17th July 2024
Integris, a leader in composite manufacturing, has significantly enhanced its global purchasing capabilities under the guidance of Franck Magloire, VP of Strategic Purchasing and Supply.
With over seven years of experience at Integris, Franck has overseen the transformation of the company’s purchasing strategies, evolving from a local to a global focus. This shift has enabled Integris to optimize its supplier base, streamline procurement processes, and enhance operational efficiency.
Initially responsible for purchasing activities solely within France, Franck expanded his role to encompass a global scope as Integris recognized the need for a unified purchasing strategy. The company found that it was sourcing similar materials from the same suppliers across its various international sites.
"We decided to create a position for a purchasing director with a global scope to make sure we could rationalize the number of suppliers. This strategic move allowed Integris to leverage its purchasing power on a global scale while maintaining the operational agility needed to respond to local market demands," states Derek Sherwin, Managing Director of Integris France.
The integration of a global purchasing strategy has brought several advantages to Integris. By consolidating its supplier base, the company has achieved better pricing, improved performance, and enhanced lead times. This approach has also fostered innovation in the procurement of raw materials, particularly in ballistic materials, which are central to Integris’s product offerings.
The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges for global supply chains, highlighting the importance of robust supplier relationships. Integris's ability to continue operations during the pandemic underscored the strength of its strategic partnerships.
"The COVID period really showed which suppliers were just suppliers and which companies were actual partners willing to suffer with us to keep the business going. This period allowed Integris to deepen existing relationships and establish new ones, securing a resilient supply chain that has continued to serve the company well," says Magloire.
The post-pandemic era introduced new challenges, such as supply chain disruptions and inflation. Integris adapted by focusing on logistics to maintain the flow of orders and exploring alternative sourcing options. This period also provided valuable insights into the vulnerabilities and strengths of the supply chain at various tiers. Integris gained significant visibility into its suppliers’ operations, which informed its strategic decisions.
Recent global events, including conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, have further emphasized the need for flexibility and creativity in procurement strategies. Integris has responded by diversifying its material sources and exploring new materials that offer better Performance and cost-efficiency.
"We need to keep being agile and creative, both in double sourcing and in exploring new materials. This ongoing adaptability ensures that Integris remains competitive in an ever-changing market," notes Magloire
Integris's commitment to innovation is evident in its response to evolving customer demands. The company is increasingly tasked with developing materials that offer both ballistic resistance and structural integrity, a combination that requires cutting-edge research and collaboration with new partners. This drive for innovation extends to Integris's supplier base, which must continuously evolve to meet new performance criteria.
Integris's strategic approach to global purchasing, spearheaded by Franck Magloire, has positioned the company to navigate complex supply chain challenges effectively. By fostering strong supplier partnerships, leveraging global purchasing power, and remaining agile in the face of change, Integris continues to deliver high-performance materials that meet the evolving needs of its customers.