Product details

The case examines the supply chain management (SCM) restructuring initiative undertaken by Unilever, one of the world''s largest food and consumer goods companies. It explains in detail how the company restructured various components of its SCM practices including supply chain organisation, procurement, warehousing and distribution. The case also examines how Unilever used the Internet and various information technology tools to improve the efficiency of its supply chain. It concludes with a discussion on the benefits reaped by Unilever due to these measures. This case is structured to enable students to: (1) understand the importance of an efficient SCM system for improving operational efficiency for a multinational consumer goods company; (2) gain an insight into the major supply chain components for a consumer goods company; (3) gain an insight on how the use of Internet and various IT tools can help improve supply chain management and reduce costs; (4) understand the importance of e-procurement in reducing procurement costs; and (5) appreciate the benefits that a consumer products'' company can reap by streamlining its SCM practices. The case is targeted at MBA/PGDBA students and is part of the production and operations management Curriculum. The teaching note does not contain an analysis of the case.