Inventory Management Internship Report
Inventory Management Internship Report
ON
“INVENTORY MANAGEMENT”
MUMBAI UNIVERSITY
(2023-24)
SUBMITED BY:
Student Name
(Roll no. 22139 )
(Specialization: Operation )
SUBMITTED TO:
DECLARATION
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Place: Bhiwandi
Date: Vishal r sakpal
GUIDE CERTIFICATE
Signature of Guide
Acknowledgement
This project report bears the imprint of those who had rendered their wholehearted support
and encouragement without whose help this effort of mine would be in vain. I express my
deep sense of gratitude and sincere thanks to my project guide for his directions, suggestion
and information provided which were of utmost importance for the successful completion of
the project. I am also thankful to Stellar Value Chain head/Manager/Concern person for her
proper guidance. I thankful to the employees of Stellar Value Chain for assisting me in the
Vishal R Sakpal
EXECUTIVE SUMMERY
Every organization needs inventory for smooth running of its activities. It serves as a link
between production and distribution processes. The investment in inventories constitutes the
most significant part of current assets/working capital in most of the undertakings. Thus, it is
very essential to have proper control and management of inventories. The purpose of
inventory management is to ensure availability of materials in sufficient quantity as and when
required and also to minimise investment in inventories. Raw materials, goods in process and
finished goods all represent various forms of inventory. Each type represents money tied up
until the inventory leaves the company as purchased products. Because of the large size of the
inventories maintained by firms, a considerable amount of funds is required to be committed
to them. It is therefore absolutely imperative to manage inventories efficiently and effectively
in order to avoid unnecessary investments. A firm neglecting the management of inventories
will be jeopardizing its long run profitability and may fail ultimately. The reduction in
excessive inventories carries favourable impact on the company’s profitability .
The study starts with an introduction to inventory management, Company’s profile, its Vision
& Mission, Achievements and also the need for study, review of literature and objectives are
set out for the study. Research methodology, Data analysis & Interpretation, Findings and
Suggestions of the study follow. One of the main areas of the project is the analysis part,
where the data are analysed & interpreted, to find out how the inventories were managed.
Some of the tools used in inventory are regarding to:
Safety Stock
ABC Analysis
Inventory Turnover Ratio. And then conclusions, limitations & scope for further study were
discussed.
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Internship Certificate:
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
The primary goal of inventory management is to strike a balance between meeting customer
needs and minimizing the costs associated with holding inventory. It is essential for
businesses to have the right amount of inventory available at the right time to avoid
stockouts, which can result in lost sales and dissatisfied customers. On the other hand,
excessive inventory ties up valuable resources, increases holding costs, and can lead to
obsolescence or spoilage.
Proper inventory management enables businesses to optimize their supply chain, improve
operational efficiency, and maximize profitability. It involves various activities, such as
forecasting demand, determining optimal order quantities, monitoring stock levels, and
implementing effective replenishment strategies.
One of the key objectives of inventory management is to maintain adequate stock levels.
This requires businesses to accurately forecast customer demand based on historical data,
market trends, and seasonality. By understanding demand patterns, businesses can ensure
they have enough inventory on hand to fulfill orders promptly and avoid stockouts.
Additionally, they can minimize excess inventory by avoiding overestimation of demand,
which helps reduce holding costs and the risk of product obsolescence.
customer satisfaction and loyalty. On the other hand, stockouts can result in delayed
deliveries, order cancellations, and negative customer experiences.
Technology plays a significant role in modern inventory management practices. Inventory
management software, barcoding systems, and advanced analytics enable businesses to track
inventory in real-time, automate replenishment processes, and gain valuable insights into
inventory performance. These technological advancements improve accuracy, efficiency,
and decision-making in inventory management.
2. Stock replenishment: Based on the demand forecast, inventory managers initiate the
process of replenishing inventory. They place orders with suppliers or manufacturers to
ensure timely delivery of goods.
3. Order processing: When customers place orders, inventory managers verify the
availability of the requested items. If the items are in stock, the order is processed for
shipment. If not, the inventory manager may determine when the items will be restocked and
provide an estimated delivery date to the customer.
5. Stock storage and organization: Inventory managers establish efficient storage systems
to ensure that items are easily accessible, properly labelled, and stored in appropriate
conditions. They may use shelving, racks, or automated systems to optimize space
utilization and facilitate inventory handling.
