In recent years, the general situation in the agricultural machinery industry has been characterised by continuous change and ever-increasing requirements. Competition between agricultural machinery manufacturers, the increasing concentration in the supplier market and technical innovations are just some of the general conditions which affect the partnership between CLAAS and its suppliers.
One of the most fundamental tasks of the purchasing department is to shape and direct supplier relationships in the long term. In this context, CLAAS is attempting to move from traditional/conventional supplier relationships towards actively managed "value creation partnerships". To achieve this, we need excellent suppliers who are very well positioned to develop technical solutions/innovations and master complex production and logistics processes. The selection and further development of these partners is an important challenge in ensuring a successful future.
Our supplier development activities are based on the "LEAN" concept, consisting of the following principles:
- Optimisation and intensification of communication between both parties
- Introduction and transfer of widely applicable methods and tools
- Active supplier support to build up and develop expertise
- Joint usage of expertise through greater integration
The use of a system, which is tested in practice (step-by-step analysis) and has an extensive toolbox, forms the basis for competent and rapid supplier development.