Simulating the (S, s)-Controlled Stochastic System in Different Supply Chains by a Multi-Agent System

The lead-time for the retailer´s inventory system may be changed with different suppliers in chinapsilas low technology industries. A multi-agent simulation system is proposed to simulate this category of dynamic supply chain. In the simulation system, the retailer´s stock was controlled by (S, s) policy, and then four categories of supply chain scenarios were suggested. Four propositions were achieved by the simulation system. With the decrease of s, the retailer´s profit has different tendency under the four scenarios. Optimal (near-optimal) s, correspond to maximum profits, shows significant difference in the four scenarios. The results of the paper demonstrate that s can be significantly changed and financial benefits can be achieved while the retailer cooperates with different suppliers under the four supply chains.