The Changing Manufacturing Environment: Implications for Marketing

Considers the response of US firms to the recent decline in productivity, growth etc and the subsequent adoption of just in time manufacturing pioneered by Japanese industry. Examines the concentration on the reduction in time and costs of the early stages of the product life cycle and the flexibility this allows the subsequent pricing strategies. Highlights the emphasis placed on distribution scheduling and the consolidation of transportation services. Concludes that US firms have accepted that JIT and cost and time reduction programs have been necessary in order to compete in the 1990s.