Kuiper Leda Supply Chain Defense
Kuiper Leda Inc. is an electronic components manufacturer established in the Republic of Novamia, specializing in Electrical Control Units (ECUs) and sensors for automotive industries. The company has been in operation for 10 years, starting with revenues of $100 million which now have reached $400 million (University of Phoenix, 2004). Kuiper recently entered into another product line: Radio Frequency Identification Devices (RFID) tags. The line has been in operation for almost six months. Its strong technology base has enabled it to make progress in the international market. Over the years Kuiper has built a sturdy reputation with its consumers, and is known for quality and delivery responsiveness. Kuiper flourishes on repeat orders and supplier relations, but the company is also working in a highly competitive industry and needs to be constantly aware of its competitors. Because of the large operating scale, Kuiper must maintain focus on capacity management and delivery. Kuiper works with smaller customers and has a limited daily capacity of ECUs and RFIDs. Supply Chain Management is very important for the growth of Kuiper Leda Inc. Kuiper Leda will have an opportunity to exploit its RFID capability with a large consumer. This large consumer is a channel distributor with a significant customer base. Kuiper Leda is a mature business and has not adapted to newer business practices. After initial dealings with Kuiper Leda, the distributor is concerned about Kuiper Leda's current practices. The distributor wants Kuiper Leda to re-evaluate Kuiper Leda's practices (University of Phoenix, 2004).
Supply Chain Management is the process of planning, implementing and controlling the operations of the supply chain in an efficient manner. Su ...