Some of you may have followed my recent postings on inflation. Over the past few weeks, I have analyzed the development of inflation in Germany and the USA and presented current opportunities to reduce procurement costs.

Today, let’s talk about the UK.

I won’t go that deep into the analysis but let’s look at the famous Pint Index (the “British version” of the Big Mac Index..just kidding).

The development is scary. Peter explained it well and this also impacts many other areas!

Cheers and a happy weekend. Watch out for the weekly Saturday Supply Chain Madness posting on LinkedIn.

Source: Thanks to James Meads (on LinkedIn) for the inspiration and Peter Donaghy (on X) for the graphic and idea

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The August Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) i.e. shows a promising trend for Procurement pros: “The average prices charged for goods and services increased globally in July at the joint-slowest rate since October 2020″.

Cost-efficient Procurement ensures financial stability and enables investment in innovation and growth amid economic uncertainty. Thus, reducing costs is critical for enhancing an organization’s profitability and operational efficiency. In 2024, cost management has become a top priority for many Procurement teams as it is even more crucial due to rising inflation, global supply chain disruptions, weak economies, and increased competition.

After years of 10%+ increases, it is time to fight back, if you haven’t started yet.

No take it or leave it anymore. It is time to act and end the era of no pushback.

What to do;

Renegotiate contracts to secure lower prices, adjust inventory, explore long-term agreements

Reassess supplier pricing strategies, pass savings to product pricing, and invest in innovation or value-added services.

Collaborate with suppliers to optimize cost structures, ensuring mutual benefits.

Monitor market trends closely to ensure timely responses, maintaining a competitive edge

Selected value levers:

Skills & Human Power: Invest in skills (Negotiation & Cost Management training)

Supplier Consolidation (but understand the supply risk that comes with it)

Demand Management (Involve stakeholders)

Establish a Supplier Negotiation program to achieve better terms

Cost Structure Analysis: Identify opportunities for cost reduction

Strategic Sourcing: Improve your strategic sourcing. Select suppliers that offer the best value rather than just the lowest price.

Category Management: Manage Categories as strategic business units, and efficiency

Risk & Compliance Management: Avoid unplanned costs from unstable supply chains, missing risk monitoring, and not adhering to regulatory

Procurement must play a pivotal role in driving cost reductions across the organization. The combination of supplier consolidation, demand management, strategic sourcing, risk & compliance management, and continuous skill development creates a comprehensive approach to cost management.

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