The three main contenders here were Ford Motor Company, BMW Motorrad and Vibracoustic Polska.
Ford Motor Company’s entry centred on a programme to upgrade its steel sourcing capabilities to a “best practice” standard, based on supplier ratings. The company implemented an online steel shortage identification and control system to identify and solve actual and potential shortages, monitor forecast accuracy and ensure a smooth 12-week demand and supply planning period. Using a risk indicator system for each SKU the company worked in close collaboration with suppliers – steel manufacturers – to identify and solve upcoming issues. The judges thought there were some excellent aspects to this project.
Vibracoustic Polska, a company making vibration control solutions for vehicles, worked on a more end-to-end supply chain solution with impressive results on delivery performance, inventory levels and other KPIs. The judges could see a clear supply chain strategy focused on achieving company objectives of profitability, growth and quality – and in the process moving from a “make to stock” to a complete “make to order” operation. This was an excellent entry, but did it have the edge over BMW?
Over a two-year period BMW Motorrad implemented a comprehensive supplier management programme that used risk management as a strategic tool – an asset that proved itself during the economic down turn. A best practice collaboration approach enabled BMW to move quickly to new suppliers.
“The solution is impressive and elegant. In the context of the massive sales crisis during last year, the solution and the security of supply that was achieved is unparalleled,” say the assessors. “BMW gives a perfect example of how valuable it is for both sides to share information and jointly evaluate the risks.”
And so the Award went to BMW Motorrad.
Winner
BMW Motorrad
Shortlisted
Ford Motor Company
BMW Motorrad
Tekdata Interconnections
Vibracoustic Polska
