Optimizing inventory management in the insulation manufacturing industry

Inventory issues within the insulation manufacturing industry are essential for competitiveness. However, they are largely unexplored in academic literature. Therefore the aim of this paper is to address the research question: “What approach to inventory management provides the best balance between service level and cost for the insulation manufacturing industry?” This is done through an in-depth case study of a world-leading company within this industry, with focus on two of its factories.

This paper contributes with empirical research within operations management in a sector which has not been well-researched and presents results which are useful for both practitioners and academics.