E-Commerce enabled supply chain management: a proposed model based on retailing experience

Abstract

This paper discusses the concepts of Electronic Commerce (EC) and Supply Chain Management (SCM) as they apply to the retailing sector. In particular, the paper looks at the evolution of the supply chain concept ITom upstream logistics all the way towards an integrated approach based primarily on the principles of partnerships with core suppliers. Evaluations of partnerships between retailers and their suppliers are addressed by looking at Quick Response (QR), Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) and in particular, the growth of Efficient Consumer Response (ECR). The retailing experience in relation to the previously mentioned concepts is covered in the paper through highlighting the experiences of Sainsbury, Safeway, Tesco and Wal-Mart. Finally, a proposed model for Effective Supplier-Retailer relationships is discussed, based on a benchmarking project of several organizations.