6. Inventory valuation: Inventory managers need to assign value to the inventory on hand
for accounting and financial purposes. They use different valuation methods, such as First-
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In-First-Out (FIFO) or Last-In-First-Out (LIFO), to determine the cost of inventory and its
impact on financial statements.
8. Inventory optimization: Through the analysis and insights gained from inventory data,
inventory managers can optimize their inventory levels. This involves setting reorder points
and safety stock levels to prevent stockouts, reducing excess inventory through sales and
promotions, and identifying opportunities for cost savings.
By effectively managing inventory, businesses can ensure that they have the right products
available at the right time, minimize holding costs, avoid stockouts, and ultimately improve
customer satisfaction and profitability. The use of technology and automated inventory
management systems can greatly enhance the accuracy and efficiency of inventory
management processes.
Types of Inventory :
Inventory refers to the stock of goods and materials that a company holds for various
purposes, such as production, sales, or support operations. Different types of
inventory are managed by businesses based on their specific needs, industry
requirements, and the stage of the supply chain. Understanding the various types of
inventory is essential for effective inventory management. Here are the key types of
inventory:
1. Raw Materials:
Raw materials are the basic inputs used in the manufacturing or production process.
They are transformed into finished goods through various operations and processes.
Raw materials can be sourced from suppliers or produced internally by the company.
Examples of raw materials include metals, chemicals, fabrics, wood, or any other
materials used in the production process.
Managing raw materials effectively is crucial to ensure a continuous production flow.
Companies need to monitor raw material inventory levels, forecast demand, and
coordinate with suppliers to maintain an adequate supply. By optimizing raw material
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inventory, businesses can avoid production delays, reduce holding costs, and meet
customer demand efficiently.
2. Work-in-Progress (WIP):
Work-in-progress inventory consists of items that are currently in the production
process but are not yet finished goods. These are partially completed products that
require additional processing, assembly, or value-added operations to reach the final
stage.
WIP inventory represents the materials, components, or subassemblies at various
stages of completion in the production cycle. It is a critical component in industries
with complex manufacturing processes, such as automotive, electronics, or
construction. Managing WIP inventory involves tracking the status of each item,
coordinating production schedules, and ensuring a smooth flow of materials and
information between different production stages.
3. Finished Goods:
Finished goods inventory comprises the final products that are ready for sale to
customers. These are the end products of the manufacturing or production process, in
the form in which they will be sold or delivered to customers.
MRO inventory includes items such as tools, spare parts, lubricants, safety equipment,
cleaning supplies, and other consumables. Managing MRO inventory is crucial to
ensure that the necessary resources are available for routine maintenance, emergency
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5. Goods in Transit:
Goods in transit inventory refers to products that are in the process of being
transported from one location to another. It includes inventory that is in transit
between suppliers, warehouses, distribution centre’s, or from distribution centre’s to
retail stores or end customers.
Managing goods in transit inventory requires accurate tracking and coordination with
transportation providers. Visibility into the location and estimated time of arrival of
goods in transit helps optimize inventory planning, reduce stockouts, and ensure
timely delivery. Companies may utilize tracking technologies such as GPS, barcodes,
or RFID to monitor goods in transit and update inventory records accordingly.
6. Safety Stock:
Safety stock is a buffer quantity of inventory kept to mitigate the risk of stockouts due
to unforeseen events, such as unexpected increases in demand, supply chain
disruptions, or lead time variations. It acts as an insurance policy to ensure that there
is sufficient inventory to meet customer demands even under uncertain circumstances.
Safety stock levels are determined based on factors such as demand variability, supply
chain reliability, and desired service levels. Businesses need to strike a balance
between carrying excessive safety stock, which incurs holding costs, and having
inadequate safety stock, which may result in stockouts and customer dissatisfaction.
Effective safety stock management involves analysing historical demand patterns,
understanding lead time variability, and establishing appropriate safety stock levels
for different products or product categories.
7. Anticipation Inventory:
Anticipation inventory, also known as seasonal inventory, is held in anticipation of
anticipated future demand fluctuations. It is used to address seasonal demand peaks,
promotional activities, or planned events that are expected to generate increased sales.
