How can supply network management be used to improve the quality of corrugated cardboard suppliers in China? : A case study of Tetra Pak in China

Abstract: This thesis involved Tetra Pak and corrugated cardboard suppliers in China at various locations to understand how this industry looks like, the reasons for inconsistent quality and analysis of the current state of whole industry, and recommendations for improvement. As innovation can bring competitive advantage to companies, our thesis focused upon making extended value of material flow from Tetra Pak and suppliers. The aim of this project is to investigate how strategic intelligence can create value and strengthen Tetra Pak business relationship with its customers in big emerging markets like China. Theoretical framework creates a foundation for how to structure the efficiently utilize intelligence in the decision-making process for a MNC. Another aspect of the thesis was to examine supply network management process and the supplier relationship development in China, as well as the strategic, social, macro economy aspects that influence change management in medium and large organizations. Corrugated cardboard industry in China is still in a transitioning to a mature market. One conclusion drawn from the trip to China is that the dairy producer should start emphasizing visual control on quality, and less concern on price. They should see their suppliers as long term partners but not just treat them as providers. Because it is fundamentally undercutting the ability of the organization to improve what it provides to customers through better quality and productivity. It hinders efforts from reducing cost. Finally, the research problems we focus throughout this thesis will be answered after the analysis. Moreover, we will provide some suggestions about corrugated industry and our case company-Tetra Pak.