The supply chain is the network of activities, entities, organizations, and resources involved in producing and delivering a product or service from its origin to the consumer. Supply chain management involves coordinating and optimizing all processes, from sourcing raw materials to providing finished products at the right time, place, and cost. It includes two stages:

  • Upstream supply chain – Activities such as sourcing materials from suppliers.
  • Downstream supply chain – Activities like manufacturing, distribution, and retailing.

By streamlining these processes, companies can gain competitive market advantages and increase customer satisfaction.

Know About Downstream Supply Chain

contact-nab@zetwerk.com

+1 (520) 720-3085

Zetwerk provides high-quality Downstream Supply Chain Components and all secondary operations.

Submit the relevant part drawings, 3D files, and other information by clicking on the button below.

What Is The Downstream Supply Chain?

A downstream supply chain management system is the process that handles the movement of goods, services, and information from a company to its customers or end users. This encompasses all activities needed to get a product or service from the provider or manufacturer to the customer, including distribution, logistics, and customer service.

A downstream supply chain includes many of the activities performed by a company after the production of its goods/services. Downstream supply chain activities include transportation, warehousing, inventory management, order fulfillment, and distribution. It also provides for the process of getting products to customers through retail channels, e-commerce, or direct sales.

It is essential to have an effective downstream supply chain management system to meet customer demand and stay competitive in the marketplace. Companies must communicate regularly with their customers and end-users to succeed in the downstream supply chain. This allows them to learn about what customers want and respond appropriately.

Downstream Vs. Upstream Supply Chain 

In supply chain management, the terms “downstream” and “upstream” refer to the different stages of the supply chain and the direction in which goods and materials flow.

Upstream Supply ChainDownstream Supply Chain
It provides the raw materials or components needed to create the finished productIt brings the finished product to the customer

They are involved in activities like procuring raw materials and stocking shelves with merchandise

Involved in activities like packaging and shipping the finished product, ringing up sales, and providing customer service

The companies involved in these activities are referred to as upstream suppliers

The companies involved in these activities are downstream partners or customers

Upstream suppliers are more dependent on their downstream customers
Downstream partners have more power in the supply chain because they have direct access to the consumer

Downstream Supply Chain Examples

Though the terms upstream and downstream apply to any company, these are most commonly used in the oil and gas industry. For example, an oil refinery sells heating oil to a power company, selling the heater to homeowners and other consumers. Activities that take place at the wholesale and retail levels are considered downstream.

Another example is that the personal computer industry includes all retail outlets selling computers. Computer manufacturers like Dell or Hewlett-Packard also sell their products directly to the end user and retailers (any electronics store). The last element of any supply chain is the after-sales service that the retailer provides to the end user who buys the computer.

Importance Of Downstream Supply Chain Management

Downstream Supply Chain Management is essential to businesses looking to maintain a healthy and efficient supply chain. It involves managing all aspects of the supply chain, from suppliers to customers. By controlling the flow of goods and services between the point of production and their point of sale, companies can maximize efficiency, ensure timely distribution and delivery, and keep costs under control. Companies can increase customer satisfaction, reduce costs, improve product quality, and minimize delays in delivery times by managing their downstream supply chains effectively.