SGS Maine Pointe Wins Global Logistics Award at P&SC Awards

SGS Maine Pointe has won the Global Logistics Award at The Global Procurement & Supply Chain Awards 2024.

"It's a real privilege to win this award. I think it's a real testament to our people, our processes and our global capability. Not only that, but it's about the collaboration that we deliver with our clients as well," said Simon Knowles, a representative for SGS Maine Pointe.

SGS Maine Pointe, a global supply chain and operations consulting firm, has demonstrated remarkable prowess in managing complex global logistics operations.

The firm, part of the SGS Group, specialises in delivering sustainable improvements in EBITDA, cash flow and growth across procurement, logistics, operations and data analytics.

In a recent project, SGS Maine Pointe revolutionised the supply chain of a global mining company by creating a digital twin of its entire multi-nodal network.

This innovative approach led to substantial cost savings, including US$13m in annual logistics benefits and over US$11m in network optimisation savings through improved planning.

The firm's strategic analysis also identified optimal locations for new plants, reducing the company's cost-to-serve by 15%.

The consultancy's expertise extends to navigating regulatory complexities and international trade agreements. For an aircraft industry leader grappling with supply chain risks across multiple global facilities, SGS Maine Pointe developed a comprehensive Supply Risk Model and implemented a Rate Readiness Supply Risk management approach.

This initiative significantly enhanced the manufacturer's ability to manage risks in both domestic and international supply chains.

In another case, SGS Maine Pointe transformed the logistics and distribution footprint of a global chemical company.

The firm's interventions were wide-ranging, including a 46% reduction in rail switching costs, identification of 21 alternative rail routes to reduce freight costs and transit times, and implementation of a comprehensive logistics procurement process.

These efforts culminated in a 22% reduction in freight costs across various modes of transport.

SGS Maine Pointe's approach goes beyond mere cost-cutting. By providing clients with data analytics tools, digital twins, and self-serve analytics dashboards, the firm empowers organisations to make data-driven decisions, thereby reducing risk and ensuring long-term sustainability of supply chain improvements.

The awards

Launched in 2024, The Global  Procurement & Supply Chain Awards 2024 debuted at Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE London on 24, September. 

The comprehensive programme acknowledges companies, professionals and projects that have demonstrated exceptional performance, innovation and strategic thinking in a multitude of categories.

The awards celebrate the best companies, professionals and projects in procurement and supply chain, and offer free entry for charities and NGOs.

“It was an honour to spotlight such a wide range of incredible companies at the inaugural Global Procurement & Supply Chain Awards,” said Glen White, CEO of BizClik, Procurement Magazine and Supply Chain Digital.

“At a time where it is crucial that companies are getting their global sourcing, risk & resilience and technology strategies right, it's important to celebrate the successes of those who have implemented and developed the key supply chain, procurement and logistics programs, especially when it has a positive impact on sustainable supply chains in the future.

“To host the awards during Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE London is an incredible moment for the sector to celebrate, we encourage many more companies to enter our Awards for 2025. 

“Thanks to every company that entered - it's important that you stay focused, motivated and continuously innovative and I am excited to see so much more of Generative AI when we meet again in a year.

"And a Big Congratulations to every company who entered, those that are highly commended and of course to our 14 winners – we appreciate your input more than you know.”

The Global Logistics Award

Recognising companies that exhibit outstanding expertise in managing complex global logistics operations with excellence and innovation.

• How has the company demonstrated excellence in managing complex global logistics operations, including transportation, warehousing, and distribution?
• What innovative strategies or technologies has the company implemented to optimise its global logistics network and increase operational efficiency?
• How has the company effectively navigated regulatory complexities, customs procedures, and international trade agreements to ensure smooth and timely delivery of goods?
• How has the company showcased exceptional supply chain visibility, risk management, and cost optimisation in its global logistics practices?

