Toyota is one of the leaders in the automotive industry; supply chains are extensive and include elements of producing based on several forecasting techniques. Large and fixed amount of money is invested. Key trend in the automotive industry is the increase of the variant numbers on individual models and standardization of components in the supply chain. This means that models can be adjusted to the individual tastes of customers and new models are developed and produced continuously in order to meet the changing market demand. The uncertainty in the market place is translated into mix flexibility and volume flexibility in order to be competitive in the market place. There is a difference between mass production supply chains and ‘lean’ supply chains. Toyota can be considered as the first automobile brand that introduced a clear need for flexibility in its entire business system. Toyota’s ‘lean philosophy’ is not only restricted to its manufacturing system: it describes a philosophy that incorporates a collection of tools and techniques into the business processes to optimize time, human resources, assets, and productivity while improving the quality level of products and services to their customers. Currently, several automobile brands clearly recognize the strength of ‘lean thinking’ in relation to increase flexibility in their supply chain activities. In the dyadic relationship between a buyer and supplier, emphasis is put on how the work can be done smoothly in order to improve quality and reduce costs. Best value procurement becomes more important instead of merely a cost-oriented approach that ensures a close relationship with suppliers. First tier suppliers are incorporated into the production development program. These suppliers have their own 2nd tier suppliers under it who supply parts for these components. This ensures that the exchange of information is