Build-to-order supply chains (BOSCs) have recently received increasing attention due to the shifting focus of manufacturing companies from mass production to mass customization. This shift has generated a growing need for efficient methods to design BOSCs. This research proposes an approach for BOSC design that simultaneously considers multiple performance measures at three stages of a BOSC – Tier I suppliers, the focal manufacturing company and Tier I customers (product delivery couriers). We present a heuristic solution approach that constructs the best BOSC configuration through the selection of suppliers, manufacturing resources at the focal company and delivery couriers. The resulting configuration is the one that yields the best global performance relative to five deterministic performance measures simultaneously, some of which are nonlinear. We compare the heuristic results to those from an exact method, and the results show that the proposed approach yields BOSC configurations with near-optimal performance. The absolute deviation in mean performance across all experiments is consistently less than 4%, with a variance less than 0.5%. We propose a second heuristic approach for the stochastic BOSC environment. Compared to the deterministic BOSC performance, experimental results show that optimizing BOSC performance according to stochastic local performance measures can yield a significantly different supply chain configuration. Local optimization means optimizing according to one performance measure independently of the other four. Using Monte Carlo simulation, we test the impact of local performance variability on the global performance of the BOSC. Experimental results show that, as variability of the local performance increases, the mean global performance decreases, while variation in the global performance increases at steeper levels.

This dissertation examines the challenges associated with disruptions in supply chain financing and the railway transportation network. The study is divided into six chapters: In Chapter 1, we introduce the core problems under investigation. Chapter 2 investigates supply chain financing, emphasizing trade credit and bank credit—two predominant external financing mechanisms. Given the inherent uncertainties in demand, interest rates, and supplier credit ratings, this chapter introduces a stochastic programming model accounting for demand uncertainty. Subsequently, a robust optimization program is applied, whose complexity demands a specialized solution methodology. By analyzing a case study centered around a prominent U.S. retailer, the research reveals key insights into decision-making processes related to financing, the effects of bargaining power on portfolio mix and profits, and the relative importance of interest rate uncertainties over supplier credit ratings. Chapter 3 introduces a game-theoretical model designed to hedge financing risks in supply chains, with a focus on the application of insurance for both trade and bank credits. To support the design of effective supply chain finance contracts, three distinct contracts are developed, aiming to synchronize both financial and material flows within the supply chain. A significant feature of this chapter is the data-driven approach employed to address the potential bankruptcy risks that can arise from borrowing loans. Alongside this, a novel solution algorithm is introduced to solve the proposed non-convex models. A case study involving Ford Motor Company and a Chicago-based retailer enriches the research with real-world context. The findings offer several managerial insights: the strategic advantages of different insurance services vary based on the risk attitudes and profit margins of participants. For example, when a retailer operates with a lower profit margin, the use of Trade Credit Insurance (TCI) is recommended in conjunction with a risk-seeking retailer, while a risk-averse retailer might diminish the benefits of TCI. Conversely, with high profit margin retailers, the adoption of Payment Protection Insurance (PPI) is advised under all conditions. In Chapter 4, a game-theoretical model for risk mitigation within railway transportation is introduced. This model addresses random disruptions by employing strategies like repair, re-routing, third-party services, and leasing capacity from competing rail companies. Through a U.S. case study, the efficacy of these strategies is examined, with renting railcars emerging as a particularly potent approach to enhance resilience and reduce third-party expenses. The research further suggests that negotiations extending delivery dates can significantly diminish post-disruption costs. Finally, Chapter 5 summarizes the primary contributions of this research, laying the groundwork for prospective studies in this domain. / Thesis / Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Yes / The role of closed loop supply chains (CLSC) for creating and recovering value is widely acknowledged in supply chain management and there are many examples, mainly in the business-to-business sector, of successful OEM remanufacturing. The integration of value creation and recovery activities into retail customer value propositions is, however, under researched and raises many challenges, especially in Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) retail where few real world examples have been published. The recent emergence of the term ‘circular economy’ has initiated further debate about closed loop value propositions and closed loop supply chain implications. This paper selects four circular economy-led closed loop product case examples from a major European FMCG company, and assesses, at a high level, how these cases created value, for whom value was created, and key challenges in their implementation. The findings highlight that each case is different. Closing loops and creating successful value propositions is complex and requires simultaneous reconfiguration of key building blocks to ensure customer acceptance and business viability. The paper proposes the term ‘circular supply chain’ for cases where circular economy principles are explicitly incorporated in CLSC for value creation.

