Supply Chain Network Framework Simulation - Research Paper Example

Issues will include problems during transhipment, mixing of different varieties and grades of tomatoes, in terms of size and variety, and also the major issue of potential contamination, due to washing of the tomatoes conducted through the water with lowered standards of purity and quality standards. There have been instances where fruits and vegetables have been washed with water that has been contaminated with animal or human faeces. Lowered standards of handling could result in damages or putrefaction of the tomatoes before it reaches the final point of loading.

It could be said that the Supply Chain Management in the marketing of tomatoes from Puerto Rico to London is unique, in that it could be done directly, or through intermediaries. The logistical transportation consists of a broad collection of service providers, covering all types of transport such as air, road, rail, sea and the related services such as warehousing, handling, stevedoring and other value added services like packaging, labelling and assembling etc.In conclusion, it needs to be emphasised that the supply chain management systems and logistical control are more critical than it sounds, especially in the food business and particularly, fresh fruits and vegetables whose shelf life is determined largely by the high standards of care derived during the supply chain process.

In the present global business environment characterized by improved transportation facilities and advanced information technology, the business operations become global and the borders between countries are irrelevant. In this situation, supply chain management has greater importance in the trans-national business operations of companies. It is of greater importance in the export and import industry where the link between the suppliers of raw materials to the end customers is complex in nature.