In today’s world where sustainability and ethical business practices are crucial, our approach to regional sourcing highlights our commitment to continuously try to do things better and more efficiently, to protecting the environment, fostering economic strength, and promoting social responsibility. By intentionally partnering only with component suppliers based in Europe, we are not just making a procurement decision – we are making a strategic choice that delivers multifaceted benefits for our business, our customers, and our planet.
Operational excellence: speed, reliability, and collaboration
Our approach to regional sourcing goes beyond sustainability; it focuses on achieving operational excellence as well. Collaborating with nearby suppliers allows us to tap into benefits that enhance our performance and leads to increased customer satisfaction. Faster and more predictable delivery times enables to be more agile when adapting to market shifts and customer demands.
Being geographically close allows us to build stronger, more impactful partnerships. Our European suppliers are more than just vendors; they are collaborators who share similar cultural and business backgrounds and align with our technological and quality standards.
Our regional sourcing strategy encourages closer collaboration with our suppliers, enabling us together to:
- swiftly prototype and refine product designs
- respond promptly to market needs and developments
- shorten product development timelines.
Reducing our carbon footprint
Transportation is a significant contributor to global carbon emissions and our European sourcing approach directly addresses this challenge. By partnering with suppliers within the Netherlands, Germany and Poland, we reduce the transportation distances for our components (consider the significant reduction in CO2 emissions that results from not having to ship from Asia). And this translates into a substantial reduction in carbon emissions.
Economic and strategic benefits
There are also economic and strategic advantages associated with regional sourcing. Common belief is that regional sourcing is pricier. But, in fact, it offers economic advantages, like:
- reduced transportation costs
- lower costs for holding inventory
- minimized risks related to lengthy and complicated supply chains.
From a strategic standpoint, it also makes sense to operate within European borders for the sake of intellectual property protection, as the laws and regulations here provide strong safeguards.
Social responsibility and ethical considerations
Our regional sourcing is also direct reflection of our commitment to ethical business practices. By choosing European suppliers, we:
- support European economies
- ensure fair labour practices and worker rights
- align with the European standards of social responsibility.
Responsiveness to customer values
More and more, our customers – especially those prioritizing ESG – are looking beyond product specifications. They are looking for partners who demonstrate a commitment to sustainable and responsible business practices. Our regional sourcing strategy speaks directly to these values, showing that we are:
- environmentally conscious
- economically responsible
- socially committed
- transparent in our operations
Every year, our mother organization Enstall publishes a sustainability report highlighting the steps we have taken and will continue to take in the realm of ESG.
Conclusion: a strategic approach to sustainable business
For us, regional sourcing goes beyond just procurement; it represents a wider approach to creating a sustainable, efficient, and responsible business. By focusing on European suppliers, we’re not only enhancing our supply chain but also playing a part in fostering a more sustainable, interconnected, and innovative European business landscape.
As we progress and expand, our dedication to regional sourcing will stay a fundamental aspect of our strategic vision, proving that achieving business success and being environmentally responsible can coexist harmoniously.