SC21 programme recognises excellence in the defence and aerospace supply chains

SC21 programme recognises excellence in the defence and aerospace supply chains

The Supply Chains for the 21st Century (SC21) programme, which is designed to accelerate the competitiveness of the aerospace and defence industry by raising the performance of its supply chains, has honoured 24 UK-based companies for their operational excellence.

As part of the SC21 Task Force conference at the Manufacturing Technology Centre in Coventry, the companies were recognised with Bronze, Silver and Gold awards.

Wincanton Group Ltd (Bicester unit) was presented with the Gold award, making it only the second business in the programme to have met the stringent standards required. To merit a Gold award, companies must meet performance targets for quality (over 99.9 per cent) and delivery (over 99 per cent) on a five-year rolling average.

Chis Fenton, Managing Director of Industrial and Transport at Wincanton Group Ltd, commented that the organisation is delighted to be the recipients of the SC21 Gold award, adding:  “We recognise the benefits of following the structure, driving cultural change across the business [and] improving our capabilities. By meeting the standards of the SC21 programme, we are able to deliver efficient supply chain solutions to customers, and receiving this recognition only enhances our reputation.”

SC21 has over 760 participants that supply major clients, including Airbus, Bombardier, Rolls Royce and Thales. The programme is based on companies following a framework for achieving and maintaining set criteria within key areas of their industries.

Paul Everitt, CEO of ADS Group, said that sustainable and competitive supply chains are highly important to the continual success of the aerospace and defence industries, and the SC21 programme gives companies a practical and concise framework for increasing productivity and efficiency.

He added: “Congratulations to all of the award winners, especially Wincanton Group Ltd for achieving Gold. It is fantastic to see so many companies receiving awards -- a clear reflection of industry’s commitment to improving capabilities within the supply chain and good economic news given the high-skill, high-value employment it provides.”