Supply chain management is an essential pillar for many businesses. Along with effective planning, it also requires efficient execution of procurement activities. In creating a crossroad between strategy, planning, and operations of procurement, logistics, and supply chain, this new book, Essentials of Supply Chain Management: Strategy, Planning, and Operations, consolidates and details experience and research on effective supply chain management from various experts from around the world.

With chapters on the crucial elements of supply chain management (SCM)/procurement, the book addresses logistics planning, logistics sourcing and outsourcing, inventory management, logistics functions, transportation functions, warehousing, the return of goods, on-demand planning, and customer service. The book covers decision strategies on procurement using break-even analysis, the role of industry 4.0 software tools for sustainable supply chain management, how supply chain management affects the financial performance of businesses, the impact of transport system on firms, and more. It covers different sectors within its scope, including the manufacturing, hospitality, and healthcare sectors. A special chapter also focuses on green supply chain management practices and the impact on businesses.

This book provides a thorough introduction to the core principles of SCM and provides a thought-provoking analysis of supply chain innovation and technology. Each chapter is structured to give readers an introduction to SCM and procurement, defining key terms, and explaining how SCM and procurement affect different types of businesses and markets. The book also provides real-life examples, focusing on the practical applications of supply chain theory and technology.

This book will enable comprehensive understanding of supply chain technology and will be of special benefit to students, professors, marketers, researchers, business owners, industry experts, and anyone interested in learning the essentials of SCM and procurement.