--- title: Understanding Supply Chain Management - LPC International description: In this article we look at what supply chain management is all about, why supply chain management is so important, what's involved in supply chain optimisation and much more! image: https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hubfs/Understanding%20Supply%20Chain%20Management.jpg --- -   [01285 704470](tel:01285704470) - [ jtindley@lpcinternational.com](mailto:jtindley@lpcinternational.com) [![LPC logo](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/LPC%20logo.webp?width=473&height=64&name=LPC%20logo.webp "LPC logo")](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/) [![LPC logo](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/LPC%20logo.webp?width=473&height=64&name=LPC%20logo.webp "LPC logo")](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/) - [Home](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk) - About - [Why LPC](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/why-lpc) - [Clients & Business Sectors](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/clients-and-business-sectors) - 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[Home](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk) - About - [Why LPC](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/why-lpc) - [Clients & Business Sectors](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/clients-and-business-sectors) - [The Team](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/the-team) - [Expert Witness & Logistics Dispute Resolution](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/expert-witness) - [SME Business Support](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/sme-business-support) - Supply Chain - [Strategy](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/supply-chain-strategy-consulting/) - [Network Design](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/network-design) - [Inventory Management](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/inventory-management) - [Outsourcing](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/outsourcing) - Warehousing - [Warehouse Design](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/warehouse-design-and-planning) - [Warehouse Consulting](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/warehouse-improvements-and-engineering) - [Systems & Processes](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/systems-and-processes) - [Warehouse Productivity Consultants](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/warehouse-productivity) - [Warehouse Modelling & Simulation](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/modelling-and-simulation) - Project Implementation - [Equipment Procurement](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/equipment) - [Equipment Procurement](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/procurement) - [Project Management Support](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/project-management) - Automation & Robotics - [Warehouse Automation & Robotics](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/automation-and-robotics) - [Is Warehouse Automation For You?](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/warehouse-automation-for-you) - Resources - [Case Studies](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/case-studies) - [Downloads](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/downloads) - [Blogs](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog) - [Storage Systems](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/equipment) [![Contact Us](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2191642/interactive-199423175003.png)](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLI%2F8EOhK8AbSSuHLuukQKiPKJ9kmJVeuVeR1UBR4XHobflQMHxza%2Fg%2BwMtPD4JElfQ9tEVp9KMSFGGA7qisHGrILBxYNViooUDg57ctBCKxN%2FEHt%2F0oi6qpTbYP041WlTQnbKAtdjzv%2FUknpI71MdbzSF1dlZRWiwkq%2FH54p9%2FM2HBtPaG7l4HqV9zNZYc%3D&webInteractiveContentId=199423175003&portalId=2191642) [01285 704470](tel:01285704470) [jtindley@lpcinternational.com](mailto:jtindley@lpcinternational.com) [Supply Chain Strategy](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/topic/supply-chain-strategy) # Understanding Supply Chain Management by [Jason Tindley](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/author/jason-tindley) 2 min read 12 Apr 2019, 10:00:00 *![Understanding Supply Chain Management](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/Understanding%20Supply%20Chain%20Management.jpg?width=1200&name=Understanding%20Supply%20Chain%20Management.jpg)* *[Supply chain management](https://blog.lpcinternational.co.uk/logistics-supply-chain-management-efficiency)* is often confused with *[logistics,](https://blog.lpcinternational.co.uk/3-ways-logistics-consultants-can-help-you-today)* which is only one component of the supply chain, albeit a significant one. Your supply chain is every touchpoint for a product that is delivered to a customer. It starts with suppliers of materials, components or services right through to eventual outbound delivery and customer service. It needs a strategy to control and optimise because it accounts for the majority of costs in many businesses. [![New Call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2191642/26d6f364-124c-4456-b38f-0f6f7b26c4b0.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2191642/26d6f364-124c-4456-b38f-0f6f7b26c4b0) ## What Is Supply Chain Management All About? Regardless of industry, there are common functions in [managing your supply chain](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/supply-chain-strategy-consulting/): - **Information flow** – fast and clear communication with all partners - **Inward supply** – consistent quality, dependable delivery times, acceptable material costs - **Inventory** – [minimal stockholding](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/inventory-management/), agile response to changes in demand - **Warehousing and materials handling** – Accurate fast fulfilment, high productivity - **Packaging** – optimised for logistics, load sizes, palletising - **Transportation** – fleet management, route optimisation, 3PLs - **Service levels** – efficiencies must drive out measurable improved satisfaction ## Why Is Good Supply Chain Management So Important? [Proactive supply chain management](https://blog.lpcinternational.co.uk/transport-and-logistics-supply-chain-management-optimisation) reduces costs and improves profits significantly. Every stage of the process involves a cost, whether directly billable to you or bound up in overheads for supplies, warehousing and logistics. Excellent efficiency along the chain saves money and protects competitiveness while poor processes increase costs and erode profits. Poor efficiency also impacts customer satisfaction, which can manifest as loss of business. Businesses that actively manage their supply chain are better structured for increased earnings and growth. The reverse is true of companies that do not. Left unexamined, processes build up over time (or are inherited through acquisitions) that duplicate efforts or hinder productivity. Competition, loss of profit, or changes in demand from the market often spark efforts to assess and optimise the supply chain. ## What’s Involved In Supply Chain Optimisation? Take a business with a manufacturing facility, a warehouse and its own delivery fleet. The delivery network is too expensive and customers want products faster. Optimising its supply chain starts with questions like: - How can we improve our transportation management strategy? - Would [warehouse redesign](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/warehouse-improvements-and-engineering/) make fulfilment more efficient with better productivity? - Is one warehouse or DC sufficient or should products be staged closer to customers? - If we invest in [network improvements](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/network-design/), will we win more market share? - Is there a solid business case for engaging 3PLs? - What can technology do to improve processes and highlight inefficiencies? Expert advice from the outset is valuable to guide companies through ongoing improvements or optimisation in response to known problems. Download our *[Warehouse Productivity Guide - How To Design & Run An Efficient Warehouse](https://blog.lpcinternational.co.uk/warehouse-productivity-guide)* for expert tips to help you optimise your supply chain. [![Download My Warehouse Productivity Guide!](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2191642/935c1b37-4f7b-4f60-a1e3-beac0d81444b.