Aligning manufacturing/supply chain to marketing requirements

Abstract

This project is an attempt to study the supply chain complexities in the watch industry. Watches have more or less become fashion goods as the consumer has become very conscious and is faced with a plethora of options to exercise his choice. One time monopolies in this industry that focused more on efficiency and scalability had to give away to firms that were more responsive and fashion oriented. The issues that confront this industry are very similar to that of the fashion goods industry though not at the same level of complexity. Some of the several issues plaguing the industry are: i. Complex supplier networks-both domestic and international and their management ii. Long lead times for imported components iii. Short product life cycles iv. Demand forecasting problems v. Wide product mix and associated inventory problems vi. Costs of Obsolescence vii. Capacity planning and utilization of manufacturing facilities viii. Flexible manufacturing facilities Versus Dedicated facilities ix. Speed of response or agility to changing consumer tastes x. Efficient after-sales, service and spares network