Which term describes the flow of materiel from supplier to customer?

The term that best describes the flow of materiel from supplier to customer is "supply pipeline." This concept highlights the entire process involved in getting products from the supplier to the end customer. It encompasses all stages, including procurement, storage, inventory management, and transportation. The supply pipeline is crucial in ensuring that the right quantities of products are delivered at the right time and place, thereby maintaining efficiency and meeting customer demand effectively.

The other terms, while related, do not capture the specific aspect of the flow of materiel as precisely. For instance, a "logistics chain" often refers more broadly to the planning, implementation, and control of operations related to the flow of goods and services, which includes but is not limited to the supplier-to-customer relationship. "Delivery framework" might refer to the strategies and methods used for delivery but does not specifically denote the flow of materiel. "Distribution network" typically focuses on the system of institutions and people involved in the distribution of goods, but doesn't emphasize the complete flow from supplier to customer like the supply pipeline does.