Interlink the supply chain with blockchain technology
Blockchain technology goes by many names; game-changer, disruptive, futuristic and impenetrable. Names all well-deserved and valid, writes y Johan Potgieter, cluster industrial software lead at Schneider Electric. Initially associated with cryptocurrency, blockchain...
Intelligent dispatching can save businesses money
In the months leading up to August, more than 750 South African businesses closed their doors and went into liquidation. While that represents a decrease in closures from the same period last year, it illustrates how fragile business can be, particularly in an economy...
AI could strengthen pharmaceutical supply chains to save lives
Can artificial intelligence (AI) predict a drug shortage before it starts? This was one of the themes explored by a panel of experts in a critical discussion at the recent SAPICS Conference, Africa's leading event for the supply chain profession. Panellists Matt...
ERP systems transform wholesale operations
The wholesale industry, a crucial intermediary between manufacturers and retailers, faces many challenges in today's fast-paced business environment. From managing extensive inventories to optimising supply chains and meeting customer demands, wholesalers must...
Accelerating transformation to keep up with next-generation supply chain
The global supply chain is experiencing a myriad of disruptions including geopolitical tensions, price increase of raw materials, natural disasters, shortage of key components, increased backlogs, and the rapid technological developments such as the explosive rise of...
Supply chain professionals gear up for Cape Town event
Hundreds of supply chain practitioners from across Africa and around the world will meet in Cape Town next week for the annual SAPICS Conference. Hosted by the Professional Body for Supply Chain Management (SAPICS), this year's gathering represents a vital opportunity...
Save the planet with principles of circularity
As our natural resources dwindle and carbon emissions rise, circular supply chains are becoming more critical than ever. According to author and circular supply chain guru Deborah Dull, we can save the planet using the principles of circularity. Dull is the author of...
Supply chain security vital for SA’s digital-first financial system
South Africa's banking sector has always been characterised by forward-thinking mindsets. Like the rest of the continent, digital platforms and services play a crucial role in offering financial services to a majorly underserviced or "unbanked" population. By Monica...
Conferences examine Africa’s potential
Africa's doors are open for business, with huge untapped potential across its vast markets. The procurement and supply chain professions have a pivotal role to play in Africa's growth and success as they can drive collaboration, partnerships and cross-border trade,...
Supply chain conference will explore the role of AI
The last 10 years have seen phenomenal growth in tools like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, which are being used successfully in a range of applications in the supply chain, including demand forecasting, risk, inventory and quality management, and...
Don’t miss the deadline for Supply Chain Excellent Awards
Supply chain professionals wishing to have their achievements recognised and help to raise the standards of supply chain management across Africa have just two weeks left to enter this year's prestigious Africa Supply Chain Excellence Awards. With entries closing on...
How to take a mine’s logistics chain from good to great
With the South African economy heavily reliant on commodities and an energy crisis in Europe, thousands of mineral-laden trucks make daily runs to the country's ports. By Justin Coetzee, CEO of GoMetro Commodity traders need to know where their ore is, fleet managers...