Monthly Archives: November 2012

Argentina’s DJIA system for imports and supply chain impact

An article in Bloombergbusinessweek (November 12, 2012) describes the DJIA system (initials of the Spanish law) that requires each importer to compensate with an equivalent amount of exports. Thus, a bicycle manufacturer who imports parts compensates with the export of … Continue reading

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The Mad Max Economy and supply chains

An article in the New York Times (November 11,2012) describes the Mad Max Economy that focuses on the impact of bad events such as Hurricane Sandy – when generators,kerosene heaters, radios, batteries, candles and industrial fans see demands soar. But … Continue reading

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The retail supply chain impact of Hurricane Sandy

An article in the New York Times (November 4, 2012) describes the impact of hurricane Sandy on the retail supply chain, action taken by companies and the possible consequences. With fuel supply shortages, FedEx started using fuel tankers to supply … Continue reading

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Gas shortages in New York following hurricane Sandy and reasons

An article in the New York Times (November 10,2012) describes the continued shortages of gas in New York. Should the solution be left to the free market (i.e., let prices rise), or should the government step in with odd even … Continue reading

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Fresh water with mobile payments in rural Kenya

An article in BBC news (http://www.bbc.com/future/story/20121102-mobiles-call-out-for-fresh-water) describes an initiative for rural residents to get an opportunity to pay for about 4 cents for a 20 liter jerry can of water, a price claimed to be affordable to all. The company, … Continue reading

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Green US navy and ocean fuel source impact

An article in BBC news online (http://www.bbc.com/future/story/20121019-turning-the-oceans-into-jetfuel/2) describes plans by the US navy to get to 50 % of its fleet powered using alternate energy fuel sources by 2020. One approach is to use seawater as a source of fuel, … Continue reading

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Can omni channel marketing help brick and mortar retailers compete this Christmas ?

An article in Bloombergbusinessweek (November 5,2012) describes a decision by Target, Macy’s and Nordstrom to match online prices to compete gainst Amazon, Gilt and Ebay. Offering same day delivery from store inventory, choosing unique items only made for specific retailers … Continue reading

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Hurricane Sandy, New Jersey ports and retail supply chain impact

An article in the Wall Street Journal (November 3, 2012) describes power supply issues at the ports in New Jersey causing diversions of inbound ships to Norfolk and other locations. But shipping to Dubai from New York costs $ 3000 … Continue reading

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Drug shortages and Medicare role

An article in Bloombergbusinessweek (October 29,2012) describes reasons for shortages of drugs to treat meningitis. While the branded version of the product made by Pfizer continues to be available, generic producers shut down production for several months. The associated shortage … Continue reading

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The buy “Made in France” campaign and consumer impact

An article in Bloombergbusinessweek (October 29, 2012) describes a campaign by the French Industry minister to encourage purchase of products made in France, though they are 15 to 25% more expensive. His goal is to use increased demand as a … Continue reading

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