The Advanced Applications Specialist talks to the Supply Chain Briefing about fuel economy, reduction in waste, Brexit and decision-makers not making decisions
Tell us about your company, products and services.
Still UK are a subsidiary of the Global Manufacturer Kion, offering a full range of leading edge MHE from pallet trucks through to full automation. We cover all elements of the marketplace, from outright purchase through all variations on finance and service support that the modern customer expects.
Still is a nationwide provider for the UK, supporting all levels of the market from the single unit refurbished equipment customers to international blue chip multi-unit clients.
We have for decades been the pioneers of fuel economy and reduction in waste in all its shapes.
What have been the biggest challenges the supply chain sector has faced over the past 12 months?
Uncertainty in the political arena over Brexit and job security, as well as the stability of a flexible workforce. The multimodal model seems to have been tested.
And what have been the biggest opportunities?
To be able to offer supply chains a degree of security with new technology being available and more affordable, allowing companies to automate and reduce the risks of the workforce taking flight.
What is the biggest priority for the supply chain sector in 2018?
To try to manage increasing costs and unnecessary expenses, while keeping their business moving forward.
What are the main trends you are expecting to see in the market in 2018?
More mergers and acquisitions within the 3 & 4 PL sectors, as size really does matter.
What technology is going to have the biggest impact on the market this year?
Anything that enables fuel costs to be managed and waste reduced.
In 2020 we’ll all be talking about…?
We will still be talking about automation and autonomous vehicles because they will be that much closer to being a daily reality.
Which person in, or associated with, the supply chain sector would you most like to meet? The real team behind John Lewis & Waitrose.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learnt about the sector?
The speed of change for a sound idea being adopted by almost all sectors.
You go to the bar at the Total Supply Chain Summit – what’s your tipple of choice?
Something Scottish.
What’s the most exciting thing about your job?
There really are no two days the same; we get to see all aspects of the supply chain from the good the bad and the indifferent
Hopefully we can influence the bad and the indifferent to strive to be as good as the very best through adopting best practice and investing in effective equipment.
And what’s the most challenging?
Those decision makers who don’t, won’t or can’t make a decision
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Keep it simple – everybody understands simple.
