In preparation for a new product launch, a company reviews the production capabilities of several regional plants in comparison with anticipated demand. Plant A is expected to have the highest demand, but consistent supply of parts is less reliable there than in other locations. The firm locates a supplier near the plant, which, although qualified, currently does not have enough space to store the large volume of finished parts Plant A will need for production. However, this supplier plans to expand.
To support plant operations during new product ramp-up, which of the following is MOST likely to be effective?