



WITH GRATITUDE TO OUR AWARDS SPONSORS










Sue Tomic
SCLAA Chair
Managing Director, Chain Consulting Services, based in Sydney.
On behalf of the Supply Chain & Logistics Association of Australia (SCLAA), it was a pleasure to welcome everyone to the 2024 ASCLA’s - an event which has emerged as one of the most important occasions for our Industry. We were delighted to be able to celebrate the highest of achievements and innovation.
SCLAA had been hosting these awards for over 63 years, and the 2024 event brought together over 500 attendees, representing more than 200 companies across all sectors of supply chain and logistics (SCL).
As the largest cross-sector association in the industry, SCLAA continues to foster connections and collaboration across the supply chain, integrating government, education, and solution providers offering cutting-edge technologies to address industry challenges.
The ASCLAs are an integral part of this collaboration, representing the largest cross sector gathering in the industry - from those who work in shipping, ports, transport and warehousing, to importers, exporters, freight forwarders, and retailers.
Plus those very important sectors that support the industry - IT and software providers, automation specialists, education and training institutions, legal, financial, industrial property and infrastructure specialists... many of whom are our partners.
As an industry association, we measure our success on how well we foster connection and collaboration - industry with government, education, and solution providers - who have cutting edge technology to solve industry issues or create the solutions that we need.
Whilst the ASCLAs are our largest annual event, 2024 has been a big year for our Association, since July last year, we have already delivered over 75 events nationally with over 4000 attendees, not including ASCLA 2024.
We continue to partner with industry conference organisers in and around the country, including CeMat, Megatrans, Akolade, Supply Chain Channel and Forefront.
During the year, we have also completed our very first acquisitionan online platform called Supply Chain Partners.
Founded by Dr Sharyn Grant, this acquisition has assisted with the expansion of our global membership base, across 60 countries and on all continents (except Antarctica).
Supply Chain Partners provides 3 incredibly important benefits:
1. A products and services directory
2. The ability for direct member to member connectivity
3. A much needed industry specific jobs board
If you have not joined us yet, now is the time as, for a limited time, SCLAA members will enjoy Complimentary membership to the Supply Chain Partners platform.
SCLAA will continue to provide the opportunities for industry and its people to gather, network and exchange ideas. Being part of our association, fills the basic need to be a part of something more, a tribe of like minded individuals, working to make change that lead to far reaching improvements for industry overall.
We will continue to be a Disruptor in what we offer and I urge all of you to be the same. Think and do different. Disruption leads to opportunities for growth, out of the box thinking, and of course, innovation… That’s why we gathered together for ASCLA 2024, to celebrate disruptors and innovators, and recognise their achievements.
At the centre of it all are people. It’s the people in SCL that perform miracles every day that add to Australia’s economic wellbeing and GDP. It’s the people in our association that deliver to our members and partners - so of course I also have a number of Thank You messages for our people.
Our Corporate Partners and all our Members - I thank you all for your ongoing support. Without you, we could not do what we do.
In case you aren’t aware, SCLAA is a Not for Profit volunteer Association. We operate Divisional committees in each state, facilitating networking events, seminars, webinars. The passion and dedication of all our committee members cannot be applauded enough, so a big thank you for all that you do alongside your day jobs.
Of course ASCLA 2024 would not be possible without the support and hard work of many. A heartfelt thank you to our Keynote Speaker, Christine Holgate, CEO of Team Global Express, for her inspirational speech on the evening. Also to our ASCLA Events Committee, Chaired by NSW State Director, Cathy-Anne Jones. Thank you also to our Partner Manager Megan White, Secretariat Sam Varano, our admin team Fran De Klerk and Vicki De Thomasis, and to Lauren Cass, marketing guru extraordinaire, for all their many hours of work and dedication.
Thank you also to Nigel Edwards and the Judging Committee for their expertise and tenacity in choosing the worthy recipients of tonight’s awards, including 2 new categories - Transport & Logistics Excellence and Workplace Health & Safety Award.
