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AMAZON.

Amazon is one of the innovative companies that have taken a lead role in employing the most successful supply and management strategies in the American and international markets. The supply chain is integral in determining the link between the client and the company. Amazon is based on the online market platform that gives all users an opportunity to interact with various products before making a purchase

HAUWEI.

Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd. is a Chinese multinational networking and telecommunications equipment and services company headquartered in Shenzhen, Guangdong. It is the largest telecommunications equipment maker in the world.

Amazon and Huawei are forming a strategic alliance to market Huawei products online. Certain issues have been addressed and this issues lies between mergers and acquisitions and organic growth. Issues that have been addressed are;

Adding value of product

This is the enhancement a company gives its product or service before offering the product to customers. Value added is used to describe instances where a firm takes a product that may be considered a homogeneous product, with few differences (if any) from that of a competitor, and provides potential customers with a feature or add-on that gives it a greater sense of value. Some of the addressed ways to improve the products are;

1. Packaging – should be in desirable packages.

1. Frequent buyer programs- the more someone buys from you the more valuable service, pricing, benefits and related items they receive

1. Recognition and reward levels- this particular concept actually provides recognition to clients or customers based upon their ability to utilize your product or service, maximize its potential, and buy certain levels from you.

1. Speed of service or delivery- products ordered by a customer/client should be delivered fast/ agreed time of delivery.

Improving market access

This is about being able to understand the changing environment and its impact on your customer-base, and being able to adapt your strategy in response to it. Companies need to keep on top of change, identify who the key influences are, understand their needs and respond accordingly. This can be done by, advertising, opening more outlets, increasing number of dealers and increasing the amount of product in the market.

Adding technological strength

Through online marketing and creating automated and customised response websites for customers to air their opinion and suggestions, also online marketing adverts.

Describe three to four benefits that may be realized forming a third party logistics (3PL) provider in strategic alliances

1. Save Time and Money

Outsourcing logistics will save a wealth of time and money for your company. Using a 3PL provider eliminates the need to invest in warehouse space, technology, transportation, and staff to execute the logistics process. 3PL providers can save from costly mistakes, and allow your business to build a global logistical network with lower risk and higher return.

3PLs save you the time needed to carry out the supply chain. There is no need to worry about the paperwork, billing, audits, training, staffing, and optimization involved to get your goods where they need to go.

1. Resource Network

Third party logistics providers have a vast resource network available that provides advantages over in-house supply chains. Using a 3pl’s resource network, each step in the supply chain can be executed in the most efficient, cost effective way. 3PLs can leverage relationships and volume discounts, which results in lower overhead and the fastest possible service. Choosing a 3PL provider allows your company to benefit from resources which are unavailable in-house.

1. Continuous Optimization

3PL providers have the resources at hand to make adjustments and improvements to each link in the supply chain. 3PL professionals will ensure your needs are met, by using the fastest, most efficient, and cost effective methods.

3PLs have the tools to restructure the supply chain, and use technology that ensures the proper amount of goods arrive when and where you need them. Sophisticated management software can analyse and monitor practices to eliminate inefficiencies and streamline the supply chain. Outsourcing 3PL services will ensure continuous improvements are made to your logistics process. Third Party Logistics providers can help maximize profits, reduce wait times, and improve customer service.

REFRENCES.

1. Underhill, T. (1996). Introduction” Strategic Alliances: Managing the Supply Chain. Tulsa: Penn Well Company, Web.

1. Kauser, S. & Shaw, V. (2004). "The influence of behavioural and organizational characteristics on the success of international strategic alliances". International Marketing Review, 21(1), 17-52

1. :www.forbes.com/2002/07/18/0719alliance.html strategic alliances articles on forbes