Maybe it’s just a personal perception, in 2022, are we perhaps looking forward less to a great present for Christmas, but more to reflective days together with family or friends? Isn’t a Christmas dinner together with a glowing Christmas tree in a warm apartment the wish of many? And maybe a little snow outside?

This year was again full of challenges for many people, companies, and buyers. And our thoughts are with all people worldwide who are suffering from war, hunger, and repressive measures.

We, as a purchasing and supply chain consultancy, have worked with our clients in the purchasing and materials management departments to meet the challenges and find solutions. As a result, we have been able to secure supply chains, build new ones, and strengthen proven ones. We have also been able to convince more and more customers to already establish sustainability as a top issue in their companies. These companies have thus taken the first step toward gaining a competitive advantage. However, there are still many tasks to be completed before sustainability goals are implemented and take effect. Only small changes per company, but in total an important contribution to the future challenges.

And purchasing and supply chain departments in particular must therefore develop new evaluation and procurement strategies. Structures and processes in sourcing, logistics and stockpiling will be redefined and subject to fundamental change. If this is initiated consistently and at an early stage by companies, Europe and the companies doing business there will gain a locational advantage and will probably even be able to expand it. It is up to all of us to rise to this challenge, because it will not come as a surprise – just as Christmas does not every year…….

We look forward to some reflective days with family and friends to fill up the tank again and to work together with our customers on the challenges next year as well. Our employee with the longest distance home on 12/23 can listen to „Driving home for Christmas“ 84 times, we wish him a safe trip and reflective days.

We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a good start into a healthy and successful year 2023.