Geopolitics is the new word The nature of international trade is that we often do not know where components of an item are made. It can mean that the most recent invoice containing increased prices, sent from a US based supplier to a US based customer, is the first signal that components in the purchased item are made in China … Read More
Challenges when buying and selling Logistics Services
Documenting a Logistics Service Logistics Services occur through interactions between a buying organisation and the contracted Logistics Services Provider (LSP). But, how will the parties work together in delivering an outsourced service for the client’s customers? To determine the scope and content of logistics services, initially consider them at two levels of deliverables: Tasks, such as a line haul truck … Read More
Your real requirements when buying Logistics Services
Range of LSP options Providing Logistics services for shippers is now an established feature of business in many countries. The question to be asked by the Procurement function at a shipper (brand company) is ‘what outcomes are required from outsourced logistics services?’ The outcomes will differ, depending on the type and size of the business that is buying logistics services. … Read More
New knowledge and skills for people in Supply Chains
Your organisation’s Supply Network Changes to global and regional supply chains are currently occurring through actions by national governments rather than market forces. This could influence how supply chain professionals approach their understanding of an organisation’s extended supply chains and decisions to modify or change business relationships. Your organisation’s Supply Network reflects the political, business and physical environment in which … Read More
Flexibility in your supply chains to address change
The power of large buyers Change is happening in international trade lanes caused by disputes between countries. These changes can impact supply chains, making items more expensive or more difficult to obtain. Many supply chain professionals have experience of negotiating with large customers. They are likely to use their buying power as leverage to try and extract lower prices, longer … Read More