After the two transportation and logistics themed classes this week, I found this article very interesting:
http://www.strategicsourceror.com/2012/10/more-supply-chain-problems-for-apple.html
Most of the components of Apple’s products were originally supplied by Samsung, Apple’s biggest competitor. The article talks about the modification of Apple’s supply chain away from Samsung. It might seem not surprising that Apple is continuing this shift away from more of the Samsung components during the iPad mini announcement.
However, in recent product launches consumers have been frustrated with long waits caused by shortages. While this could be partly due to Apple’s marketing strategies, many blame the transition away from Samsung. The article indicates that Apple’s newest supply chain recruits, AUO and LG, are barely keeping up with demand.
Lately Apple has been concentrating its efforts on competition. News headlines such as: “Apple suing” and “Apple making patent claims” are common. Is this the right move: to put consumers wants aside and to jeopardize supply chain just to cut ties with the competitor?
To my opinion, Apple, in its attempts to cripple competitors, is seeking other suppliers, knowing that if they will be dependent on their competitors as their supplier, the crippling effect will backfire.
Citations:
“The Strategic Sourceror: More Supply Chain Problems for Apple.” The Strategic Sourceror: More Supply Chain Problems for Apple. Strategic Sourceror, 24 Oct. 2012. Web. 25 Oct. 2012. <http://www.strategicsourceror.com/2012/10/more-supply-chain-problems-for-apple.html>.
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