Fluxes in athlete popularity highlight the need for proper supply chain management

July 1 2013

A company's needs can change in the blink of an eye and suddenly the supply chain needs to undergo a massive shift. In no place is this seen more commonly than in the professional sports world. Currently, two major organizations are experiencing a supply and demand shift, but for completely different reasons.

In Los Angeles, Yasiel Puig was called up by the Dodgers to the major leagues and immediately took the game by storm. The right fielder has been breaking records on the field with his play and off the field with merchandise sales. According to the Los Angeles Times, in the first four days since he made his debut, the club has sold more products with his likeness and number than any other other player in the franchise's storied history.

Puig has become a crowd favorite and fans of all ages want to show it with a jersey, shirt or bobblehead. Many of the street venders are cashing in with their own versions of Puig merchandise.

However, these events are not always happy ones, as the New England Patriots will tell you. Last week, star tight end Aaron Hernandez was arrested, charged with first-degree murder and immediately released by the team. Many fans were then left with Hernandez jerseys but no desire to wear them. To answer this, the team's pro shop is hosting an exchange event where fans can swap a Hernandez jersey for one of equal or less value,

Of course Ohio fans are well aware of changes in demand like this as the rise and fall of Lebron James in the state shows. These shifts highlight the need for a quality supply chain solution that can be called on at a moments notice to meet the current demands of a business.