Yes / This article explores the relationship between sustainability strategies and future energy needs, supply chains need to reduce their CO2 emissions through developing their green credentials and improving performance. Knowledge management (KM) is an enabler to support collaboration efforts. The SCM and KM areas have largely focused on improving organisational performance. While the latter has yielded successful outcomes in different sectors, there is still a scarcity of research on identifying influential factors highlighting those aspects which may enable green supply chain collaboration (GrSCC), thus leading to sustainable energy futures and carbon-efficient production. This paper examines the role of KM in facilitating GrSCC. Through the identification of key factors extrapolated from the literature, a model for implementing GrSCC using a futures-based perspective is proposed. This paper inductively demonstrates the relationship between identified GrSCC factors through fuzzy cognitive mapping technique. Findings support a futures-based perspective that enhances understanding and refines forward-looking strategies for GrSCC.

Yes / The purpose of this paper is to offer a consolidative approach in exploring the potential contribution of digital technologies in sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) for the sustainable performance of food supply chain business, through the circular economy concepts. As a single case study, this qualitative, interpretivist research was based on one of the largest food producers in the United Kingdom. The research utilises semi-structured interviews and applies thematic analysis to offer rich insights into SSCM challenges and their relationship with the business performance, through ten in-depth interviews. Findings derived from thematic analysis of the interview transcripts suggest four main critical success factors underpinning SSCM practices and businesses performance – i.e. business continuity, waste reduction, performance measurement approach, and organisational learning, which could use the help of digital technologies to improve. This led to seven propositions to be addressed in the future research. This research offers real, practical insights into SSCM challenges, within the context of food supply chain and explores the potential of digital technologies in overcoming them. Accordingly, the primary contribution of this work is grounded in the identification of critical success factors in SSCM for Food Supply Chains (FSC). Hence, this work contributes further to the literature on SSCM, as well as circular economy, by providing a study of a business in the context of the highly pertinent and valuable food industry.

Today’s dynamic and increasingly competitive market had expanded complexities for global businesses pressuring companies to start leveraging on Big Data solutions in order to sustain the global competitions by becoming more data-driven in managing their supply chains.The main purpose of this study is twofold, 1) to explore the implications of applying analytics designing supply chain networks, 2) to investigate the link between operational and strategic management levels when making strategic decisions using Analytics.Qualitative methods have been applied for this study to gain a greater understanding of the Supply Chain Analytics phenomenon. An inductive approach in form of interviews, was performed in order to gain new empirical data. Fifteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with professional individuals who hold managerial roles such as project managers, consultants, and end-users within the fields of Supply Chain Management and Big Data Analytics. The received empirical information was later analyzed using the thematic analysis method.The main findings in this thesis relatively contradicts with previous studies and existing literature in terms of connotations, definitions and applications of the three main types of Analytics. Furthermore, the findings present new approaches and perspectives that advanced analytics apply on both strategic and operational management levels that are shaping supply chain network designs.