Shortlisted companies included:

• KlearNow.AI
• Nando's Limited
• SGS Maine Pointe
• Smith & Associates

Highly Commended: KlearNow.AI & Nando’s Limited 

In the ever-evolving landscape of global logistics, two companies have emerged as frontrunners, showcasing innovative approaches to supply chain management. KlearNow.AI and Nando's Limited have both demonstrated excellence in navigating the complexities of international trade, albeit through markedly different strategies.

KlearNow.AI's flagship product, KlearHub, serves as a global customs control tower, offering unprecedented visibility into trade processes. This software-driven approach automates customs documentation and compliance, significantly reducing errors and streamlining procedures. KlearHub's Track & Trace feature provides real-time monitoring of shipments from origin to destination, encompassing trade documents, port activities, and customs clearance status. This level of transparency has proven invaluable for multinational companies seeking to optimise their logistics operations.

Conversely, Nando's Limited has focused on building a robust network of industry experts and partnerships. The company has cultivated relationships with regulatory bodies such as the Department of Trade and Industry in South Africa and the British High Commission in Nairobi, leveraging these connections to navigate complex customs markets effectively. Nando's has also secured long-term shipping contracts, including guaranteed vessel space, through a two-decade-long partnership with a key shipper.

Both companies have made significant strides in cost optimisation. KlearHub's in-platform billing allows users to view shipment invoices and payment statuses directly, while Nando's reports keeping warehousing and distribution costs below inflation rates. The two firms have also prioritised risk management, with KlearHub offering built-in clocks and dashboards to monitor demurrage and detention, and Nando's establishing a dedicated control tower for end-to-end operational activity.

As global supply chains continue to face unprecedented challenges, the contrasting approaches of KlearNow.AI and Nando's Limited offer valuable insights into the diverse strategies being employed to enhance efficiency, visibility, and resilience in international logistics.

The Global Procurement & Supply Chain Awards 2024

Thanks to our esteemed panel of industry leaders who judged the awards:

• Jim Townsend, VP of Property & Procurement at Asda
• Alisa Bornstein, Chief Procurement Officer at Visa
• Daniel Weise, Managing Director and Senior Partner at Boston Consulting Group
• Benn Godfrey, Vice President of Procurement at Rolls Royce
• Roger Waring, Head of Procurement at UK Power Networks
• Jacqui Rock, Chief Commercial Officer at NHS England
• David Loseby, Professor of Research Impact in Supply Chain Management at Leeds University Business School
• Sheri Hinish, Principal/Senior Partner, Global Consulting Sustainability Technology and Ecosystems Leader at EY
• Brooke DiNatale, SVP of Global Treasury Solutions at Mastercard

The full list of awards categories for 2024 is:

• Procurement Transformation Award
• Digital Supply Chain
• Global Logistics Award
• Supplier Diversity Award
• Supply Chain Innovation
• Supply Chain Sustainability
• Procurement Technology
• Procurement Consultancy
• Future Leader
• Executive of the Year
• Project of the Year
• Lifetime Achievement
• Social Enterprise
• Start-Up

Essential diary dates for 2024 and 2025…

Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE continues to expand its repertoire of events, with more to come in 2024 and 2025. Discover our essential diary dates below.

2024 diary dates:

• Manufacturing & Mobility LIVE | 6 November 2024

2025 diary dates: 

• Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE Singapore | 11 February 2025
• Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE: Scope 3 | 5-6 March 2025
• Manufacturing & Mobility LIVE | 5-6 March 2025
• Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE Dubai | 29 April 2025
• Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE Chicago | 4-5 June 2025
• Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE London | 23-24 September 2025
• Procurement & Supply Chain Awards | 24 September 2025
• Manufacturing & Mobility LIVE Chicago | 4 November 2025

Make sure you check out the latest edition of Procurement Magazine and also sign up to our global conference series - Procurement & Supply Chain 2024.

Procurement Magazine is a BizClik brand.