marks and Spencers – 2000s
Lack of flexibility has been a major weakness within our supply chain. In the past, we bought stock to cover 100% of budgeted sales well in advance of the season. We have now discontinued this practice.
For Spring 2001, while 50% of merchandise is core and therefore bought with long lead-times, we will commit to approximately 40% of merchandise much closer to the season, and a further 10% will be bought in the season itself in response to emerging fashion trends.
M&S Interim Report 2002