Supply Chains Let's begin by understanding what exactly a supply chain is and what it does for a company. A supply chain, or supply network as it is sometimes called, is a coordinated system of people, activities, information, organizations and resources involved in moving a product or service in a physical or virtual manner from the supplier to the customer (Wikipedia, 2007). Supply chains transform raw materials and components into a finished product that is delivered to the end customer. In this case, the travel agency must be able to connect the airline, hotel, car rental, cruise lines and event tickets to the customer wishing to take a trip to a particular location and meet their individual wants and needs for that trip.
Brick and Mortar Agencies Travel agencies began years ago by opening brick and mortar locations throughout the United States. They would open up offices located conveniently within the cities around the country so that many people could utilize their services when planning a trip. A brick Supply Chain 3 and mortar office would provide personal service and information to those wanting to travel either for personal reasons or for business as well. Their offices would include customer service agents, also known as travel agents,