Authors
Leandro C Coelho, Gilbert Laporte
Publication date
2013/11/18
Journal
International Journal of Production Research
Volume
51
Issue
23-24
Pages
7156-7169
Publisher
Taylor & Francis
Description
The combined operation of distribution and inventory control achieved through a vendor-managed inventory strategy creates a synergetic interaction that benefits supplier and customers. Inventory-Routing Problems (IRPs) arise when inventory and routing decisions must be taken simultaneously, which yields a difficult combinatorial optimisation problem. While most IRP research deals with a single product, there are often several products involved in distribution activities. In this paper, we propose a branch-and-cut algorithm for the solution of IRPs with multiple products and multiple vehicles. We formally define and model the problem, and we solve it exactly. We also consider the inclusion of consistency features that are meaningful in a multi-product environment and help improve the quality of the service offered.
Scholar articles
LC Coelho, G Laporte - International Journal of Production Research, 2013