Saturday, January 15, 2011

Supply Chains Can Rock -- does yours?

Who says Supply Chains aren't cool?!

If they're green, they are. Check out Supply & Demand Chain Executive for the 2010 Green Supply Chain Awards. CSR, gov't regs and [my personal favorite] Public Pressure have converged to affect a growing trend in sustainable supply chain strategies.

Let's face it, when industry bodies begin creating awards for it, it's more than a flash in the pan.  There's much to be learned from, and respected about, the companies featured in this listing -- and their marketing teams, who are smart enough to realize the brand benefit in proudly touting your green business practices.

Why would anyone care about my company's supply chain policies, you ask?  Given the option, the vast majority of customers will select the sustainable company over other suppliers -- even if they have to pay a little (emphasis on "little") more for the product or service.

So, the moral of the story is:  Tout your sustainability strategies!  If your market doesn't know how hard you're working to become a sustainable enterprise, you're losing a key differentiator. (That's pretty much the same thing as turning your back on new sales).

... just thinking out loud.