The relevance of total quality management in the food supply and distribution industry: a study

The paper reports the findings of a study of two major companies in the UK food supply and distribution industry to assess the relevance of total quality management (TQM). The focus of the research was two case studies of major organisations which are considered to be representative of the industry. Examination of the academic literature found little work linking TQM and the industry. The study confirms the applicability of TQM in the food supply and distribution industry. The list of TQM characteristics identified are not dissimilar to those in other industries. However, as part of the service sectors, there is a requirement of organisationds in this business sector to be highly focused on customer needs and changes in market trends.