A hybrid inventory control system approach applied to the food industry

The appropriate production and inventory control policy is a key factor for modern enterprises´ success in competitive environment. In the food industry, most of food manufacturers adopt the make-to-order policy to improve their punctuality and flexibility, while some scholars provided other different opinions. This study provides a hybrid policy combining a make-to-order push strategy with priority with a make-to-stock pull strategy. In this policy, the pull strategy is considered for the regular demands while customers who tell their demand needs in advance are treated with a push strategy and are given a higher priority than those who don´t share information. Through a set of simulation experiments by AutoMod model, this policy is proved to be of great efficiency, effectiveness and applicability.