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2191642/935c1b37-4f7b-4f60-a1e3-beac0d81444b) Share this [Share on X](https://x.com/intent/post?url=https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/understanding-supply-chain-management&text=Understanding+Supply+Chain+Management+-+LPC+International) [Share on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/understanding-supply-chain-management&t=Understanding+Supply+Chain+Management+-+LPC+International) [Share on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/understanding-supply-chain-management&t=Understanding+Supply+Chain+Management+-+LPC+International) Previous story [← The Importance Of Logistics & Warehousing In A Business](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/importance-of-logistics-warehousing-in-a-business) Next story [Data, Connectivity, Efficiency: 3 Principles Of Smart Logistics Management →](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/principles-of-smart-logistics-management) ## You May Also Like These Related Stories [4 Key Objectives Of Effective Transport Planning](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/4-key-objectives-of-effective-transport-planning) ![4 Key Objectives Of Effective Transport Planning.jpg](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hubfs/4%20Key%20Objectives%20Of%20Effective%20Transport%20Planning.jpg) [Transport Planning](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/topic/transport-planning) ### 4 Key Objectives Of Effective Transport Planning 26 Oct 2017, 14:40:00 4 min read [Supply Chain Consultants – Can Better Warehouse Automation Give You Greater Supply Chain Flexibility?](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/supply-chain-consultants-can-better-warehouse-automation-give-you-greater-supply-chain-flexibility) ![](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hubfs/warehouse.jpg) [Warehouse Automation](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/topic/warehouse-automation) ### Supply Chain Consultants – Can Better Warehouse Automation Give You Greater Supply Chain Flexibility? 8 Mar 2022, 10:00:00 2 min read [5 Keys To Effective Supply Chain Management](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/effective-supply-chain-management) ![Large load of cargo containers ready to be shipped ](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hubfs/5-keys-to-effective-supply-chain-management.jpg) [Supply Chain Strategy](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/topic/supply-chain-strategy) ### 5 Keys To Effective Supply Chain Management 12 Dec 2022, 10:30:00 2 min read ### Get Email Notifications ### **Logistics Planning Consultants** VAT Number: 667-0474-17 Company Number: 03184658 [Join us on Slack](https://www.facebook.com/LPC-International-1598261453798554) [Browse our GitHub projects](https://www.linkedin.com/company/logistics-planning-consultants-international) [Browse our GitHub projects](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuWye1wWnhhl3hxTqXYxyQw) About - [Why LPC](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/why-lpc) - [Clients & Sectors](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/clients-and-business-sectors) - [The Team](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/the-team) - [SME Business Support](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/sme-business-support) Resources - [Blog](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog) - [Downloads](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/downloads) - [Case Studies](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/case-studies-new-website) - [Storage Systems](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/equipment) Quick Links - [Contact Us](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/contact) - [Book A Health Check](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/book-a-health-check) - [Book A Meeting](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/talk-to-an-expert) Copyright © 2026 Logistics Planning Consultants - [Terms](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/terms-conditions) - [Privacy](https://blog.lpcinternational.co.uk/privacy) - [Cookies](https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/cookie-policy) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "LocalBusiness", "address" : { "@type" : "PostalAddress", "addressCountry" : "UK", "addressLocality" : "Cirencester", "addressRegion" : "Gloucestershire", "postalCode" : "GL7 2PP", "streetAddress" : "57 Dyer St" }, "alternateName" : "LPC International", "contactPoint" : { "@type" : "ContactPoint", "areaServed" : "GB", "availableLanguage" : "en", "contactType" : "customer service", "telephone" : "+44 0128 564 0038" }, "geo" : { "@type" : "GeoCoordinates", "latitude" : 51.7157, "longitude" : -1.9676 }, "image" : "https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hubfs/LPC%20Banner.webp", "logo" : "https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/LPC%20logo.webp", "name" : "LPC International Ltd", "openingHours" : [ "Mo-Fr 09:00-17:30", "Sa Closed", "Su Closed" ], "priceRange" : "£", "sameAs" : [ "https://www.facebook.com/people/LPC-International/100063715956023/#", "https://x.com/lpcint", "https://www.linkedin.com/company/logistics-planning-consultants-international", "https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuWye1wWnhhl3hxTqXYxyQw" ], "telephone" : "0128 570 8211", "url" : "https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/" } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Jason Tindley", "url" : "https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/author/jason-tindley" }, "dateModified" : "2024-10-28", "datePublished" : "2019-04-12", "description" : "In this article we look at what supply chain management is all about, why supply chain management is so important, what's involved in supply chain optimisation and much more!", "headline" : "Understanding Supply Chain Management - LPC International", "image" : "https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/2191642/Understanding%20Supply%20Chain%20Management.jpg", "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/blog/understanding-supply-chain-management", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://www.lpcinternational.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/LPC%20logo.webp" }, "name" : "LPC International Ltd" } } ```