reduction of non-finished goods inventory is more significant in regions with weak infrastructure development and location endowment. This study provides empirical evidence for the emerging development topic of new international trade patterns empowering industrial supply chains.

With the deepening of globalization and technological innovation, the concept of new quality productivity has gradually come onto the agenda, profoundly affecting the efficiency improvement of logistics supply chains. This study systematically analyzes the application and strategies of emerging technologies such as information technology, artificial intelligence, and big data analysis in enhancing the efficiency of logistics supply chains from the perspective of new quality productivity development. By constructing a Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) model and a multi-indicator comprehensive evaluation method, this paper quantitatively assesses the role of new quality productivity in improving supply chain efficiency and verifies the effectiveness of related strategies through simulation optimization. The research results show that the Internet of Things (IoT) and big data analysis play a key role in supply chain information sharing, inventory management, and demand forecasting, while artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies significantly improve supply chain responsiveness by optimizing the decision-making process. In addition, this paper explores the potential of blockchain technology in ensuring supply chain transparency and security and proposes precise improvement plans for the supply chain agglomeration effects in different regions. This study provides insights for formulating improvement strategies and guiding supply chain performance management and offers decision-making references for policymakers. Future research can further explore new supply chain management models under competition and cooperation, assess the impact of new economic forms on the stability of supply chain systems, and predict the long-term trends of global supply chains in the context of changes in the global political and economic landscape.

In today’s dynamic business environment, delays and inefficiencies which are inherent across supply chains have continued to weaken the responsiveness of organizations and tend to reduce customer satisfaction. Many of these challenges stem from fragmented workflows, undocumented procedures, and a lack of coordination between departments, factors that often result in longer lead times, missed deliveries, and higher operational costs. One promising solution is process mapping, a strategic tool that enables managers to visualize workflows, detect bottlenecks, and optimize operations. Despite its growing adoption, there is limited empirical evidence on its direct effect on time efficiency, especially within the Nigerian context. This study explores how process mapping influences time efficiency in supply chain management (SCM), with a focus on Nigerian firms operating in the manufacturing, retail, and logistics sectors. A quantitative correlational design was employed, and data were collected from 120 SCM professionals through structured questionnaires. The responses were analyzed using SPSS Version 26, applying descriptive statistics, independent samples t-tests, and multiple linear regression. Results show a significant positive relationship between process mapping and time efficiency (R² = 0.67, p < 0.001). Among the tools evaluated, flowcharts and swim lane diagrams proved most effective in reducing lead time and cycle time. Additionally, employee training and the use of digital mapping platforms such as Lucidchart and Bizagi emerged as strong predictors of improved performance. Organizations that consistently applied these practices reported quicker deliveries, better internal coordination, and fewer operational delays. These findings offer valuable insights for supply chain managers and policymakers seeking to improve operational agility in resource-constrained environments. The study emphasizes the need to institutionalize process mapping as a routine practice within supply chains to achieve sustainable, measurable improvements in time-based performance.

The research focuses on the optimization of closed-loop supply chain (CLSC) network design in intelligent manufacturing systems, to achieve sustainable development goals by optimizing resource utilization, and reducing environmental impact and operating costs. The research focuses on constructing and optimizing supply chain networks, and the proposed algorithm is applied to multi-objective optimization of intelligent manufacturing supply chains. The experimental results show that the optimized supply chain efficiency has increased from about 81% before optimization to 96.13%. The total cost is controlled between 2.30654 and 3.38452 million yuan, which is 8%-12% lower than traditional methods. The profits are maximized to 1.42387 million yuan. The utilization rates of raw materials and remanufactured materials have increased to 83.78% and 69.21%, respectively. Energy consumption is controlled between 1442.672 and 1524.567 MWh. Carbon emissions are reduced to 126.564 tons. The highest product recycling rate is 74.52%. The total logistics distance of the supply chain is optimized from 1147.932 to 1389.432 km, and the production cycle is shortened from 44.982 to 49.782 h. By modeling and optimizing parameters such as logistics nodes, production cycles, and utilization rates of raw and remanufactured materials, the algorithm proposed by the research performs excellently, with a stable running time ranging from 18.732 to 19.564 s. The significance of the research lies in providing a dynamic, efficient, and sustainable CLSC design model for intelligent manufacturing systems, and demonstrating the significant advantages of this method in improving supply chain efficiency, optimizing cost control, and achieving environmental sustainability.