Last but certainly not least, tonight’s awards sponsors, without whom this evening truly would not be possible.
On behalf of the SCLAA Board, I would like to congratulate all the Finalists, Award Winners and the Highly Commended for their remarkable achievements. Their dedication and innovation exemplify the best of the supply chain and logistics industry.
The SCLAA is pleased to congratulate the below winners, finalists and highly commended.
ASCL recognises that any startup company faces a tough road. This award recognises those tenacious individuals and companies who push through from inception to success.
Award Inaugurated 2021.
Extolla Nexobot
Sendable
Shelfbot
SKUTOPIA
WINNER Individual Award Sponsor
Sendable is recognised as Australia’s first-ever social enterprise third-party logistics provider. Sendable has become a national leader with operations in seven strategic locations across Australia.
Currently, 78% of their workforce consists of individuals with disabilities, making them a remarkable example for the industry in reshaping norms and attitudes towards disability employment.
Tonight, we warmly acknowledge your dedication to integrating a social mission with high-quality logistics services.
Congratulations Sendable!
SKUTOPIA is Australia’s pioneering urban robotic micro fulfilment centre (MFC) and shipping platform is dedicated to reshaping the logistics landscape in Australia.
CRITERIA
Training, education and development remains a vital part of allowing knowledge to be utilised for new ideas and supply chain improvements to be discovered and then implemented. This award will be presented to a company that can best demonstrate their commitment, application and results of providing training, education and development of their people.
Dedicated to the late Professor Peter Gilmour Award Inaugurated 2002.
WINNER
NSW
This award recognises TAFE NSW’s commitment to developing courses that equip students with the skills needed for the future of supply chain operations and management.
TAFE NSW’s courses also provide valuable pathway opportunities for young people, women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, people with disabilities, and those in regional and rural areas.
The results from TAFE NSW speak for themselves: the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) Student Outcomes Survey shows that their graduates are highly sought after.
Congratulations, TAFE NSW!
FINALISTS
Strategix Training Group & Programmed TMX Transform
Brian Kaunda Chikwava - Murdoch University WA TAFE NSW
CRITERIA
ASCL Environmental Excellence Award recognises corporate leadership or projects within our industry contributing to environmental corporate responsibility, the circular economy and/or protecting the environment.
Dedicated to Mr Ken Pike, Award Inaugurated 1966.
Adiona ANC Delivers CEVA Logistics
MAERSK Netlogix
Prological SKUTOPIA
Smartways Logistics
Winning Services
Zilch Forwarding
Individual Award Sponsor
EQT | EXETER
Winning Services has established itself as a leader and founding board member of the Coalition for Sustainable Solutions (CoFoSS) by offering a free removal and recycling program for old appliances, mattresses, and the packaging of products sold through Winning Group’s retail business entities. Diverting an impressive 12,900 tonnes of materials from landfills!
Congratulations Winning Services!
This award focuses on digital innovations that improves or offers a new way of delivering value to the supply chain using Big Data, IT and BI. Award nominees will demonstrate where applying use of existing or new digital technologies, methodologies or frameworks have provided significant improvements to their management of information and/or their supply chain processes.
Award Inaugurated 2021.
Adiona and StarTrack Courier
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners
Coles Group and Bluesky Creations
The Sussan Group and Explorate
Team Global Express
WINNER
The partnership between the Sussan Group, a leading Australian fashion retailer, and Explorate, an innovative digital freight forwarder, marks a significant advancement in supply chain efficiency.
This collaboration allows them to utilize their resources in new ways, shifting their focus from merely executing tasks to engaging in proactive planning.
The digital platform also supports comprehensive carbon calculations for every shipment, enabling the Sussan Group to measure and reduce Scope 3 emissions—a crucial step in their pursuit of B Corp accreditation.
Congratulations Sussan Group and Explorate!