For example, retailers may build anticipation inventory in preparation for holiday
seasons, festivals, or special sales events. By stocking up in advance, businesses can
ensure that they have sufficient inventory to meet the temporary surge in demand,
reduce stockouts, and take advantage of sales opportunities.
marketing and sales teams are essential to optimize anticipation inventory levels and
minimize holding costs.
Managing dead stock is crucial to minimize holding costs and recover value from
unsellable inventory. Companies employ various strategies to handle dead stock, such
as liquidation sales, promotions, donation, or disposal. Accurate demand forecasting,
monitoring market trends, and closely managing product life cycles can help
minimize the risk of dead stock and reduce financial losses associated with obsolete
inventory.
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NEED OF STUDY
Introduction
storage. This method minimizes handling, reduces inventory carrying costs, and
allows for faster order processing. Cross-docking is suitable for businesses with
perishable goods, time-sensitive products, or those aiming for just-in-time inventory
management.
Objective Study
Inventory management is a critical component of business operations, as it directly impacts a
company's profitability, customer satisfaction, and overall efficiency. It involves overseeing
and controlling the flow of goods, raw materials, and finished products within an
organization. Effective inventory management ensures that the right products are available in
the right quantities, at the right locations, and at the right time. This article explores the
importance of inventory management, its key objectives, and the various methods and
techniques employed by businesses to maintain optimal inventory levels and maximize
operational performance.
1. Meet Customer Demand: By having the right products readily available, businesses can
fulfill customer orders promptly, leading to improved customer satisfaction and loyalty.
2. Minimize Costs: Efficient inventory management helps avoid unnecessary costs associated
with overstocking, such as storage expenses, depreciation, obsolescence, and the risk of
products becoming outdated or damaged.
3. Optimize Cash Flow: Keeping inventory levels in check prevents excessive investment in
stock, allowing businesses to allocate their financial resources effectively and improve cash
flow.
If your orders are too large, you could have too much money tied up in inventory and storage
expenses. If you order too little, you won’t be able to meet your customers’ needs. Economic
order quantity helps you find the sweet spot where your business makes the ideal order size
and maximizes profitability.
2. Just-in-Time (JIT):
JIT is a lean inventory management approach that aims to reduce or eliminate excess
inventory by synchronizing production with customer demand. It involves ordering and
producing goods only when they are needed, minimizing carrying costs and improving cash
flow.
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Once the supplier receives the order, they deliver it to the business
The business fulfills the order and the customer receives the product
While other inventory management systems are “push” systems, JIT is a “pull” system. Push
inventory systems create inventory in advance so that it’s all set to meet customer demand. A
pull system, such as JIT does the opposite as inventory is ordered to meet actual demand.
Benefits of JIT
Reduce waste. With JIT inventory, you can eliminate excess inventory and overstocking,
which can be expensive and take up a lot of space. You’ll also be able to reduce the losses
that come from defective products by identifying and resolving them easily as a result of low
production volumes.
Increase productivity. The JIT inventory technique reduces the time and resources needed for
manufacturing, thereby boosting productivity. The more productive your business is, the
more products you’ll be able to sell and the more profitable you’ll become.
Improve quality. JIT inventory management means you have fewer items in stock. This will
make it easier for you to sell the highest quality products that are free of defects and meet (or
even exceed) customer expectations.
Create flexibility. Ordering fewer products more frequently will allow you to be more flexible
with your inventory. You’ll be able to address customer behavior and shopping trends, putting
yourself ahead of your competition.
Drawbacks of JIT :
Higher inventory costs. It’s more expensive to make smaller, more frequent orders than bulk
orders every so often. Therefore, JIT inventory can reduce your profit from each sale.
Supply chain disruption. If a product goes on back order or a natural disaster strikes, you may
experience disruptions in your supply chain. These disruptions can hinder your operations
and cost you money.
Risk of running out of inventory. To succeed with JIT, you must accurately track sales and
predict customer demand. Failure to do so can cause you to sell products faster than you can
replenish them.
Staffing issues. Since JIT is a fairly new concept and your employees might not be used to it,
it may hinder their productivity. This can prevent your business from reaching its full
potential.
