Customized supply chain design: Problems and alternatives for a production company in the food industry. A simulation based analysis

In our paper, we point out that an analysis of a supply chain must be very product-(and company)-specific. For this reason, we suggest an improvement model that helps enhance the performance of a specific supply chain. In this context, we introduce a target system for supply chain evaluation which is necessary to analyze different improvement alternatives. We will show that the ideal robust supply chain setting depends on the demand situation (e.g., smooth, volatile). This model will be illustrated in detail. Hence, the present research studies a product-specific supply chain in the food industry, analyzes the effects of changes carried out and shows how demand uncertainties are dealt with. To measure and analyze the performance effects (e.g. work in process, lead time) of the supply chain configuration alternatives depicted, a simulation environment is developed.