NISSAN `EXPERTS' TO STREAMLINE BUYING.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Nissan North America Inc. is overhauling its purchasing strategy in an effort to make its supply chain more efficient.

Nissan has two chief objectives: To involve North American suppliers in more corners of Nissan's business and to empower Nissan parts buyers to serve as manufacturing efficiency experts in the quest to help suppliers cut costs.

The moves will be announced to suppliers this week. They will bring Nissan purchasing activity in Tennessee, Michigan and Mexico under one roof, echoing steps taken by other automakers, including Toyota Motor Manufacturing North America Inc.

Nissan is making the changes at a time when …