Final answer:
Distribution Centers in the supply chain are responsible for temporarily storing materials that are then passed on to transporters. These centers are critical for efficient goods movement and are essential in responding to market demand and supply chain disruptions. Hence, the correct answer is option (3).
Step-by-step explanation:
The facility in the supply chain that temporarily stores materials before passing them on to transporters are known as Distribution Centers. These centers are strategically located to facilitate the efficient movement of goods, ensuring they are close to transportation networks to minimize costs and improve delivery speed. During the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions highlighted the crucial role of distribution centers in keeping goods flowing, despite challenges such as closed businesses, slow down in production, and increased prices due to delays in transport.
Moreover, maintaining efficient operations at these distribution centers is essential for businesses to quickly respond to market demands, especially when it comes to expanding production in the long term.