The impact of financing mechanism on supply chain sustainability and efficiency

In 21 century, the market competition tends to compete between supply chain and supply chain. The competitive power of the supply chain comes from the cooperation of supply chain company. This paper made research on the cooperative relationship between supply chain enterprises, analyzed the non-cooperative and cooperative game strategy between supply chain enterprises, compared the cooperation efficiency in both cases. The efficiency of most supply chain is low under non-cooperative strategy, and cooperative game can make the supply chain get greater return in the theory. The conclusion is that long-term cooperation in the supply chain can lead to greater benefits for the supply chain enterprises. Therefore, cooperative game strategy can improve the overall efficiency of the supply chain, and also allows for maximum individual interests. The results make all parties to obtain higher returns, achieve win-win situation.

This paper reviews the institutional reforms in agricultural commodity markets in India and examines their implications for spatial efficiency in supply chains of the markets. In order to remove inefficiencies in the traditional supply chain, the Agricultural Produce Marketing Committee (APMC) Act was revised, and a Model APMC Act 2003 was introduced with the provisions for establishing private markets/yards, direct purchase centres, farmers markets for direct sale, contract farming and promotion of public–private partnership in the management and development of agricultural markets. Initiative has been taken to set up a National Agricultural Market as an all-India electronic trading portal to develop a ‘common national market’ for agricultural commodities. The institutional reforms in agricultural marketing system since the early 1990s appear to have contributed towards improving the spatial efficiency in rice and wheat markets. The finding of an increase in the extent of spatial integration of markets after the reforms and the tendency of the prices to move towards a common stochastic trend lend support to the idea of setting up a ‘common national market’ for agricultural commodities. Further reforms in the marketing system with better infrastructure facilities would strengthen market integration and improve efficiency in the supply chains. JEL classification: O13, Q13, Q18.

PurposeTo carry out a comprehensive survey on 3PL practices in India and to establish the impact of usage of third party logistics services on business results.Design/methodology/approachBegins by analysing the studies carried out on 3PL practices and establishing a research framework. The input variables to the research framework depict the organization‐specific characteristics, such as the extent of usage of 3PL services, the reasons for outsourcing and the impact of the usage of 3PL services. The output function of future usage of 3PL services is influenced by the three input variables. Data collected through survey questionnaire on the input and output variables are used to establish impact of usage of 3PL services on business performance through statistical analysis.FindingsThe usage of 3PL services reveals positive and significant impact on business performance though 3PL practices are still at a nascent stage in India. Additionally, results clearly indicate that significant increase in outsourcing has been planned across all activities of the logistics function in the next 2‐5 years.Research limitations/implicationsFurther research work should focus on managing 3PL relationships; selection and contract management of 3PL service providers for building collaborative supply chain partnerships; and identifying critical success factors for 3PL implementation and establishing performance measures for long‐term 3PL relationships.Practical implicationsDetailed study to motivate supply chain managers to outsource and use 3PL services to focus on the core business, drive logistics cost reduction, and improve supply chain efficiency. These indicators should also help the 3PL service providers plan the depth and scope of their service offerings to user organizations in India.Originality/valueThe paper contributes to the current 3PL and supply chain practices and the emerging trends in 3PL services for achieving improved business results and supply chain efficiencies.

