Method for facilitating supply chain functions relating to inventory items utilizing a leased asset inventory model

Abstract

An exemplary embodiment of the invention relates to a method for facilitating supply chain inventory functions using a leased inventory model. The method comprises: entering into a lease agreement with a supplier of inventory items; creating an asset pool for the inventory items; periodically pulling items from the asset pool; and replacing items pulled with items of at least equal quality. The asset pool may contain raw materials for use in a manufacturing environment, finished goods for sale and/or end of life parts for use in servicing failing products. Parties to the lease agreements include a number of entities and may include a manufacturer; a supplier; a retailer; and a hub. Any of these parties may retain possession of the asset pool as well as access to the asset pool.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.