Again there were quite a number of shortlisted contenders for the Award. Belron was praised for its supply chain modelling techniques and network developments, but the changes implemented were regarded as a series of important improvements rather than necessarily innovative steps.
EDF Energy Networks impressed the judges with its innovative use of B2B technology using the Wesupply platform to create end-to-end visibility of demand and inventory. Use of the intelligent technology, together with important process changes, has significantly improved supplier performance and in turn, its own on-time, in-full rating. A programme of strategic change across the supply chain has resulted in greater integration between functions, which has delivered a transformation in the company’s service capabilities. The judges “Highly Commend” EDF Energy Networks for its innovative work to date.
But the winning entry came from pharmaceuticals manufacturer, GlaxoSmithKline, with its highly innovative approach to managing the demand and supply process in the clinical trials R&D supply chain. The company created a predictive tool for looking at the success of its clinical trials on a global basis, radically reducing the amount of demand forecast from its clinical partners within GSK without increasing supply chain risk. This has reduced costs by £50 million and released a significant amount of capacity. Importantly, a lead-time reduction programme has been implemented that allows GSK to delay decision making until after crucial attrition points have passed – thus reducing demand further, increasing forecast accuracy and reducing waste. End-to-end supply chain cycle time has been markedly reduced. The judges say: “This is a step change in the way companies operate in this sector.”
The trophy was awarded to GlaxoSmithKline.
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