Comparative Analysis of Supply Chain Management Practices of a Few Select Firms in India

This paper presents a comparative analysis of Supply Chain Management (SCM) practices of twenty-five select firms in India. Our exploratory study covers a wide spectrum of firms. These comprise retail chains, logistic service providers, Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) companies, a hotel, a power generation unit, electrical and electronic goods manufacturers, automobile companies and their ancillaries. Field visits to at least one major facility of these firms were carried out during the year 2005. On-site observations and informal discussions and interviews with middle and top managers are the primary sources of data. These were substantiated with data and information from secondary sources. We specifically focus on supply chain structures; facilities network design; transportation and logistics; collaborations and partnerships; and the role of Information and Communications Technologies (ICT). Comparative analysis of SCM practices of these firms indicates various similarities, differences, emergent trends as well as areas of concern. Finally, directions for future research are suggested.