Supply chain integrity refers to the visibility and traceability of products within the supply chain. It’s a process of understanding all of the vendors and their suppliers, all down the line, who contribute to your operations and processes.

Suppliers represent ‘Scope 3’ of carbon footprints, embedding in products up to 90% of emissions of greenhouse gases.

Protecting the integrity of the supply chain requires attention to quality assurance, product and service safety, counterfeit prevention strategies, technology licensing and export control compliance, and customer trust. When we consider sustainability, we are thinking for example about emissions, water, efficiency, and ethical practices.

Supply chain innovation refers to implementing improved strategies, technologies, processes, and practices to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, mitigate risks, and improve overall performance. It encompasses a continuous pursuit of creative and efficient ways to optimize every aspect of the supply chain, from sourcing and production to distribution and delivery.

Supply chain innovation is frequently required in order to address its integrity.

Supply chain innovation can bring greater efficiency, improved quality, reduced costs, decreased risk and better cashflow. Supply chain integrity is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic necessity.

Consumers are increasingly conscious of the ethical implications of their purchases, making integrity a key factor in their decision-making process. In a global economy, supply chains are complex networks across borders and stakeholder groups. Suppliers, distributors and retailers are all critical – any compromise can bring severe repercussions, from financial losses to reputational damage and legal consequences.

Risks include fraud, corruption, and other unethical practices leading to expensive disruption. For example, a company performing thorough due diligence can avoid finding itself embroiled in range of scandals from modern slavery to environmental pollution. These incidents harm reputation and lead to customer boycotts.

Operationally, integrity ensures supply chains run smoothly and efficiently. Well-integrated suppliers are more likely to getting things right and on-time. That means savings and contented customers.

Our team have decades’ experience supporting sustainability across a wide range of organisations and issues. We support integrity and innovation across your supply chain through learning processes that promote the following:

Transparency: ensuring ESG information such as on sourcing, work practices and environmental protection, is accessible to all stakeholders.

Accountability: ensuring clear policies and consequences are in place for stakeholders and that these are effectively communicated.

Collaboration: facilitating suppliers to work together and with other stakeholders to set and enforce ethical standards and find new ways to address hot-spots.