Western Processors Ltd manufactures and distributes a wide range of consumer products from its location in Kingston Jamaica. The firm imports raw materials from North and South America and exports its products to several international markets. The firm also has a high market share locally and in its overseas markets for its wide range of high and low-value products. Management of the company believes that the company could significantly improve both distribution and environmental impact from transportation by investigating the possibility of using various modes of transportation for its various consumer products.

Required:

A. The company designs its transportation network so that a Distribution Centre serves several large customers in its local and international markets. Outline how the company can use such a network to reduce transportation costs while replenishing inventory more frequently. (8 marks)

B. What modes of transportation are BEST SUITED for large low-value shipments that the firm must deliver to various international markets? (6 marks)

C. Outline TWO (2) key drivers that may be useful to tailor transportation to some of the firm's main customers. (6 marks)