Our team of logistic consulting experts dig deep to identify the root of complex problems and focus on delivering tangible results for clients.
Operational excellence in logistics has become the standard with ever shorter lead times, a high expectation on service levels to customers, disparate IT systems architectures and the permanent constraint of cost optimisation. These complex requirements are further compounded by the impact of ESG concerns (Environment, Social, Governance).
In this context, logistics must be reinvented to guarantee the service promise at the best cost and contribute to a company’s competitiveness.
On a strategic level, operational excellence in logistics requires the regular and continuous redesign of the service strategy towards customers (internal/external) and the optimisation of distribution networks to minimise cost-to-serve.
& Co
is a global management consultancy that specialises in operations strategy and transformation.
Its expertise spans supply chain planning, manufacturing, logistics, procurement, finance, and shared services, working together with clients to transform their businesses and generate real change.
On an operational level, the optimisation of warehousing and transport operations involves thinking about automation / mechanisation of warehouses and optimisation of execution processes. There is also the consideration of the use of new digital technologies (IoT, big data, RPA, robots) that offer an innovative way to challenge established schemes, better plan resources, industrialise logistics practices, accelerate change and allow a performance leap in terms of productivity, quality, and customer service.
Our team of logistic consulting experts dig deep to identify the root of complex problems and focus on delivering tangible results for clients. The menu bar on this page provides more detail on a selection of the logistics challenges we regularly work on.
We apply a combination of technical expertise, operational experience, business knowledge and common sense to help our clients solve logistical issues and deliver lasting results. Our positive, flexible and personal approach, with challenge where needed, ensures buy-in at all levels of our clients’ businesses and a positive outcome.
CRITERIA
The supply chain world is changing quickly and physical technology is making a huge impact. This award recognises that, in addition to data management, significant impact are occurring through devices, robotics, automation, wearables and other emerging physical technologies.
Award Inaugurated 2021.
FINALISTS
Microlise
Portalink Pty Ltd SKUTOPIA Starshipit
Individual Award Sponsor
Based in Adelaide, Portalink is a leading technology innovator specializing in advanced document automation solutions. These solutions enhance the efficiency and accuracy of large and diverse enterprises across North America, Asia Pacific, and Europe.
Their advanced technology facilitates up to 98% zerotouch processing of purchase orders, invoices, and freight documents.
Portalink’s commitment to innovation, market diversification, and strategic partnerships has solidified its position as a dynamic player in the supply chain document automation industry.
WITRON has developed Australia’s largest fully automated Coles distribution center (ADC), located in Redbank, Queensland.
This project represents the most significant automated warehousing and distribution operation in the Southern Hemisphere, covering 170,000 square meters and capable of servicing 219 supermarkets across Queensland and Northern New South Wales.
The Redbank ADC can process up to four million cases per week, equating to approximately 1.6 billion sales units annually. This efficiency is achieved through a smart combination of high-bay pallet storage, ergonomic picking stations, an advanced packing pattern algorithm, and a fully automated case handling system.
Congratulations Portalink & WITRON!
CRITERIA
In recognition of global supply chains, the ASCL International Supply Chain Award is given to a Company, Institution or an Individual that operates internationally. Either: an Australian entity with international impact an international entity with impact on the supply chain industry in Australia; or an Australian company impacting supply chain internationally.
Award Inaugurated 2016.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: TASTE FOOD DISTRIBUTORS
Argon & Co
Globelink International
Logility
MAERSK
Taste Food Distributors
WINNER
Maersk Oceania’s global shipping operations were significantly impacted by a severe drought caused by El Niño, which was worsened by climate change, leading to historic low water levels in the Panama Canal during the 2024 season. With 40% of U.S. container traffic passing through the canal, this disruption posed a serious threat to Australian businesses and economies along the U.S. East Coast. Our $77 billion in exports to the USA depends on timely cargo deliveries.