JIT Inventory Management Software
If you’re interested in using JIT to improve the way you operate, JIT inventory management
software is worth considering. It can automate your processes and make it easier to take
advantage of this strategy. While there are many JIT software options on the market, some of
the best include Netsuite ERP, ShipBob, Zoho Inventory and Sortly.
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Bottom Line
JIT inventory can be a great way to save money and improve efficiency, especially if you
implement it correctly. You’ll have fewer products on hand and reduce the risk of purchasing
products you can’t sell. Make sure it makes sense for your unique business model.
3. ABC Analysis:
ABC analysis categorizes inventory items based on their value and importance. "A" items are
high-value items that contribute significantly to revenue, "B" items are medium-value items,
and "C" items are low-value items. This classification helps prioritize inventory management
efforts and allocate resources accordingly.
ABC inventory analysis is based on the Pareto Principle. The Pareto Principle states that 80%
of the sales volume are generated from the top 20% of the items. It means that the top 20% of
the items will generate 80% of the revenue for the business. It is also known as the 80/20
rule.
This method is significant to identify the top category of inventory items that generate a high
percentage of yearly consumption. It helps the managers to optimize the inventory levels and
achieve efficient use of stock management resources.
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The items that fall under the C category are those that slow-moving and need not be re-
ordered with the same frequency as item A or item B. When you put the goods into these
three categories, it is helpful for both the wholesalers and the distributors to identify the items
that need to be stocked and those that can be replaced.
For Example- ‘H&M’ manufactures 80% of its retail inventory in advance and introduces the
remaining 20% based on the most current market trends.
Similarly, ‘Amazon’ does not keep stock of every single item offered on its website. The
stocks of only the popular items that are frequently purchased are maintained. If there is an
order for an unpopular item, then Amazon would request it from its distributor, who would
then ships it to the company.
8. Safety Stock:
Safety stock is a buffer quantity of inventory kept to protect against unexpected increases in
demand, supply chain disruptions, or lead time variations. It acts as an insurance policy to
ensure that there is sufficient inventory to meet customer demands even under uncertain
circumstances.
COMPANY PROFILE
Changing the logistics landscape of India needs humongous capital, planning down to the last
detail, execution capabilities which can merge futuristic with current effectively, and the will
to bring it all together.
With the passion fed from over 25 years of hard-core experience through multiple companies
in multiple stages of evolution battling different and similar challenges, Anshuman Singh
started Stellar Value Chain in 2016. His passion is to see India in the top 5 of Global
Logistics Performance Index.
Anshuman has driven supply chain transformation by setting-up modern Distribution Centres
conforming to global best practices, brought in large-scale technology and automation, and
was instrumental in creating some of the most modern DCs at par with best in the world. The
many firsts-in-India under his belt include setting up of Built-to-Suit buildings, use of global
best-in-class WMS, implementing high-end automation such as Put-to-Light technology,
integrating an end-to-end supply chain.
With the Vision to catapult India to the top 5 in the World Bank’s Logistics Performance
Index, Anshuman realized that he had to bring about disruptive changes much faster and with
greater impact. Armed with an investment backing of USD 125mn from Warburg Pincus, a
leading global private equity player, he founded Stellar Value Chain Solution Ltd.
Stellar aims to bring disruptive changes in the Indian supply chain landscape through ‘Value
Chain Transformation’, thus unlocking value in the Indian economy.
Stellar wants to bring in a fundamental cultural change in the way business is done in India.
Mediocrity and inefficiency are the two key reasons why Indian businesses are far from
global benchmarks. Stellar believes that mediocrity is an enemy that should be defeated and
only then will India rise up in the world economy.
Stellar has now become one of the leading Consumer logistics companies in India covering
over 10 million sq. ft. of logistics space. With the acquisitions of Innovative Logistics, Kelvin
Cold Chain and Patel Roadways, the company also runs a fleet of over 2,000 trucks in
Express, Less-than truck load and temperature-controlled transportation.
The story has just begun. Stellar aims to be the catalyst of change across the logistics eco-
system. The pages ahead will unfold the rest of the story.
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Stellar Value Chain is one of the largest Consumer supply chain company in India. It is
currently operating more than 10 million sq. ft. of state-of-the-art grade A Distribution
Centres, Fulfillment Centres and Transportation facilities. The combined Express and Less-
than-Truckload (LTL) services have more than 2000 trucks running across the country,
servicing 15000 pin codes.
