Title: Electronic commerce technologies and changing product distribution

Authors: Ed Rhodes, Ruth Carter

Addresses: Dept. of Design and Innovation, Faculty of Technology, Open University, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA, England, UK. Yorkshire Region, Open University, 2 Trevelyan Square, Boar Lane, Leeds, LS1 6ED, England, UK

Abstract: The paper draws on research into retail supply systems. It illustrates a spectrum of retailing strategies adopted by large companies and SM Es in Europe and the USA. It considers the evolving strategies of companies of different types and at different locations in consumer product supply systems. It links these strategies to fundamental shifts in market conditions, and to the impacts of: intensified rivalries between established players; companies invading new territories; and growing competition from new entrants. In large part, these impacts are related to progressive experimentation with, and application of, electronic commerce technologies. They relate both to changes in upstream supply systems, and to use of electronic media such as the Internet and interactive television systems to disseminate product information and to sell products. it is argued that the long-term trend appears to be towards a more ||mixed economy|| than is often predicted. The nature of this mix will depend on the abilities of manufacturers and smaller retailers to respond to the growing power of the emerging global retail chains.

Keywords: apparel; electronic commerce technologies; innovation; mail order; new product distribution systems; partnerships; product supply systems; retailing; technology management; value chains; virtual retailing.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTM.1998.002601

International Journal of Technology Management, 1998 Vol.15 No.1/2, pp.31-48

Published online: 29 Jul 2003 *

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