Supply chain optimization in enterprises forming industry purchasing groups

The financial crisis of 2007-2009 shook the financial condition of many small and medium-sized enterprises. Currently, managers of such entities are looking for solutions that will allow them to survive in the market as well as to develop systematically. One of the methods that provides the possibility of safe operation in the market is the concept of an integrated supply system in working capital management.

Its application affects the most important elements forming working capital, i.e., inventory, receivables, and current liabilities. Efficient working capital management has a beneficial effect on the profitability and liquidity of enterprises, which means safety of operation in the market. Financial liquidity is currently, in 2012, very important in connection with record predictions regarding the number of corporate bankruptcies for this year. The concept of an integrated supply system in working capital management is used in industry purchasing groups. Its goal is to optimize working capital. It is implemented with the participation of a specially created central unit, which is tasked with optimizing the supply chain, as it is one of the keys guaranteeing a strong financial standing of the enterprise.

J.B. Ayers claims that “efficient supply chain management is the foundation guaranteeing a company’s success”. Enterprises that use the supply chain management method consider it a factor determining success. This group includes, for example, Amazon, Dell, Shell Chemical, and Airbus. However, they claim that this method of management requires continuous improvement.
Since supply chain management is the basis for the effective use of the integrated supply system method in working capital management, it is worth referring to research on supply chain management. Since 1980, it has been recognized as a significant weapon in the fight against competition. In turn, M. Ciesielski claims that only by competing with supply chains can better results be achieved, rather than by acting independently in the market. In the literature, one can encounter the statement that “the fight against competition forces managers to effectively manage the supply chain”. (…)

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