Mexico has long been a popular destination for nearshoring, and the trend is only expected to continue in the years to come. There are a number of factors driving this growth, including Mexico’s proximity to the United States, its large and growing workforce, and its competitive labor costs. In addition, Mexico has been investing heavily…
Negotiation is an essential skill in business and life. It’s about finding common ground, reaching agreements, and building strong relationships. Last week we had a webinar where I interviewed Mike Wynn, APD’s lead for Sourcing Optimization, about the application of behavioral science to commercial negotiations. Prior to joining APD, Mike trained sales professionals on the…
“Companies don’t invest in training for the education – they invest to get a return”, someone told me that 30 years ago. This insight, shared with me three decades ago, holds even greater significance today, particularly for purchasing departments. The role of purchasing in determining profitability is unparalleled, placing them at a distinctive position within…
Negotiating in a global purchasing environment can be rewarding but also prevents challenges if you are not aware of different global negotiating practices. When working with different cultures, customs, and business practices, it is important to adapt negotiation strategies to drive successful outcomes. Here are some tips APD recommends that will help you navigate the…
Nearshoring is a trend that consists of companies moving their operations to nearby countries, instead of doing it to distant countries. Mexico is one of the most attractive countries for nearshoring, thanks to its geographical location, its skilled workforce and its low costs. In recent years, according to Economy Department of Mexico, Mexico has experienced…
Negotiating is an important skill for everyone in business, but it’s an essential skill for buyers, purchasing managers, and business leaders. Skills such as preparing for a negotiation, active listening, and applying the right negotiation tactics for the situation are fundamental to basic success. Skills that give negotiators an advantage are more advanced – the…
We recently organized an Executive Roundtable where manufacturing purchasing leaders and c-level executives came together to discuss potential cost saving opportunities. The event was highly insightful, with over a dozen participants from diverse industries sharing their successful (and unsuccessful) cost saving implementation experiences in the current business environment. Additionally, APD presented four real client projects…
Cost models can play a crucial role in driving successful outcomes for purchasing departments. Used effectively, they help drive optimal design, reduce the time required to bring products to market, and help companies succeed. Here’s how cost models contribute to achieving favorable outcomes in purchasing: Supplier selection: Cost models enable purchasing professionals to evaluate potential…
In the face of global challenges, such as supply chain disruptions and shifting market dynamics, manufacturing OEMs are seeking alternative solutions to meet their production demands. One country that has emerged as an attractive option for opening production facilities with shorter delivery routes is Mexico. In this blog, we will explore the significance of strong…
Identifying and delivering on the needs of stakeholders is an important element in any successful strategic sourcing project. Without appropriate stakeholder input, you’ll be left to guess at what exactly is required for a supplier to meet the needs of your internal customers. Unintended consequences are likely, and can erode the value that your project…