A mixed-integer linear programming model for the melon supply chain management in Thailand

In Thailand, greenhouse-based melon cultivation has experienced significant growth, yet it faces critical logistical challenges in balancing harvest synchronization, multi-channel market demands, and product perishability. This study develops an advanced Mixed-Integer Linear Programming (MILP) model for the holistic management of the melon supply chain in Thailand, integrating upstream cultivation, midstream logistics, and downstream distribution. The objective function maximizes total net profit by optimizing revenue generation, labor allocation, and cold chain inventory management under multi-period operational constraints. The empirical results demonstrate that the proposed mathematical framework effectively increases the total net profit by 35.75% compared to the experience-based baseline, while completely eliminating post-harvest spoilage and lost sales across direct-to-consumer (D2C) online and wholesale channels under optimized conditions. Furthermore, a rigorous sensitivity analysis, simulating stepwise cost parameter fluctuations from 10% to 50% based on established benchmarking methodologies, validates the system’s economic resilience and identifies material cost as the singular high-sensitive critical driver, inflicting a maximum profit contraction of -32.18%. The findings confirm that this model serves as a robust tactical decision-support tool for supply chain managers to prioritize procurement strategies and maintain long-term competitive advantages in the perishable agro-food sector.