supply chain

/ˈsʌplaɪ ˈtʃeɪn/

network of suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors

The company optimized its supply chain to reduce costs.

The company improved its network of suppliers and distributors to spend less money.

Business

technical

A system of organizations, people, activities, information, and resources involved in moving a product or service from supplier to customer.

Disruptions in the supply chain caused delays in product delivery.

Problems in the network of suppliers and distributors led to late shipments.

Includes all processes that transform raw materials into final products delivered to end users.

Collocations

supply chain managementthe process of planning, controlling, and executing supply chain activitiessupply chain disruptionan event that interrupts the normal flow of goods or servicessupply chain optimizationimproving the efficiency and effectiveness of the supply chain

a system where materials are received just as they are needed in the production process

a network that spans multiple countries and continents

Think of a supply chain as a pipeline that connects suppliers, manufacturers, warehouses, and retailers to deliver products to customers efficiently.

A well-managed supply chain reduces costs, improves delivery times, and enhances customer satisfaction.

Coined in the 1980s in business and logistics contexts, combining 'supply' (from Old French 'supplier') and 'chain' (from Old English 'cæne').

Often used in business, logistics, and economics to describe the flow of goods and services from production to consumption.

supply

the provision of goods or services

root

chain

a connected series of events or processes

root

English Dictionary