SUPPLY CHAIN
Its work in creating specialised adhesives is one example of the company ’ s high levels of innovation .
“ In the automotive industry there is a big push for improved fuel economy ,” Simon explains . “ Automobile companies are interested in reducing the weight of the vehicle , so they ’ re beginning to substitute mechanical fasteners – which are made of metal – with structural adhesives .
“ At Avery Dennison , we are experts at developing specialised adhesives that can be coated in what we would call a substrate , that you can peel and stick .”
The power of procurement Simon ’ s procurement role has been a vital component to these ongoing changes , because Avery Dennison integrates all functions into the business . There are two fundamentals which the procurement division tries to fulfil as a function , and these are to be a strategic partner to the business , and to be a valuable thought partner .
“ Integration is about the way we are structured ; the way we perform our roles ,” Simon explains . “ We want to be close to our internal stakeholders . We also want to be as valuable to our suppliers as we can be , and to fulfil the biggest promises www . supplychain . com 73