Supply vs demand in the razor business

I am back from holiday, fresh and rejuvenated, with a new story for you.

As I was packing to leave for vacation in Spain I ran out of my favorite razor the Gillette Fusion. I've been a loyal user since the two blade Gillette back in the mid-90s and buying a new pack every 45 days has become routine. But on this 45th day, when I went to several convenience stores in Vienna, including Bipa, I discovered they we ALL out of the Fusion. Knowing how acclaimed, P&Gs supply chain is, I was shocked to find out that inventory was allowed to get so low across the city. I actually trekked to three different shops all of them out. Knowing that I would need a good shave when I checked into the hotel I had to do something I never thought I would do - I switched to Wilkerson Sword. To be honest, as I went to find the URL for the hotlink, I googled "Wilkingson Sword", because I thought that was the brand name. Anyway, I always saw Wilkerson's as the poor-mans Gillette and never get it much thought. But demand beat supply in on this warm day in Vienna and I needed a razor fast. Savings three euros on the purchase also made me feel a little better about it.

So now the punchline, how was it? Actually, I can say it worked as equally as good as the Fusion. I honestly didn't notice any difference and for a few euros cheaper, I am making the switch permanent.

Just another example of how the supply chain is a competitive advantage. Even with my loyalty, at the end of the day sometimes it just comes down to what is available. Hola Wilkerson's!