Procurement & Logistics (AQA GCSE Business)
Revision Note
Procurement, Logistics, Efficiency & Costs
Procurement refers to the sourcing and buying of raw materials, goods or services. It includes:
Identifying and selecting suitable suppliers
Negotiating prices and other important terms and conditions (e.g. lead times, payment terms)
Some businesses employ specialist buyers to manage these discussions
Taking receipt of products and paying for them
Logistics involves the management of acquiring, storing and transporting products to their final destination, including:
Warehousing
Fulfillment, including packing, labelling, and arranging delivery
After-sales service, including tracking orders and managing returns
Effective procurement and logistics make a significant contribution to business efficiency and the reduction of its costs
Benefits of Effective Procurement and Logistics
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The Value of Effective Supply Chain Management
A supply chain consists of all the processes, individuals and businesses that contribute to the production and delivery of a product to the final customer
Diagram: A Typical Supply Chain
The supply chain is all of the people, activities and businesses involved in the manufacture and distribution of products
The supply chain includes:
Producers and processors of raw materials and components
Shipping and distribution businesses
Warehousing services
Wholesalers and retail businesses
Businesses balance costs with quality, reliability and speed at each stage of the supply chain
E.g. Delivering finished goods by air freight is very quick, but it is very expensive so a business may use road haulage to distribute its products to retailers
The importance of effective supply chains
It helps minimise production costs
Sourcing raw materials and components, storing stock and distributing goods to customers are organised in the most efficient way
It improves customer satisfaction
The right products are available at the right time and place
As their needs and wants are met promptly, they are likely to recommend the business to others and remain loyal
It helps businesses to respond quickly to market changes
They can introduce new products quickly and provide, giving them a competitive advantage
It reduces risks
Supply disruptions, quality issues, or fluctuations in demand can be managed effectively
It improves cash flow
There is less need to hold large volumes of stock, freeing up cash for other uses
Examiner Tip
A common misconception is that logistics is simply another word for distribution.
Logistics involves all of the planning, implementing, and controlling of the efficient flow of products from raw materials to the end customer. Distribution is one component of logistics that deals with the final stages of delivering goods to customers or retailers.
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