Lafarge South Africa honoured their suppliers at the annual Lafarge Supplier of the Year Awards ceremony. “It’s that time of year again when we are proud to host an event honouring our top suppliers – companies which have provided us with consistently excellent service. Lafarge encourages loyalty and long lasting, meaningful relationships, and we believe that our suppliers play a vital role in this. We thank them for their commitment,” said Thierry Legrand, CEO: Lafarge South Africa.

The theme for the day was Sustainable Competitive Advantage. “We are living in a changing world and as such need to maintain our competitiveness,” commented Alan Scott, Head of Procurement: Lafarge South Africa.

The highlight of the day was the awards ceremony where suppliers were recognised in five different categories: Lafarge Supplier of the Year 2012 in gold, silver and bronze, as well as Most Improved Supplier of the Year for 2012, and the Most Improved Customer Performance for 2012. “We measure all suppliers throughout the year against four major performance criteria – business compatibility, financial performance, customer performance and leadership and growth,” said Scott.

The Lafarge Supplier of the Year 2012 went to Afripack, while the silver award went to Cargo Carriers and bronze was awarded to Elf Trans.  Most Improved Supplier of the Year went to Eagle Construction & Mining Supplies. The Most Improved Customer Performance for 2012 went to Transnet Freight Rail.

Among several guest speakers, political analyst Daniel Silke delivered the keynote address, which highlighted current critical issues facing South Africa. Lafarge extends its congratulations to all participants and winners.