With supply chain there are a lot of things to consider, especially for companies where they outsource multiple key steps in attempts to reduce costs. Dealing with a Supply Chain Management expert can help you save in time, cost, and stress. In this article we will consider some essential areas on how Albion Supply Chain Management has help businesses throughout Africa.
What is the challenge
Business decision makers often have the view, “it is cheaper to manage this myself”. Is this true? Depending on project-to-project there may be some truth. However, in projects that have multiple steps it often results in higher overall costs. Each outsourced company that gets involved results in repeated steps and amongst other areas leads to increased costs.
What is the best course
Dealing with a supply chain expert that has an established infrastructure is a true game-changer. They should be able to address all your project requirements from concept to completion. They should also be able to provide solutions that keeps pace with your company growth. If they are not able to meet these two basic essential requirements, it is worthwhile considering finding an alternative that covers all your requirements.
What should my supply chain expert offer?
- Concept to completion: Entrepreneurs or product development teams are continuously looking for the next big thing! Having a go-to company that has a history of bringing concepts into reality is essential in this fast-paced world.
- Small- to Large-Format printing: Whether you need business cards or billboard branding, your supply chain expert should be able to accommodate any printing need regardless of volumes.
- Quality control: Presentation is everything. It can set apart companies that cut corners resulting in poorly made products. Having the right quality control in place ensures products are made to spec and retail ready.
- Secure warehousing: Keeping products safe and secure is important. CCTV, dedicated security checkpoints, access control doors, and armed response are just a few of many methods to add security to your warehousing solutions.
- Logistics and distribution: Getting your products delivered safely and on time is critical. Nowadays, retail or distribution centers have dedicated time slots to receive stock in.
- Real-time reporting: Having access to real-time information is essential for decision makers to avoid replenishing the wrong products. Stock on hand reports (SOH), movement reports, distribution schedules are just a few of the must-have reporting.
We take it from here
If you are not satisfied with your current service provider, it is time to shop around. Your service provider must be able to provide turnkey solutions while offering other value add services. Albion Supply Chain Management offers customers in South Africa and across Africa turnkey solutions. Contact us to find out more about our supply chain management services.