It wasn't just during the Winter Olympics that records were broken, it was also true for our own country, for our own economy. The NEVI Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) registered an unprecedented reading of 63.4 in February, leaving last month's record of 62.5 far behind. In fact, growth accelerated after 58 months of growth. That too has not often been seen after such a long growth period. How can that be?
The figures show the large and increasing demand for Dutch products both from home and abroad. This is partly due to the good economic conditions in Europe. But in part, the increasing demand seems to be explained by the rapidly increasing delivery times of manufacturers. These lead to customers ordering earlier. On top of this, speculation seems to be taking place as a result of rising purchase prices of materials and components.
What is the significance of this? Does security of supply of raw materials pose a problem for companies? In the short term, probably not and it is a matter of supply and demand. Buyers bring forward their purchase orders to avoid later price increases. Companies would do well to build sufficient buffers for this situation and build the necessary flexibility into their contracts with suppliers and employees. But to answer this question properly, it is important to know well which raw materials and materials are in your products (and semi-finished products)? But also in which other products your raw materials end up or what possible alternatives raw materials and materials could be? This is not an easy job, but a solution is provided by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate. At the request of FME, Metaalunie and NEVI, the raw materials scanner will be launched on 21 March. A great online tool for gaining insight into which critical materials are in your products and semi-finished products, while also offering action perspectives to take concrete steps for your company?
Actually, this is nothing more than smart procurement that allows you to create value for your company and customers. On Friday 23 March, we will tell you all about it: How you can reduce supply risks or shorten the time-to-market, often at lower costs (i.e. more margin), contribute to product innovation, put your shoulder to the wheel with suppliers and thus contribute to the operating result. You can do this with professional procurement, thus creating more results for your company!
Erik van Assen, NEVI community manager (with thanks to Professor Prof Arjan van Weele).
Fri 23 March | 08:00 - 10:00 Theatre ESEF Hall 1 More results with smart procurement in SMEs
