Supply Chain Portal is launched...

December 2009

At Gardner, we are continually looking at ways to improve our performance to ensure that we are well positioned within the industry, continuing to be successful on current and new programmes. To support our business, we need a robust supply chain that can meet our requirements of quality, cost and delivery. Gardner recognises that to improve we must work in partnership with strategic suppliers to forge a long lasting relationship. To help us achieve our aim, we are launching a Supply Chain Portal in December 2009 providing us all with a common communication tool. This will apply to all UK Gardner sites with the exception of Gardner Aerospace Basildon, who will be on line by mid 2010.  A number of suppliers may already be using the current system through Gardner Aerospace Ilkeston, we have however made fundamental changes and expanded on the information that is currently available.

The portal is a management solution designed to improve performance throughout the supply chain. It will allow Gardner to share live requirements and forecast demand, whilst providing us with the ability to monitor performance internally and externally. The portal is user friendly with the facility to control non-conforming reports electronically.  Shortly after the launch, we will be approaching all suppliers to complete an on line questionnaire detailing capability and approvals to provide us with an on-line approved supplier listing.

As Gardner is a signatory to SC21, the portal will operate within the SC21 quality and delivery parameters. For more information about the SC21 programme, please visit the SBAC (Society of British Aerospace Companies) website www.sbac.co.uk where you can sign up as a signatory if you’ve not already done so.  If Gardner is a key customer to you, this tool will support a future submission for SC21 accreditation.  Over the coming months and years, the vendor performance data gathered through the portal will allow Gardner to make the strategic decisions necessary and reward good performance, as we look to rationalise our supply chain.

Dave Hughes
Group Supply Chain Manager
Gardner Group Limited