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Stellar’s fast organic growth is being supplemented with multiple acquisitions in the related
space. With the acquisitions of Innovative Logistics, Kelvin Cold Chain and Patel Roadways,
Stellar is a truly integrated supply chain company with services ranging from Contract
Logistics, Express transportation, LTL transportation and Cold Chain operations.
To be the disruptor and market leader, Stellar plans to have 50 Mn sq. ft. of modern
warehousing operations spread across over 40 logistics parks and 21 cities and running a
cross-country fleet of 50,000 vehicles in all major formats of Express, LTL, Distribution and
Temperature- controlled transportation.
With a solutions design led approach coupled with Grade A infrastructure, operational
excellence and knowledge capital, Stellar brings speed, transparency and seamlessness to
your supply chain operations.
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REVIEW OF LITERATURE
INTRODUCTION
The present paper focuses on the review of existing literature in the field of Inventory
Management which helps in capturing both conceptual and research based studies. A Number
of studies have been conducted to find the determinants of investment in inventories and the
process is still going on. The present study is the summary of critical points of a particular
topic consisting of essential findings as well as theoretical and methodological contributions.
My paper shall discuss conceptual studies of both Indian and other nationals.
Eneje et al (2012)
Investigated the effects of raw materials inventory management on the profitability of
brewery firms in Nigeria using a cross sectional data from 1989 to 2008 which was gathered
for the analysis from the annual reports of the sampled brewery firms. Measures of
profitability were examined and related to proxies for raw materials inventory management
by brewers. The Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) stated in the form of a multiple regression
model was applied in the analysis. The study revealed that the local variable raw materials
inventory management designed to capture the effect of efficient management of raw material
inventory by a company on its profitability is significantly strong and positive and influences
the profitability of the brewery firms in Nigeria. They concluded that efficient management
of raw material inventory is a major factor to be contained with by Nigerian brewers in
enhancing or boosting their profitability.
SMEs profitability. They took a sample of 26 Tanzanian SMEs, and used the data from
financial statements for the period 2006–2011. Regression analysis was adopted to determine
the impact of inventory conversion period over gross operating profit. The results cleared out
that significant negative linear relationship occurred between inventory conversion period
and profitability
Soni (2012)
Made an in depth study of practices followed in regard to inventory management in the
engineering goods industry in Punjab. The analysis used a sample of 11 companies for a
period five years, that is, 2004–2009 and was done using panel data set. The adequate and
timely flow of inventory determines the success of an industry. She concluded that size of
inventory enhanced marginally over the period as compared to a hike in current assets and net
working capital. Inventories constituted half of the working capital which was due to
overstocking of inventory as a result of low inventory turnover especially for finished goods
and raw materials. Rise in sales and favourable market conditions lead to a rise in inventory
levels. It was also inferred that sales increased more as compared to inventory.
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
METHODOLOGY OF THE STUDY
Research is an organized, systematic, data based, critical, objective scientific inquiry into a
specific problem, undertaken with the purpose of finding solutions to it. The research
provides the needed information that guides managers to make informed decisions to
successfully deal with the problem. Here I am adapting different kinds of methods depending
on the natures of the study and information they require.
OBJECTIVES OF THE RESEARCH
To analyze the inventory management of this company.
To analyze the entire activities of purchase and stores department.
To suggest the suitable technique to the company to have improved control over the
inventory
TYPE OF DATA
Primary data- The primary data is collected by personal interviews with officials.
Secondary data- Articles, annual reports, PDF. Which have already been passed through the
analyzing process are the secondary data used.
Field work- This was under taken individually to collect information regarding the study by
visiting following sections.
RESEARCH VARIABLES
To find out the cost involved in the entire inventory management process.
To ensure that the supply of raw material & finished goods will remain continuous so that
production process is not halted and demands of customers are duly met.
To minimize carrying cost of inventory.
To keep investment in inventory at optimum level.
To reduce the losses of theft, obsolescence & wastage etc.
To make arrangement for sale of slow moving items.
To minimize inventory ordering costs.
LIMITATIONS OF THE RESEARCH
Time restriction was only 2 months for research in the company.
The finding and suggestion cannot be generalized.
The study covered a wide concept hence wide collection and coverage of information was
not easily possible.
