US apparel manufacturers’ company characteristic differences based on SCM activities

Abstract

Supply chain management (SCM) in the apparel industry was empirically examined through a quantitative research design. The objectives of the study were to identify the level of SCM activities and to examine the relationship of selected company characteristics for a set of US apparel manufacturers. Through the literature review, six dimensions of SCM (i.e. partnership, information technology, operational flexibility, performance measurement, management commitment, demand characterization) were identified. US apparel manufacturer groups, based on their SCM activity levels, showed statistically significant differences in company characteristics including product fashion level, fabric supplier delivery performance, relationship with fabric suppliers and retail customers and relative size of retail customers. For example, a high level of SCM activity implementation is closely related with the characteristics of more basic goods production, higher delivery performance of fabric supplier, and relatively big retailers. These manufacturers also had more partnership‐like relationship with their supply chain members.