Procurement Intelligence Unit

Not only has the recession slowed economic growth but it has also stalled environmental development projects. The value of new renewable investments fell to US$162 billion in 2009 from US$173 billion in the previous year. Most countries are setting ambitious targets for increased renewable energy uptake, but the question remains how will we power the future? more

An experiment in the North Sea has successfully brought modern warehouse management techniques into the fisheries supply chain. Swedish fishermen attached radio frequency identification (RFID) to store, track and monitor cod deliveries. The potential savings are not just small fry. more

The procurement function has dramatically changed from its previous role of purchasing and transactional compliance. Procurement departments are now strategic agents that seek to align best practice within the business. Analysts, buyers and category managers also need to grow to meet these new needs. more

Back in 2008 research by the Procurement Leaders Network revealed that as many as 95% of CPOs would welcome an independent benchmarking tool – a staggeringly high figure which illustrates not only the importance of benchmarking as a means of measuring and delivering results, but also the frustration that exists in the wider procurement community. more

The European Commission has recently approved British Airways' merger with Spanish carrier Iberia, as well its partnership with American Airlines for cross-Atlantic flight scheduling. However, the air industry has been dogged by price collusion, corruption and scandals across the world, resulting in increase costs for air cargo shipping. Marketing liberalisation and growth does not seem to be easing logistics operations and it seems unlikely that the clear skies will be clean skies. more

Risk has been a watchword over the past two years as firms have grappled with the some of the most turbulent economic conditions in a generation. This focus has led to an increased focus on insurance – but are companies armed with the information they need to secure the right deal at the right price? more

I recently acted as lead analyst at a PIU Facilities Management Workshop in London. Bringing together some of the leading FM talent, the PIU aimed to condense some of the cutting-edge thinking in the field of facilities management. more