Paper info: Novel Actors in the Apparel Industry Modelling Intermediaries in Global Supply Networks
Title
Novel Actors in the Apparel Industry Modelling Intermediaries in Global Supply Networks
Authors
Mette Vedel
Place of Publication
The paper was published at the 27th IMP-conference in Glasgow, Scotland in 2011.
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Abstract
ABSTRACT
The purpose of this conceptual work-in-progress paper is to create a descriptive model for the
study of intermediaries in the buyer-driven global supply networks, which characterize the
apparel industry. The paper combines insights from channel research, network studies,
studies of international trade intermediaries (ITIs), and the apparel industry for the
description of intermediary functions. The resulting model conceptualizes intermediaries as
actors, who perform contextualized configurations of services, marketing, design and
sourcing activities combined with structural mediation and risk taking. The specific
configuration depends on the customers’ needs for either flexibility or stability.
Keywords: Supply networks, intermediaries, intermediary functions
The purpose of this conceptual work-in-progress paper is to create a descriptive model for the
study of intermediaries in the buyer-driven global supply networks, which characterize the
apparel industry. The paper combines insights from channel research, network studies,
studies of international trade intermediaries (ITIs), and the apparel industry for the
description of intermediary functions. The resulting model conceptualizes intermediaries as
actors, who perform contextualized configurations of services, marketing, design and
sourcing activities combined with structural mediation and risk taking. The specific
configuration depends on the customers’ needs for either flexibility or stability.
Keywords: Supply networks, intermediaries, intermediary functions