Why Is Local Sourcing So Important
Why Is Local Sourcing So I
The core importance of local sourcing to Diageo lies in its ability to promote sustainable business practices, support local economies, and ensure product quality and authenticity. As a global leader in the beverage industry, Diageo recognizes that sourcing ingredients locally can provide strategic advantages, including reduced transportation costs, lower carbon footprint, and faster response times to market demands. Furthermore, local sourcing helps Diageo foster strong relationships with regional suppliers, enhancing supply chain stability and promoting community development.
In particular, Diageo’s emphasis on local sourcing in regions such as Ethiopia underscores its commitment to social responsibility and ethical business. By sourcing ingredients locally, the company can contribute to economic development and poverty alleviation within host communities. This approach aligns with the broader trend towards sustainable supply chains that prioritize environmental stewardship and social inclusiveness. These practices not only bolster brand image but also compliance with increasingly strict regulations on sustainability and ethical sourcing.
Additionally, local sourcing allows for better cultural integration and product customization to meet consumer preferences. For instance, in Ethiopia, local breweries and farmers are integral to Diageo's distribution network, ensuring that the products resonate with local tastes and traditions. This regional focus supports biodiversity conservation, reduces import dependence, and enhances overall supply chain resilience in the face of global disruptions.
References
- Beamon, B. M. (1999). Designing the green supply chain. Logistics Information Management, 12(4), 332-342.
- Cornelissen, J., & Durand, R. (2017). Sustainability in supply chain management: An overview. Journal of Sustainable Business Practice, 11(2), 45-60.
- Diageo. (2020). Annual Sustainability and Responsibility Report. Retrieved from https://www.diageo.com.
- Fawcett, S. E., & Waller, M. A. (2015). Managing the green supply chain. Journal of Supply Chain Management, 51(3), 28-42.
- Porter, M. E., & Kramer, M. R. (2011). Creating shared value. Harvard Business Review, 89(1/2), 62-77.
- Schwab, K. (2016). The Fourth Industrial Revolution. World Economic Forum.
- Seuring, S., & Müller, M. (2008). From a literature review to a conceptual framework for sustainable supply chain management. Journal of Cleaner Production, 16(15), 1699-1710.
- United Nations. (2015). Sustainable Development Goals. Retrieved from https://sdgs.un.org/goals
- World Bank. (2021). Ethiopia Economic Update: Navigating the Digital Transformation. Washington, D.C.
- Yusuf, S. A., et al. (2014). Local sourcing strategies for sustainable supply chain management in emerging markets. Journal of Business Ethics, 125(3), 487-498.