Supply chain involves moving solutions (products or services) from the suppliers to the customer (Mentzer, 2001).Cars of whichever model require numerous parts during manufacture and various spare parts during their usage. Originally manufactured in Europe, the Renault Clio is quite popular throughout Europe and has twice been declared European car of the year. Numerous companies have resorted to producing minicars. Accessibility of spare parts will be a determining factor in making Renault Clio the minicar of choice. It is therefore imperative to that the supply chain is configured via efficient distribution networks (Simchi-Levi, Kaminsky, Simchi-levi, 2007). Obtaining supplies from manufacturers within a proximate distance is one of the most important aspects to consider when selecting suppliers to partner with.
The Renault Clio is famed for its longevity and as such it requires efficient delivery of its parts supplies to ensure continued quality production and maintenance. Some of the supplies necessary to deliver the Renault Clio include different types of engines. The car supplies comes in 1.2L, 1.4L, 1.7L and the 1.9L petrol engines (Renault. 2004). Others include tire and their accessories, electrical components (wiring, battery and lights) and suppliers of aluminum to manufacture the body. Others include body paint suppliers and accessories suppliers.
The new models Renault Clio comes with Crystal clear lights, luxurious carpet mats and boot liners. It is therefore important for internal and external parties involved in the delivery of its spare parts to uphold the cardinal rights of supply. These are; right time, quality services, right quantity, right quality and observance of legal conditions (Ketchen, & Hult 2006). According to (Movahedi, Lavassani & Kumar, 2009) efficient transport mechanisms and warehousing facilities are pivotal in supporting efficient delivery of supplies. The parties involved in the supply of a Renault Clio primarily include part manufacturers and the assemblage plant. However various other parties such as transporters, warehousing facilities and quality assurance teams come into play to ensure effective supply chain management (Larson & Halldorsson, 2004). This increases the competitiveness of the company in the dynamic automotive industry and enhances the car’s popularity.
Various forces could cause supply chain disruptions which could compromise the quality of Renault Clio productions or its usage. Some of these factors include political unrest and terrorism concerns, inadequate storage facilities, inefficient transporters, and economic shake-ups such as the recent global recession leading to inflation (Mangan, Lalwani, & Butcher, 2008). Others include industrial boycotts by employees of supplying companies which affects production and shipping of supplies.
References
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