Page 32 - MetalForming December 2013

Identifying and Maintaining a Reliable
Supplier Network
...can be quite a challenge. Here’s how three manufacturers tackle the challenge, with the help of a buying group and its limited network of qualified endorsed suppliers.
Change is certainly a constant in business, which can make the process of managing a com- plex supply chain difficult for even the most successful companies. Iden- tifying and managing suppliers that can ensure a superior level of quality, service and innovation is critical to gaining and maintaining a competi- tive advantage.
Along with the resurgence in North American manufacturing has come—in particular for many midsized manu- facturers—an increased challenge in
Mike McDonald is vice president, new business development, Prime Advantage Corp.: 888/832-5242; www.primead- vantage.com.
BY MIKE MCDONALD
funneling increased volume through an existing supplier network. This is true whether you’re dealing with new or established supplier relationships. Too many questions can be left to chance. For instance:
• Can the supplier meet the turn- around deadline?
• Does the supplier actually have the ability to meet current and future demand?
• Does the supplier use conflict materials?
• Can the supplier match our quality standards based on increased volume?
Can you really afford to have your production planner or procurement director spending time shopping for
and vetting new suppliers when your organization attempts to capitalize on new demand? The answer is, of course not.
Into the Fryer
“As a midsized company, we knew we had limited resources and expertise to devote to managing and enhancing our supply chain,” says Bill Collins, general manager of Ultrafryer Systems, San Antonio, TX, a manufacturer of commercial deep fryers for restaurant and commercial installations. “But, we also knew that doing so was critical to our future success.”
To help Collins overcome having limited resources on the purchasing side of the business, he turned to Prime
30 MetalForming/December 2013
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