To address this challenge, Maersk utilized Panama’s 76 km railway between Balboa and Manzanillo, creating a Land-Bridge that allowed them to bypass the congested and drought-affected canal passage. This strategy helped keep cargo moving for Australian exporters and importers without disruption.
Congratulations to Maersk Oceania for maintaining our export economy!
Taste Food Distributors is proud to have weathered the storm with integrity and innovation, demonstrating that with the right mindset and strategies, even the most daunting challenges can be transformed into pathways for success.
ASCLA 2025 held in Melbourne - Venue TBA
We are inviting companies and organisations to become part of the celebrations of the prestigious Australian Supply Chain & Logistics Awards for 2025.
This is an opportunity to align your brand with excellence, innovation, and leadership. Showcase your organisation, strengthen brand awareness to industry leaders and be an Ambassador of Excellence by recognising the highest achievers in the supply chain and logistics Industry. Solidify your position as a champion of progress and innovation; a partner driving our industry forward.
Sponsorship inclusions and inclusion quantities vary between packages.
PLATINUM SPONSOR [Exclusive] GOLD SPONSORS SILVER SPONSORS BRONZE SPONSORS
A HEARTFELT THANK YOU TO OUR 2024 SPONSORS FOR YOUR SUPPORT
Supply Chain Management (SCM) is the oversight of materials, information, and finances as they move in a process from supplier to manufacturer to wholesaler to retailer to consumer. This award recognises an organisation that can demonstrate significant achievement or improvement within a section or across their entire supply chain.
Dedicated to Doug Beattie Award Inaugurated 1984.
Chemist Warehouse
CR Powered by Epiroc
DMS Pty Ltd
Körber Supply Chain Management
Körber Supply Chain Software
Sonepar, Lawrence & Hanson Supply Chain Team
MachShip
Swisslog and Komatsu
Lawrence & Hanson Supply Chain collaborated with Sonepar on Project Optimus Prime.
The roll-out of Optimus Prime included several layers of technology, such as AutoStore (complete with robotics), Automated Mobile Robots (AMRs), and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), as well as semi-automated cable cutting and vacuum-assisted bulk kitting.
The judges concluded that this project set a benchmark for best practices in supply chain management.
Congratulations to Sonepar and Lawrence & Hanson!
Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) Award focuses on both the psychological safety and physical wellbeing in Australia’s transport, warehousing, and logistics sectors. This award recognises how an organisation can demonstrate a significant achievement or improvement within their workplace.
Award Inaugurated 2024.
FINALISTS
B Dynamic Logistics
Bridgeport Energy
CSR Limited
Freight Cyber with Metropolitan Express & Austruck Truck Bodies
CSR Limited’s focus on implementing a standardised load planning system has successfully improved Chain of Responsibility compliance, and reduced safety risks for their employees, visitors, and other road users.
Congratulations to CSR Limited! Drivers and site personnel are experiencing a positive shift in safety culture, with more proactive safety conversations, better adherence to safety protocols, and a greater sense of accountability.
Congratulations CSR Limited!
HIGHLY COMMENDED: B DYNAMIC LOGISTICS
B dynamic Logistics safety and well-being approach has driven them to implement a leading Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) system, going well beyond basic compliance.
Gamma Solutions is the leading provider of barcode scanning and printer solutions in Australia.
Gamma Solutions isn’t just a hardware provider; we’re your partner in elevating your business beyond expectations. As industry leaders, we offer more than products; we provide peace of mind. We’re committed to keeping your business operations running smoothly by offering top-tier barcode scanning, printer, and wireless hardware solutions.
Vision Revolutionising Business Through Innovation and Partnerships
At the heart of our brand is the belief that we are your trusted advisors, accelerating and empowering you to succeed in today’s competitive landscape. We specialise in optimising your supply chain processes, reducing environmental impact, enhancing inventory visibility, and boosting your bottom line.