Notre thèse traite des compétences nécessaires à acquérir afin que les agricultures familiales puissent être incluses durablement dans une Global Value Chain. Nous y développons une grille de lecture de ces compétences, afin de rendre les coopératives capables de gérer leur Supply Chain Management. L’approche par compétences consiste en un apprentissage plus concret, plus actif et plus durable. Il met donc l’accent sur la capacité d’utiliser concrètement ce qui a été appris dans des tâches et situations nouvelles et complexes.Les difficultés des petits agriculteurs remontent à longtemps. Plusieurs études sont été développés pour résoudre leurs principaux problèmes. Ceux-ci comprennent la production à petite échelle, l’obtention du marché pour ces produits, la gestion de leur petite 'entreprise', l’acquisition d’un rendement financier. Le but de notre thèse n’est pas de transformer les petits agriculteurs aux grandes, cette erreur a déjà été commise précédemment par diverses politiques publiques dans les pays en développement. Notre objectif est proposer une voie dans laquelle ils peuvent, même si petite, assurer leur qualité de vie a partir de la production et de la vente de leurs produits.Cependant, nous savons qu’un petit agriculteur n’est pas en mesure d’entrer individuellement dans le marché mondial. Le marché de la consommation a besoin d’une production continue, en volume et en qualité. Alors, ils ont besoins de développer des actions collectives qui puisse les insérer dans ce supply chain global.Pourquoi parlons-nous de l’introduction des producteurs dans les marchés mondiaux, et non pas son introduction dans les marchés locaux ? Eh bien, notre contexte est basée sur les petits agriculteurs de régions sous-développées, ça implique que, les régions dans lesquelles ils sont incorporés n’on pas la capacité économique d’acheter leurs produits pour assurer le durabilité de leurs affaires, de sorte que le défi est d’insérer les agriculteurs dans les circuits globales.Afin que les agriculteurs peuvent avoir un paiement plus équitable pour leur production, et soit capable de 'voler de ses propres ailes', a partir d’un approche capabilités, ils devraient chercher une forme d'organisation qui permet une production avec caractéristiques et qualité similaire, assurer le processus d'emballage et de transport, en plus avoir un potentiel financier et de gestion pour mener des négociations avec les client et fournisseurs. L’option la plus discutée dans la littérature est la coopérative.A partir d’une étude de cas comparative qualitative nous analysons deux territoires dans la région Nordeste du Brésil, dont l’un réussit (le Piauí) et l’autre échoue (le Ceará). Nous élucidons que c’est entre autres la gestion du SCM, le soutien aux apiculteurs et le contrôle de qualité qui sont à l’origine du succès de la coopérative centrale du Piauí. / The difficulties of small farmers go back a long time. Several studies have been developed to solve their main problems. These include small-scale production, obtaining the market for these products, managing their small 'business', acquiring a financial return.The purpose of our thesis is not to transform small farmers to large, this mistake has already been made previously by various public policies in developing countries. Our goal is to provide a way in which they can, even if small, ensuring their quality to improve its product life cycle from production to sale in the market.However, we know that for a small farmer is not easy to enter into the world market individually. The consumer market needs continuous production, in quality and quantity. So, they need to develop collective actions that can insert them into this global supply chain.Why are we talking about the introduction of producers into the world market and not their introduction into local markets? Well, our context is based on small farmers in underdevelopment regions which do Not have the economic capacity to buy their products in the way to ensure the sustainability of their business, so the challenge is; insert farmers into global circuits.In this case, farmers will have a more equitable payment for their production and be able to 'fly on their own', from a capabilities approach, they should look for a form of organization that allows production with characteristics and quality similar, ensuring the packaging and transportation process, in addition to having financial and management potential to conduct negotiations with customers and suppliers. At that moment, we are wondering what is the apropriate legal form “Cooperative” or not.From several case studies we analyze two territories in the Northewest region of Brazil, one (Piauí) and the other (Ceará). We are clear that the management of SCM, support for beekeepers and quality control department are, among others, those that are at the origin of the success of the central cooperative of Piauí.

Orientador: Eduardo Guilherme Satolo / Resumo: A cadeia de produção do leite é composta por diversos agentes que integram a cadeia de suprimentos desde a aquisição da matéria-prima até a distribuição do produto para o cliente final. Esta cadeia tem importância em termos de contribuição econômica e social para o país ou região. Desta forma, a obtenção de produtividade não está relacionada apenas aos benefícios para o produtor, como aumento de lucratividade, competitividade no mercado, eficiência na gestão das propriedades, mas em aspectos que geram impactos na sociedade, como por exemplo geração de novos postos de trabalho. Este trabalho tem como objetivo geral, analisar quais os principais gargalos na gestão da cadeia de suprimentos leiteira de pequenos produtores da região de Tupã/SP. Desta forma, é indispensável explorar os impactos sofridos pelos produtores, a falta de apoio e orientação para que os mesmos consigam conduzir e realizar uma gestão eficiente em sua propriedade. Tal estudo apresenta a metodologia aplicada em forma de pesquisa de campo de caráter descritiva, com abordagem qualitativa, do tipo survey com aplicação de questionário com questões predominantemente fechadas com uso da escala Likert. O resultado da coleta foi apresentado por meio da análise de correspondência. Tais resultados demostraram os gargalos na cadeia de suprimentos, baseado nos oito pilares da abordagem LSCM, sendo: Gestão da Tecnologia da Informação, Gestão de Fornecedores de Insumos, Eliminação de desperdícios, Produção, Gestão de Relac... (Resumo completo, clicar acesso eletrônico abaixo) / Abstract: The milk supply chain is made up of products that integrate the supply chain from the raw material to the final distribution of the product to the end customer. This organization has an economic and social building base for the country or region. Thus, a strategy option is not only an advantage for the producer, such as the increase of profitability, market competitiveness, management performance of companies, but also the managerial impact on society, such as the generation of new jobs. This paper aims to analyze what are the main bottlenecks of the milk and milk industry of small farmers in the Tupã / SP region. Therefore, is necessary It is necessary to explore the impacts suffered by the producers, the lack of support and guidance for them to be able to conduct and efficiently manage their property. The study presents the applied method in the search fields, descriptive, with a qualitative approach, on the survey form, of general studies predominated closed to use the scale of Likert. The result of the collection was presented through the correspondence analysis. These results demonstrated bottlenecks in the supply chain, based on the eight pillars of the LSCM approach, namely: Information Technology Management, Input Supplier Management, Waste Disposal, Production, Customer Relationship Management, Logistics Management, Owners Commitment, and Continuous Improvement. Stands out the result of data collection for the need to improve quality, the implementation of technologi... (Complete abstract click electronic access below) / Mestre

