Supply chain roles & networks · Core
Downstream
Also called: demand side
ELI5
Activities closer to distribution, customers or end use.
Used in conversation
“The operating plan needs an owner and service level for downstream.”
Pitch context
You will see “Downstream” in operating plans, procurement packs, supplier reviews and supply-chain reports when the discussion reaches supply chain roles & networks.
Why it matters: In supply chain roles & networks, the definition can change ownership, capacity, process, cost or safety decisions.
Sources & evidence · 3
Direct term-level sources and supporting source families.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Productivity programmeDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- UK Government — Groceries Supply Code of PracticeDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- U.S. Acquisition.gov — Federal Acquisition Regulation Part 15 — Contracting by NegotiationSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16