At Gamma Solutions, we understand that business operations can be time-consuming. That’s why we work around your schedule, offering the flexibility you need to succeed. With a national head office in Mulgrave, Victoria, and additional offices in Sydney, Queensland, Adelaide, Perth, and New Zealand, our team is well-equipped to support you across Australia and New Zealand.
Our experienced professionals simulate your installation in advance, ensuring a seamless system that aligns with your business objectives. By partnering with Gamma Solutions, you dramatically increase the chances of optimising your data collection systems, thereby enhancing all associated processes.
Gamma Solutions’ Professional Services consistently deliver more, ensuring the rapid ROI of your data collection equipment and systems. We offer mission-critical customer care plans that stand by you throughout the life of your system. Your business gains a competitive edge for optimal productivity and efficiency. We provide the software, hardware, and support services necessary to integrate a sound mobility solution into your corporate IT.
Discover the future of supply chain management with Gamma Solutions. Together, we go beyond expectations, delivering innovative solutions and forming lasting partnerships to ensure your business’s success.
To learn more, visit www.gammasolutions.com
Interroll is a global leader in material handling, intralogistics and motion solutions, with a wide range of products in use on six continents.
We make material handling sustainable, simple, enjoyable.
Headquartered in St. Antonino, Switzerland, Interroll employs about 2,500 people across the globe. Within their expansive footprint are seven global Centers of Excellence (COE) focusing on their core product line: Wermelskirchen (rollers), Hückelhoven/Baal (motorized pulleys), Sinsheim (modules and subsystems) and Mosbach (conveyor platforms) in Germany, Hvidovre (supermarket solutions) in Demark, La Roche-sur-Yon (dynamic storage) in France and St. Antonino (technopolymers) in Switzerland.
As a result, Interroll is able to supply system integrators, industrial plant manufacturers, OEMs and third-party logistics providers with reliable, high-quality products that reflect their rigorous production controls and standards.
In addition to the global Centers of Excellence are regional COEs located in the United States and China, improving speed-of-delivery while producing products according to the same rigorous requirements.
HIGHLIGHTED OFFERINGS INCLUDE:
Conveyors
Roller conveyors and sorters
Motors and drives for conveyor systems
Dynamic storage systems
“For us, it’s important to have a long-term perspective. In that context, we clearly see a growing need for reliable, sustainable solutions that are quick and easy to implement. We follow this principle not only in the hardware area, but also with our COEs in software and electronics. In this way, we are able to continuously deepen and broaden the added value of our product portfolio.”
Interroll’s global CEO
In 2024, Interroll celebrated its 65th anniversary, and made several strategic moves to focus on growth as well as strengthen corporate leadership. One such example was officially acquiring Interroll India Pvt. Ltd. based in Bengaluru (Bangalore).
Steinkrüger said, “India is a market with considerable potential for us, and this acquisition will allow us to better serve our customers with improved access to our innovative solutions and products. We look forward to building on the strong foundations that have been established over the past decade.”
Interroll also announced the hiring of Dr. Johannes van der Beek as Chief Technology Officer (CTO). Van der Beek will focus on advancing their technology roadmap, scaling digital capabilities, and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation across teams.
Joining him was Alp Ayhan Demirel as Chief Operating Officer (COO). “We’re delighted to have Demirel in the role of COO and as a member of Group Management,” said Steinkrüger. “I have every confidence that he will support our company values and make a significant contribution to our success. I really look forward to working with him and our teams to implement our long-term strategy.”
With more than 28,000 customers and a defined growth strategy, Interroll looks forward to 2025 as they deepen their impressive list of users, which include internationally renowned brands such as Amazon, Bosch, Coca-Cola, DHL, Procter & Gamble, Red Bull, Siemens, Walmart and many more.
Interroll is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange in Zurich and in 2023 reported sales of 556.3 million Swiss francs.
CRITERIA
Transport Logistics Excellence (TLE) Award facilitates both the most efficient and cost effective movement of cargo via air, road, rail or sea. This award recognises how an organisation has demonstrated a significant achievement or improvement in their people, processes or investments to improve service levels within their company or overall cargo flow improvement to industry.