En försörjningskedja är en komplex process som majoriteten av företaget tampas med, både medvetet och omedvetet. Vid närmare granskning av en försörjningskedja kan denna process brytas ner i flertalet delar, vilket gör begreppet försörjningskedja oerhört stort att behandla i sin helhet. Denna studie avser att undersöka vilka faktorer som är av betydelse vid konstruktion av en ny försörjningskedja samt hur aktörer inom den påverkas. Studien initierades genom att ansamla generell ämneskunskap för att skapa en överskådlig bild av påverkande faktorer kring konstruktion och leverantörer. Vidare skapades en teoretisk referensram av litteraturinsamlingen vars syfte är att definiera begrepp, modeller och metoder samt skapa en övergripande förståelse kring hur denna kunskap kan appliceras och användas. Genomförandet av en fallstudie blev en naturlig fortsättning i studien för att skapa en verklighetsanknuten situation varav begrepp, modeller och metoder kunde appliceras. Den empiriska data som presenteras har samlats in genom både observationer och semi-strukturerade intervjuer med fallföretaget och dess nuvarande samt potentiella leverantörer. Intervjuernas syfte var att alla parter skulle ges möjlighet att belysa sin synvinkel, samtidigt som observationerna var tillför studiens författare att få en kännedom om produktspektra, prototyper och verksamheten som fallstudien återspeglade. När den empiriska data hade ansamlats, analyserades detta material utifrån den teoretiska referensramen där syfte och frågeställningarna kunde besvaras. Resultatet som presenterats identifierar kritiska faktorer i innovationsstadiet som supply chain strategy (SCS) och leverantörvalsprocessens inverkan. Studiens huvudsakliga slutsats identiferar att samspelet mellan SCS, leverantörvalsprocessen och supplier relationship management (SRM) är av yttersta vikt vid en organisations arbete med försörjningskedjor. / A supply chain is a complex process that the majority of companies combat with, both consciously and unconsciously. When observing a supply chain, it becomes evident that this process can be broken down into multiple parts, which makes the concept comprehensive to handle as a whole.  This study aims to investigate which factors are important in the development of a new supply chain and how the stakeholders within are impacted. The study was initiated by accumulating general subject knowledge in order to establish a comprehensive overview of the factors that influence the development of a supply chain and its suppliers. A theoretical framework was created through literature collection, with the purpose of defining concepts, models and methods, but also to establish a holistic understanding of how this knowledge can be put into practise. The implementation of a case study became a natural continuation of the study to create a factual situation from which concepts, models and methods could be applied. The empirical data presented was collected through both observations and semi-structured interviews alongside the case company and its current and potential suppliers. The main purpose of the interviews was to allow all parties to enlighten their point of view, while the observations was up to the study's authors to gain an understanding of the product catalogue, prototypes and activities that the case study reflected. Once the empirical data had been collected, the findings was analysed based on the theoretical framework where the purpose and questions could be answered. The result presented identifies critical factors in the innovation phase such as supply chain strategy (SCS) and the impact of the supplier selection process. The study concludes that the interplay between SCS, the supplier selection process and supplier relationship management (SRM) are of paramount importance in an organisation’s work with supply chains.

Implementing strategies and polices and maintain standards are essential to improving supply chain systems. The purpose of this multiple case study was to explore strategies miniconvenience store managers used to mitigate supply chain disruptions to sustain productivity and increase profits. The population was 4 managers of miniconvenience stores within gas stations located in the southeastern region of the United States who successfully maintained productivity during a supply chain disruption. The conceptual framework for this study was resource dependency theory. Data were collected using company documents, face-to-face interviews and semistructured, open-ended questions. Two themes were identified from the data analysis: building relationships and effective communication. The findings from this study could contribute to positive social change by providing miniconvenience store managers with strategies to increase supply chain capabilities while reducing the impact disruptions have on business performance, customer satisfaction, and profitability. Store managers who minimize supply chain disruptions might improve organizational operative purchasing, decrease prices, increase customer gratification, and improve the standard of living for customers in the communities served.