The Japanese approach is based on the fact that far better results can be achieved if companies work together to provide the best possible service at the best price rather than rely on the adversarial approach. The benefits to both parties are numerous as identified in a UK study summarized in Figure 4. Note that the Japanese have recognized that the system is very difficult to operate successfully if the threats and weaknesses of poor payment discipline and information leakage are present. As highlighted by Towill[14] good supply chains relate material flows, information flows, and cash flows to ensure a high end customer service level, simultaneously with system stability