Write a 700- to 1,050-word paper that identifies each link in the supply chain and the purpose and value in each. For example, if the shoe industry were to be chosen, the supply chain might look something like:

Manufacturer

plans the product mix

designs the shoes

determines the materials

makes the shoes

advertises the shoes

ships in bulk to middlemen

Distributor

receives shipment from manufacturer

establishes relationships with retailers

extends credit to retailers

breaks down from bulk quantities to smaller cases

ships product to retailers

Retailer

displays the shoes

advertises to drive consumers into the store

determines product selection

pays salespeople to help the consumer decide

processes the transaction

transfers possession to the consumer