Supply Chain World Volume 11, Issue 3 2024 | Page 56

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Due to its unique business model , XMEK ’ s supply chain management is a vital area of focus for the company , striving not to overwhelm its vendors . “ We handle our work with suppliers very carefully , almost on a oneby-one basis . Our approach is to work as a team with our supply chain , along with our engineering , materials , and customer-facing sales departments . All three departments work very closely with our key suppliers establishing a strong link between our customers and vendors . By effectively communicating the application requirements and customer needs , we enable our suppliers to provide the best solutions . Internally , we explore our options to find the optimal solution and subsequently proceed with presenting the customer with a range of options based on our expert judgment , offering what we believe to be the best course of action . To further support our supply chain , we have implemented various processes and technologies . From a purchasing standpoint , we prioritize digitization by leveraging technologies like Electronic Data Interchange ( EDI ) and employing a sophisticated forecasting methodology . Furthermore , we regularly evaluate vendors through a scorecard system to ensure their performance aligns with our expectations . Our materials department develops its own unique formulations and works cohesively with our trusted manufacturing partners to create proprietary blends tailored to our customers ’ requirements ,” Brad continues .
Strong culture
Across its relationships with the supply chain and indeed , all other aspects of the business , XMEK places a strong emphasis on respecting the core values upon which it was founded . “ The leadership team ’ s unwavering focus on fostering a strong company culture 56