The focus in today’s global business world appears to zero in on what is referred to as the supply chain. Because of economic, social and other factors, the flow of materials has had a significant effect on a broad scope of industries. In the beverage industry, all segments have been affected to some degree and emphasizes the importance of addressing what is involved, who is responsible, and where does the supply chain really begin?
From an operations perspective, the processing of materials to create or enhance a liquid beverage from whatever source is the start of the supply chain. Although the type of processing will vary with the beverage, raw materials in the form of ingredients and water along with generic or specialized equipment plus an aging factor contribute to whatever system is required and used to result in a maximum yield, which is a major issue in beverage processing and related costs realistically impacted by operating personnel.