Title: Implementing an improved inventory management system in a wholesale distributor: a Canadian case study

Authors: Avninder Gill; Jason Lee; Kalinga Jagoda

Addresses: School of Business and Economics, Thompson Rivers University, 900 McGill Road, Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada ' Bissett School of Business, Mount Royal University, 4825, Mount Royal Gate SW, Calgary, Alberta, Canada ' Bissett School of Business, Mount Royal University, 4825, Mount Royal Gate SW, Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Abstract: The importance of inventory in running an efficient supply chain cannot be over-emphasised. Inventory is normally stored in warehouses or distribution centres. Therefore, the management of these distribution facilities essentially includes an effective inventory policy. The present paper explores the role of inventory management in distribution centres considering a case study approach. In particular, the present paper takes into account some key inventory control issues faced by a stationery items wholesale business (called 'Scrapbook Eh!') operating from its facility in Calgary. The paper strategically analyses the objectives of inventory, evaluates the stock levels and new technology option to provide some guidelines to efficiently run the facility.

Keywords: inventory management; warehousing; distribution; supply chain management; SCM; retailing; wholesale distributors; Canada; case study; stock levels; new technology.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTCS.2013.058800

International Journal of Teaching and Case Studies, 2013 Vol.4 No.2, pp.126 - 142

Received: 29 Feb 2012
Accepted: 06 Mar 2013
Published online: 28 Jun 2014 *

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