buying for immediate needs; spot purchasing
Business term for purchasing only what is needed right now, without stockpiling. Often contrasted with bulk buying.
We don't want to hold inventory, so we just buy what we need as we go.
Spot purchasing often doesn't qualify for bulk discounts.
Compound of 当用 (とうよう, 'current use' or 'immediate need') and 買い (かい, 'buying'). The term is used primarily in business contexts.