Which term refers to the process of managing the flow of goods from suppliers to customers?

The process of managing the flow of goods from suppliers to customers is best understood in the context of distribution. Distribution encompasses all the activities involved in getting products from the producer to the end user, ensuring that products are available where and when they are needed. It includes logistics management, transportation, warehousing, and order fulfillment, all of which are critical in maintaining an efficient supply chain.

Distribution is specifically focused on the movement of goods and the associated activities necessary to deliver products to customers effectively. This can involve strategic decisions about transportation methods, distribution centers, and inventory levels to optimize delivery processes and enhance customer satisfaction.

While procurement involves sourcing and purchasing goods from suppliers, inventory control pertains to managing inventory levels and ensuring product availability. Production planning deals with organizing the manufacturing processes and schedules. Each of these terms touches on aspects of supply chain management, but distribution is the term that specifically encapsulates the flow of goods to customers.