SAPICS builds excellence in supply chain management, transportation and logistics

Transportation is a vital link in virtually all supply chains. The way in which goods are moved and effective transport management play a critical role in the efficiency of global supply chains. Recognising this, leading supply chain industry body SAPICS is committed to building excellence in individuals and enterprises involved in every component of supply chain management, including transportation and logistics.

Since its foundation in 1966, SAPICS, through its network of authorised education partners, has become the leading provider of superior education and training, internationally-recognised certifications and comprehensive resources for individuals working at all levels in the broad and diverse supply chain management arena, as well as for organisations operating in this sphere. The SAPICS supply chain community includes transport and logistics specialists who leverage the organisation’s offerings to stay abreast of the latest industry developments, trends and technologies, as well as to build skills, share knowledge and network.

Education and skills development

The APICS Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) designation, which is offered in Southern Africa by SAPICS, provides a comprehensive body of knowledge, best practices and standards for those in the logistics, transportation and distribution industries. Graduates gain an in-depth understanding of how to streamline logistics, transportation and distribution, including order management, inventory management and warehouse management. The CLTD designation serves the needs of both professionals and employers by reducing the impact of industry skills gaps, as well as assisting employers in developing the personnel needed to meet customer demand and impact bottom-line results.

Empowering SMMEs

Connecting and empowering small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs), including those in the transportation and logistics industry, is an important focus area for SAPICS. “SMMEs often miss out on the advantages provided by supply chain optimisation – including various efficiency enhancements and cost savings – due to a lack of necessary skills and resources,” says SAPICS president Thato Moloi. He emphasises that SMMEs have a critical role to play in South Africa’s economy as significant providers of employment and drivers of inclusive economic growth. “They do not get adequate support, however, and may find their growth hampered by a shortage of capital, as well as limited access to skills development,” he says. 

“Small businesses have a great deal of responsibilities and considerations to take into account,” Moloi continues. “This frequently leads to critical supply chain functions being overlooked, despite the fact that this can actually make or break the business. It is also crucial to understand that the supply chain is increasingly important in the complex and volatile business environment of the modern world.”

SAPICS has a dedicated team working with both SMMEs and the large corporates that they supply – as well as its network of authorised education partners – to offer accredited skills development opportunities that will deliver mutual benefits and enable job creation.

In addition to contributing to the growth, success and sustainability of small businesses through the provision of education and training, SAPICS aims to be the conduit for big corporates to support SMMEs and participate in the development of their suppliers. So, the organisation would like to take this opportunity to urge corporates across South Africa to sponsor Small Business Hub membership for their suppliers. “By going down this route, businesses can earn Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) points, while simultaneously empowering and uplifting SMMEs and upskilling their own supplier base,” Moloi expands.

The SAPICS SMME Programme includes accredited training for entrepreneurs. This training covers all aspects of business management, with a particularly strong focus on operations management. Warehouse control, inventory replenishment principles, operational planning and scheduling, lean manufacturing principles and supply chain and materials management are among the various certifications offered. 

The programme also includes webinars covering topics like supply chain management, demand planning and sales and operations planning. Case studies and success stories are shared amongst participants, while the programme also offers insights from business leaders and supply chain experts. Furthermore, a SAPICS SMME Support Line is available to provide small business owners with advice and assistance.