Competitive success through supply chain management in the glass industry

Ann Vereecke, Vlerick Leuven Gent Management School and Ghent University
Steve Muylle, Vlerick Leuven Gent Management School

Several case studies have shown that supply chain collaboration may result in significant improvements in multiple performance areas: it is believed to reduce costs, to increase quality, to improve delivery, to augment flexibility, to cut procurement cost and lead time, and to stimulate innovativeness. Our research tests whether this statement is confirmed on a broader scale, beyond case research. We provide empirical evidence from the engineering/assembly industries, based on data collected through the international manufacturing strategy survey (IMSS) in Europe. The study shows that companies that have realized strong improvements are heavily engaged in collaboration projects with customers and suppliers. While collaboration with suppliers and customers is no guarantee for success, at least it seems to be a prerequisite for success.

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The Authors

Mrs. sam do Saler vieglass Prof. Ann Vereecke is Associate Professor at Vlerick Leuven Gent Management School. She is Civil Engineer and Doctor in Management (Ghent University). In 1993-1994 she followed the doctoral programme ... Read more