Strategic Planning of Cold Supply Chain Towards Good Manufacturing Practices

Abstract

Cold Chain addresses subset of supply chain involving production, storage and distribution of products that require ‘level of temperature control' to retain ‘key characteristics and associated value' in terms of life expectancy and perishability. Successful cold chain management is essential for pharmaceutical companies, transportation providers and health care practitioners. With growing population and their demand; especially in retail and pharmaceutical sectors drives Indian cold chain market and it has huge potential to grow in the near future. India's greatest need is for an effective and economically viable cold chain solution that will integrate the supply chains for all commodities from the production centers to the consumption centers; thereby reducing physical waste and loss of value of perishable commodities. This article highlights the importance of cold chain concepts with Indian business scenario. Strategic planning of cold supply chain and their real value towards good manufacturing practices are critically highlighted.