Enhancing supply chain traceability and efficiency in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector is critical for mitigating counterfeit losses and ensuring product integrity. This study proposes a comprehensive model for the implementation of blockchain technology tailored to the unique demands of the FMCG supply chain. The model emphasizes transparency, accountability, and real-time data sharing among stakeholders, including manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and consumers. By integrating blockchain, the FMCG industry can create a tamper-proof record of each transaction and product movement, significantly improving traceability from production to point-of-sale. Key components of the proposed model include a decentralized ledger that captures product information, provenance data, and transaction history. This approach facilitates efficient tracking of products, enhances supply chain visibility, and enables stakeholders to authenticate goods at any stage. Moreover, by employing blockchain’s smart contract functionality, the model allows for automated compliance verification and streamlined processes, reducing the time and resources required for audits and inspections. The study further explores potential extensions of blockchain technology to incorporate smart contracts that can automate various supply chain operations. These contracts can facilitate automatic payments upon delivery confirmation, trigger inventory replenishment orders based on real-time data, and enforce compliance with regulatory requirements without human intervention. By leveraging these technological advancements, FMCG companies can significantly reduce counterfeit losses and improve overall supply chain efficiency. This not only protects brand reputation but also fosters consumer trust, which is vital in an increasingly competitive market. The implications of this research highlight the transformative potential of blockchain technology in the FMCG sector, paving the way for future innovations in traceability and efficiency. In conclusion, this study presents a robust framework for blockchain implementation in the FMCG supply chain, addressing critical issues of traceability and counterfeiting while offering pathways for future enhancements through smart contracts.

Recently, supply chain finance has attracted increasing attention from the scientific community. However, it lacks serious consideration of social preference in supply chain finance. In this paper, we examine the effects of altruism and reciprocity on the efficiency of a capital-constrained supply chain consisting of a manufacturer with no original capital and a retailer with limited capital in a perishable product market with uncertain demand. The retailer may be in need of short-term financing. We show that, when the retailer has not enough money for his ideal inventory, financing will significantly improve his utility and supply chain efficiency, and global altruism will improve his financing willingness. Moreover, when the retailer borrows a full loan or has more than enough capital, both the global altruistic behavior and the intrinsic altruistic behavior allow sustaining more efficiency of supply chain than with selfish ones, but a more reciprocal behavior improves efficiency if and only if the manufacturer is intrinsically more altruistic than the retailer. Nevertheless, it is different from what may be expected that when the retailer borrows a limited loan or does not borrow but use up all the capital, altruism and reciprocity have no effect on supply chain efficiency. This article thus effectively encourages capital-constrained supply chains to incorporate financial consideration into production decisions and properly guides the firms in the chains either to act more altruistically or to reciprocate more the attitude of their partners.

PurposeThis study investigates the supply chain efficiency of selected companies in the Indian food processing sector. Additionally, it explores the relationship between supply chain efficiency and firm performance.Design/methodology/approachTo determine the supply chain efficiency, the study uses supply chain efficiency measures, such as supply chain length, inefficiency ratio and working capital productivity. Secondary data were collected from the Center for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE) Prowess database for the years 2011–2017. Various return measures, such as Return on Net Worth (RONW), Return on Total Assets (ROTA) and Return on Capital Employed (ROCE), were used to measure firm performance. Collected data were analyzed to investigate the relationship between supply chain efficiency and firm performance.FindingsFindings of the study reveal the prevalence of inefficient supply chains in the context of the selected companies. There is a significant negative correlation between supply chain efficiency and firm performance. RONW has a significant negative correlation with the length of supply chain as well as supply chain inefficiency.Research limitations/implicationsThis study expands the limited existing research perspective; the study helps to understand the supply chain efficiency and firm performance.Originality/valueThis is an original piece of work and provides valuable insight into the relationship between supply chain efficiency and firm performance.

ABSTRACTHospitals are searching for ways to improve supply chain efficiency. Drawing on the success of supply chain digitization in other industries, hospitals have increased their efforts to digitize supply chain operations via investments in IT to address pain points associated with supply disruptions and rising costs, including supply costs that account for more than 40% of operating expenses. Prior research fails to consider how IT investment decisions are justified concerning their impact on supply chain performance when the decision‐maker sits outside the supply chain function. We draw on the Practice‐Based Theory to explain how IT investment decision practices affect hospital supply chain efficiency (SCE). We use matched survey responses from hospital CIOs and IT managers and secondary data to examine the direct and indirect effects of various IT investment justification practices on SCE. We also investigate the role of moderated mediation effects. Leveraging PBT, we establish a different type of organizational practice in the supply chain management and logistics literature: IT investment justification practices. We extend the PBT and empirically challenge the implicit assumption that supply chain performance is not sensitive to IT investment decisions. Further, we demonstrate which IT investment justification practice is more beneficial to supply chain efficiency.