Product details

This is the first of a two-case series (603-003-1 and 604-012-1).The case examines the supply chain management practices at Wal-Mart, the leading retailer in the world. The case explains in detail how Wal-Mart managed various components of the supply chain including procurement, distribution, logistics and inventory management. It covers how the use of innovative IT tools has helped the company in improving the efficiency of supply chain. The case concludes with a discussion on the benefits reaped by Wal-Mart due to its efficient and effective supply chain management system. This case is structured in such a way as to enable students to: (1) understand the importance of an efficient distribution and logistics management system, in not only reducing the costs for a retailing company but also in creating value for the customers; (2) gain an insight on how IT tools can help a retailing company to improve its supply chain efficiency; (3) understand the supply chain management processes of a large multinational retailing company; and (4) appreciate the benefits accrued to a retailing company due to an efficient supply chain. The case is targeted at MBA/PGDBA students and is to be included as part of the operations management curriculum. The teaching note does not contain an analysis of the case.