SCALA 2008 Logistics Debate

to Challenge Reality of Environmentally Efficient Supply Chains. Are Environmentally Efficient Supply Chains a Reality or a Pipedream? That is the subject of the 2008 SCALA annual logistics debate, supported by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILTUK).

The main sponsors this year are Group Norbert Dentressangle (GND) and other sponsors are BIS, ATMS, Narrow Aisle UK, PDPorts, and Psion. The debate is once again taking place in the superb grounds of Wroxall Abbey, near Coventry, on the evening of 10th July and the organisers once again have the support of the West Midlands region of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport UK.

John Perry, managing Director of SCALA, said “Last year the debate explored whether logisticians would be prepared to think the unthinkable for the sake of the planet. The consensus was that we would have no choice. Now we want to explore the reality of what is happening – who is facing up to the challenge.”

“In the meantime, and faced with unanticipated rising transport and logistics costs, has the environment taken a back seat or have events provided an incentive for greener – and more cost effective – supply chains?” Mr Perry asked.

Four high profile speakers representing retailers, suppliers and environmental groups will debate this issue and then throw discussion open to the 200 top supply chain and logistics professionals who will be attending. This year's speakers are Steve Mulvey, Food Logistics Manager, Marks and Spencer, John Potter – European Supply Chain Director – SC Johnson; Trevor Ashworth – Director of Food & Retail Logistics – Co-Operative Group; Malcolm Wilson – Managing Director UK Logistics – Norbert Dentressangle; and Paul Steedman – Senior Research Fellow – The Food Ethics Council

Following the transport efficiency survey of more than 7500 vehicles conducted on behalf of the Department for Transport, SCALA has been running a series of detailed environmental workshops involving companies involved in the food and drinks supply chain. Participants are from retailers, manufacturers, suppliers and logistics companies. Some of the results from these workshops will be discussed at the debate.

Mr Perry told us that the debate will get views and ideas from as many logisticians as possible. That is why this event is in the form of a debate where delegates can express their views during the subsequent debate.

This summer evening at Wroxall is an excellent networking event and begins with Pimms on the lawn followed by the debate and supper. This provides an excellent opportunity for the top supply chain and logistics professionals to meet and discuss important issues in a relaxed environment.

Reasons to attend:-

• Learn about leading edge approaches to logistics and the environment

• Have your say – are environmentally supply chains a reality of a pipelines?

• Network with managers in a similar situation to you; your customers; your competitors!