Less than a year ago, Mr. French started a delivery service to Lynn University in Boca Raton, Florida. The goal was to tap into the student market where so many universities are located. Mr. French conducted an extensive research survey from Lynn University and Florida Atlantic University students regarding their preferences for meal deliveries. The research yielded excellent information. One of the biggest things he learned was that students prefer one meal at a time instead of weekly deliveries of multiple meals. They also learned that student customers are willing to pay a premium to get the meal service. Mr. French approached his best delivery partner about his new plans for a unique delivery service to the University populations. However, the delivery partner quoted unexpectedly high praise for delivering one meal at a time to the target market. As a result, Mr. French approached other delivery partners and scheduled a series of meetings the following week. In preparation for those meetings, Mr. French decided to reverse engineer the delivery process and estimate the actual cost. He also has to make sure that his raw material suppliers will be in a position to fulfill the expected uneven demand that students make. Knight distribution has hired you as an intern. The company wants you to perform the task in support of Mr. French. 

1. As Mr. French's intern, what steps will you take to fulfill the assignment? 

2. What recommendations would you give Mr. French regarding how to manage his relationships with his suppliers? Can you suggest ways to present the recommendations to Mr. French, given that you are his intern? Be specific and support your recommendations/suggestions with facts and sound reasoning. 

3. Assuming that Mr. French finds a new delivery partner who can make sure students get their meals daily, what process would you recommend to ensure that the new contract will be effective?