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The
Harvard Building Products Distribution Study
The Joint Center for Housing Studies is working collaboratively with the Harvard Center for Textile and Apparel Research on a project to study changes in the distribution of residential building products. Dramatic changes are underway in this industry. The goal of the Harvard Building Products Distribution Study: Residential Supply Chain in Transition is to understand the changes that are occurring and that are likely to occur over the next decade. The first phase of the research program is studying the evolving role of the distribution channel in this industry. Consolidation among retailers serving do-it-yourself (D-I-Y) homeowners and smaller remodeling contractors began two decades ago and has resulted in just a few major players today, consolidation among pro dealers is a more recent phenomenon, and is just recently gathering momentum. The second phase of the project examines the role of the homebuilders in promoting change in the distribution process. The consolidation among production homebuilders in recent years indicates that distributors serving these customers will need to respond to their evolving needs while continuing to meet the needs of the lower-volume homebuilder and remodeling contractor. The third phase of the study considers the role of the manufacturer in the distribution process. Homebuilders and residential contractors and subcontractors are increasingly looking for direct delivery and installation of products from manufacturers. Performing these distribution and installation functions requires manufacturers to develop new competencies. The Joint Center and the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation support this study. An industry Advisory Panel has been established to provide guidance for the study. Barbara Alexander, Executive Fellow at the Joint Center chairs this panel. Research Team Prof.
Frederick Abernathy Questions about the study should be directed to Marina DiDonato McLaughlin at (617) 495-1508 Related
Working Papers
and Research Notes N03-2: Consolidation in the Distribution of Residential Building Products Rachel Roth |