The impact of supplier proximity on JIT success: an informational perspective

Investigates the relationships between just‐in‐time (JIT) success and the extent of company‐supplier partnership development, in the context of geographical proximity, communication/ information linkages and usage of certification programmes, using a multi‐faceted measure of JIT success. Analyses data from 130 businesses to test five research hypotheses. Finds that supplier certification programmes and availability of information exchange systems between the firm and its suppliers are significantly better predictors of JIT success than geographical proximity of suppliers. Discusses the managerial implications of these findings and offers recommendations.