Analysis of an innovation-driven supply chain using supply chain innovations from a “low-tech” sector: a perspective from the composites materials sector

The composite materials sector, a “high-tech” sector, is characterized by a flexible and innovative approach to forming shapes, adapting processes and modifying materials. In the composite materials sector, which might be considered as a comparatively young developing industry, there is not a standard manufacturing process, nor are there standardized materials with defined or proscribed properties for companies to select. Hence, the configuration of the composites materials sector represents a major challenge. An interesting alternative for a “high-tech” sector such as composite materials would be to review supply chain developments and logistics innovations in “low-tech” sectors. One “low-tech” sector that has introduced innovations in its supply chain and logistics operations is the food sector. The main motivation of this study is to identify elements that comprise innovations in the supply chain of a firm in a perceived “low-tech” sector that can be used to provide guidelines in the design of the supply chain of a “high-tech” sector, in this case composite materials. This work uses the case study/site visit methodology to collect data from a Spanish leading producer of fresh fruit juice which is sold in major European markets and makes use of a cold chain. The study highlights supply base management and visibility/traceability as two elements of the supply chain in a “low-tech” sector that can provide guidelines that can be used in the configuration of the supply chain of the composite materials sector.