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4 Drive assly -
ECO Dlx -NBO 96000 1700 36 3011.09 8000 31.88
- China
(Impeller)
5 Driven Pulley -
NBO -China 240000 1700 36 4760.95 20000 50.41
(Same pulley)
6 Wash timer -
Eco 30000 1700 2 7141.43 2500 4.20
Dlx(Ningbo) -
With buzzer
39
(S60)
7 Wash timer -
Eco 42000 1700 2 8449.85 3500 4.97
Dlx(Ningbo) -
Without buzzer
(SI 60
ABC ANALYSIS
MEANING
The ABC system is a widely used classification technique to identify various items of
inventory for purposes of inventory control. On the basis of unit cost involved, the various
items are classified into 3 categories:
(1)A, consisting of items with the large investment,
(2)C, with relatively small investments but fairly large number of items and
(3)B, which stands mid-way between category A & C. Category A needs the most rigorous
control, C requires minimum attention and B deserves less attention than A but more than C.
ABC ANALYSIS
B 14 35
C 08 20
Total 40 100
ANALYSIS& INTERPRETATION :
The above table shows the classification of various components as A, B & C classes using
ABC analysis techniques based on unit value. From the classification A classes are those
whose unit value is more than Rs.100 and constitutes 45% of total components. B classes are
those whose unit value is between Rs.25-100 constitutes 35% of total components and C
classes are those whose unit value is less than Rs.25 constitutes 30% of total components. It
is good that the company maintains its inventories based on its value using controlling
techniques.
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ABC Analysis
50
45
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
A B C
Series 1
It is found that, there is a variation in the EOQ & no. of unit purchased. It is
understood that the company is not following EOQ for purchasing the materials. So,
the inventory management is not satisfactory.
From calculation of safety stock, we can able to determine how much the company
can hold the inventory in reserve stock per annum.
From the classification A classes are those whose unit value is more than Rs.100 and
constitutes 45% of total components. B classes are those whose unit value is
betweenRs.25-100 constitutes 35% of total components and C classes are those whose
unit value is less than Rs.25 constitutes 30% of total components. It is good that the
company maintains its inventories based on its value using controlling techniques.
The ratio is showing increasing trend from1.46 to 4.5 in the year 2018 to 2022, except
in the year 2020 which shows only 0.80 times. Whereas in the velocity of inventories
shows less in 2022 as compared to 2018 which is 81 days in 2022 and 250 days in
2018 except in the year 2020 which is 456 days. This shows that the inventories are
easily converted into sales within the shortest period i.e. the company was able to sell
Rs. 4.5 by investing rupee one in the stock in 2022.
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SUGGESTIONS
According to EOQ, as the company does not follow EOQ for its purchasing, the
company can be adjusted to order materials. This will reduce the cost & help to
enhance the profit of the company.
The company is required to maintain safety stock for its components in order to avoid
stock-out conditions & help in continuous production flow.
Under ABC analysis, the management must have more control on A than B&C,
because A class constitutes more(45%) of higher values. There should be tight control
exercised on stock levels, to avoid deterioration. This is done through maintaining low
safety stock, continuous check on schedules & ordered frequently in inventories, in
order to avoid over investment of working capital.
The company must not go to the Non-moving items as far as possible, because there
will be unnecessary blocking of working capital. This would hinder the other
activities of the organization.
The past data shows increase in inventory the company is also expecting more
inventories for future period i.e. 2023. The management is required to maintain the
same inventory trend in the forth coming year also.
CONCLUSION
A better inventory management will surely be helpful in solving the problems the
company is facing with respect to inventory and will pave way for reducing the huge
investment or blocking of money in inventory. From the analysis we can conclude
that the Company can follow the Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) for optimum
purchase and it can maintain safety stock for its components in order to avoid stock-
out conditions & help in continuous production flow. This would reduce the cost and
enhance the profit. Also there should be tight control exercised on stock levels based
on ABC analysis & maintain high percentage in fast moving items in inventories as
per on FSN analysis for efficient running of the inventory. Since the inventory
Turnover ratio shows the increasing trend, there will be more demand for the products
in the future periods. If they could properly implement and follow the norms and
techniques of inventory management, they can enhance the profit with minimum cost.
