A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

Fluctuating demand and its impacts to a paper producer: Customer analysis




AuthorsHamalainen Esa, Hilmola Olli-Pekka, Hetemaki Lauri

PublisherPERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD

Publication year2015

JournalExpert Systems with Applications

Journal name in sourceEXPERT SYSTEMS WITH APPLICATIONS

Journal acronymEXPERT SYST APPL

Volume42

Issue13

First page 5779

Last page5788

Number of pages10

ISSN0957-4174

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.eswa.2015.01.014


Abstract

For the Nordic paper industry the years 2001-2007 were a culmination point as to paper production and deliveries. The study uses plant level empirical time series data from these years from one large integrated Finnish paper mill. The research data covers complete customer data and cost components, and a major supplier for European paper markets. The case company worked actively with a customer base and concentrated on the most profitable markets. However, some unprofitable deliveries, which still covered the variable and fixed costs, also supported the operation of the mill and the continuing of the 24/7 shift. The results indicate that even with matured and bulky products like paper, it is still possible to operate on the basis of separated pricing, some bargaining power, and customized focus. In this respect, the markets do not seem to follow the economic theory expectation entirely, that is, for such a mature and bulky product market price differentiation should not be possible. However, to utilize this, it requires up-to-date information system concerning internal cost accounting, together with an emphasis on the management to have an active role with the customer base. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.




Last updated on 2024-26-11 at 22:22