A Study of Supply Chain Management Practices in Selected Four Wheeler Automobile Companies in Pune District

Abstract

Four wheeler automobile manufacturing units has shifted focus from traditional supply chain management practices to the contemporary practices. Government and society have keen interest in those manufacturing plants. All elements view automakers as agents of growth because thousands of suppliers and their business are dependent on these OEMs. Central and State Government always encourage this sector by framing industry friendly policies to promote this auto sector for economic growth of the state and country. Major challenges faced by four wheeler automakers in Indian market is fierce competition from Indian and foreign automakers. Specially Japanese and European automakers are establishing their businesses to compete Indian automakers. Major challenge in front of these four wheeler automakers is dynamic market which requires product variety with superior quality at competitive price. So in order to sustain in the global and Indian market these automakers are developing their existing supply chain to next level where these supply chains can perform better. Globalization has forced these automakers to make changes in their existing operations. Right demand forecasting models for the products and JIT production method can help these manufacturers to become leader in the auto market. But still considering logistical infrastructure in developing countries and ability of suppliers to provide high quality parts are issues to be resolved. But still use of advanced information technology tools and availability of highly skilled manpower can be remedy. A genuine effort to fulfil this inadequacy is made by the researcher to undertake this research study. Contemporary practices to manage operations like purchasing, manufacturing, logistics and physical distribution of products leads to enhancement in existing performance of the business unit. This thesis examines the use and implications of supply chain management as a contemporary management in regulating strategic sourcing, use of IT tools, SC planning, logistic managemen