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•The study takes into account only the quantitative data and the qualitative aspects
were not taken into account.
•The assumption made in the EOQ and Safety stock formulas restrict the use of the
formula. In practice, unit cost, lead time, requirements of inventory items are not
accurately predictable. Rate of consumption varies in many cases. As such application
of the formula often becomes a difficult and complicated matter.
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REFERENCE
WEB SITES
[Link] value [Link]
[Link]/2005/06/safety_stock
[Link]/inventory_basics/index
[Link]/justintime/index
[Link]/inventory_control/index
ABC analysis classifies inventory items into three categories based on their unit investment cost: Category A involves items with large investments requiring rigorous control, Category B consists of items with moderate investments needing less control than A, and Category C comprises items with low investments needing minimal control. This classification helps prioritize the management efforts on inventory items that account for the highest value and thus, aids in optimizing resource allocation and reducing excess capital tied in inventory .
Effective inventory management contributes to operational efficiency by implementing efficient systems and processes that enhance order fulfillment and reduce lead times. Tools like barcode or RFID systems improve tracking accuracy, which minimizes errors and enables faster order processing and delivery . Additionally, by accurately forecasting demand and optimizing stock levels, businesses can streamline operations, reduce unnecessary inventory, and allocate resources effectively, thus improving productivity and cash flow .
The inventory turnover ratio indicates how efficiently inventory is managed by measuring how quickly it is sold. A high inventory turnover ratio suggests effective inventory management and signifies that goods are sold quickly, thus reducing holding costs and freeing up capital. Conversely, a low ratio may indicate overstocking or inefficiencies. Businesses use this ratio as a key metric in decision-making to assess their inventory policy, optimize stock levels, and ensure alignment with sales performance .
Inventory management influences customer satisfaction by ensuring that products are available when customers place an order, thereby fulfilling customer orders promptly. This leads to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty, as businesses can meet customer demands without delay. Stockouts, on the other hand, may result in delayed deliveries and negative experiences, impacting customer satisfaction adversely .
Implementing just-in-time (JIT) inventory practices can be challenging due to its reliance on accurate demand forecasting and efficient supply chain coordination. Businesses may face risks such as production delays if demand is underestimated or supply chain disruptions occur. JIT requires a precisely timed schedule for procurement and production, which can be difficult to maintain amidst market fluctuations or supplier reliability issues. Despite these challenges, JIT can significantly reduce carrying costs and inventory levels when successfully implemented .
Order fulfillment method selection is influenced by product characteristics, business size and growth trajectory, and geographic reach. Perishable or fragile items often require faster shipping and specialized handling, making options like cross-docking or 3PL services suitable. Smaller businesses might start with drop shipping to minimize costs, while expanding businesses might transition to warehouse fulfillment or 3PL providers for scalability. Geographic reach influences the choice as local businesses might use retail store fulfillment, whereas those with a broader reach can benefit from centralized warehousing or 3PL networks .
Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) is an inventory management technique for determining the optimal order quantity that minimizes the total costs of ordering and holding inventory. By calculating the EOQ, businesses can predict the most cost-effective point to order additional stock, thus balancing carrying and order costs. This helps in reducing excess inventory, freeing up capital, and optimizing inventory management to enhance profitability .
Technology plays a significant role in modern inventory management by enabling real-time tracking of inventory through software and barcoding systems. These technological advancements allow for automated replenishment processes and provide valuable insights into inventory performance. Such measures improve accuracy, efficiency, and decision-making in inventory management, helping businesses to maintain optimal stock levels, reduce errors, and enhance overall financial performance .
Demand forecasting contributes to efficient inventory management by enabling businesses to predict customer demand accurately. By analyzing historical sales data and market trends, inventory managers can determine the optimal quantity of products to keep in stock, preventing stockouts and excess inventory. This informs stock replenishment and order processing decisions, ensuring adequate inventory levels to meet customer demands while optimizing costs and resources .
Studying inventory management can provide a competitive advantage as it equips businesses with knowledge and tools to optimize inventory control strategies. By staying updated on trends, technologies, and best practices, businesses can offer better customer service and quicker order fulfillment, differentiating them in the marketplace. Efficient practices reduce costs, improve efficiency, and ensure faster responses to market changes, ultimately leading to enhanced customer satisfaction and business success .