A literature review on inventory pooling with applications

Abstract

In this paper, we provide a review of academic research on inventory pooling published between 2010 and 2024, with a particular emphasis on studies that focus on real-world applications. The review analyzes the research conducted over the past 14 years, evaluates the outcomes of these applied studies, and identifies gaps in the literature. The contribution of this work is twofold: firstly, it provides insights into the extent to which theoretical advancements in inventory pooling have been implemented in the practice; secondly, it provides practitioners with an overview of recent real-world applications across various industrial contexts. The findings highlight the impact of inventory pooling on cost savings, service level improvements, inventory optimization in diverse sectors, and sustainability. Additionally, this paper examines the contributions of inventory pooling to economic, environmental, and social sustainability, offering a comprehensive analysis of its role in fostering sustainable practices across supply chains. Finally, the paper discusses practical challenges encountered in implementation and suggests directions for future research in this domain.