Chennai Industrial Study Tour – Real Learning Beyond the Classroom | MBA SCM

Our MBA Supply Chain Management students recently completed an enriching industrial visit to Chennai, gaining first-hand exposure to how large-scale manufacturing and logistics systems operate in the real world. The tour bridged textbook concepts with live industry practices across automotive, EV, FMCG, and renewable energy sectors.

Simpsons – TAFE Tractor Engine Manufacturing Students witnessed the complexity behind manufacturing a tractor engine and learned how hundreds of precision components come together through a structured production system. Key supply chain learnings included:

How suppliers are identified, evaluated, and approved
Methods used to assess supplier capacity
Practical understanding of MRP (Material Requirements Planning) and how material requisitions are scheduled to avoid shortages and overstocking A visit to the R&D Centre was equally insightful — students observed how new materials are introduced, tested, and validated. They also learned how product failures are analyzed, helping improve future design, quality, and reliability.

Montra Electric Vehicles (EV Division) At Montra EV, discussions focused on how the withdrawal of government subsidies could influence customer demand and pricing strategies. Students explored:

The cost impact of raw materials and components on EV pricing
The direct correlation between input cost fluctuations and vehicle sales
How companies are building sustainable supply chains to balance cost efficiency with environmental responsibility This gave students a real view of how policy, pricing, and procurement strategy are deeply interconnected in emerging industries.

Coca-Cola – FMCG Supply Chain & Multi-Brand Logistics The Coca-Cola visit highlighted the supply chain complexity of managing a multi-brand beverage portfolio. Students understood:

How different drinks require diverse ingredients and sourcing strategies
The logistics challenges of handling seasonal and demand surges
How planning, warehousing, and distribution are aligned to ensure high service levels across multiple brands simultaneously
It was a powerful example of agile and responsive FMCG supply chain management in action.

Nordex – Wind Turbine Manufacturing (Germany-based Global Leader) At Nordex, students experienced the scale of renewable energy manufacturing, especially the production of massive wind turbine blades. The visit offered exposure to:

Handling and movement of ODC (Over Dimensional Cargo)
Specialized logistics planning required for transporting extra-long turbine blades
The role of supply chains in supporting green energy infrastructure