Award Inaugurated 2024.
Qube Holdings & Bluescope Logistics with Sandfield & Associates WINNER
CSR Limited
JATEC Transport MAERSK
Petstock Group
Qube Holdings & Bluescope Logistics with Sandfield & Associates
Transitainer WA
Individual Award Sponsor Insync Recruitment Group
Qube made significant investments in creating Project Origin, a purpose-built supply chain management system designed to track the efficient movement of over 2 million tonnes of BlueScope Steel materials each year.
This project involves dedicated personnel, 20 new locomotives, nearly 500 new wagons, advanced IT systems, and the development of a state-of-the-art North Dynon steel terminal 1000 km’s away, transforming the rail logistics landscape, and showcasing the power of innovation, collaboration, and technology.
Congratulations Qube and Bluescope!
CRITERIA
Transport Logistics Excellence (TLE) Award facilitates both the most efficient and cost effective movement of cargo via air, road, rail or sea. This award recognises how an organisation has demonstrated a significant achievement or improvement in their people, processes or investments to improve service levels within their company or overall cargo flow improvement to industry.
Award Inaugurated 2024.
Peter Jones - Prological
Dan Majman - Lawrence & Hanson
Dennis John O’ Brien - TAFE NSW
Michael Quach - TMX Transform
Win Tun - WITRON
Monica Vorhauser - Argon & Co
WINNER
Dennis John O’Brien
Congratulations, Dennis! Tonight, you are deservedly recognised for your remarkable 50 year career in the Supply Chain and Logistics industry. Your staff nominated you, clearly demonstrating their respect for your outstanding leadership.
Your teaching ensures that students feel supported and motivated throughout their learning journey; exemplified by your successful management of the TAFE joint program with Ningbo City College in China.
Your involvement in the traineeship program has fostered stronger relationships between TAFE NSW and industry organisations.
Additionally, your active participation in national industry organisations and attendance at international industry events, underscores your ongoing commitment to elevating education and professional standards in the field.
Congratulations, Dennis, on a lifetime of dedication to the Supply Chain sector!
CRITERIA
This award provides an Incentive and recognition to an outstanding Supply Chain Industry Future Leader and to encourage and support leadership across the industry.
Dedicated to Vince Aisthorpe Award Inaugurated 2009.
James Bingham - Priority Integrated Systems
Alexandra Bosnjak - Argon & Co
Philip Chen - B Dynamic Logistics
Sahar Goudarzi - Deloitte
Mark Robilliard - Sandfield & Associates
Gemma Mae Temouskos - ThreeSixty Supply Chain
Group
Individual Award Sponsor ACADEMYGLOBAL
WINNER
Mark Robilliard - Sandfield & Associates
Mark is a 27-year-old supply chain professional based in Sydney, who excels at managing diverse projects, ranging from optimizing logistics to developing carbon calculators.
His goal is to be a catalyst for positive change within the transport and logistics sector.
The ASCLA judges are confident that he will make a significant and lasting contribution to the evolution of the industry.
Congratulations Mark!
HIGHLY COMMENDED:
GEMMA MAE TEMOUSKOS
Employed by 360 Degrees, Gemma is recognised or her relentless drive to see sustainability embedded at the heart of the supply chain industry.
DR. SAHAR GOUDARZI
As a Senior Consultant at Deloitte, Sahar is dedicated to delivering value to clients by addressing their complex supply chain and procurement challenges, especially in the areas of demand planning for maintenance operation in the heavy asset mining industry.
The recipient of this Award may stem from nominees for any of the other SCLAA awards, at the judges’ discretion, where the demonstrated achievement, improvement or results have required a logistical approach to improvement or major change to their logistics management.
Award Inaugurated 2016.
Ferag is a global company with its APAC head office and the doWarehouse development headquarters based in Sydney. The global headquarters are in Hinwil, Zurich. With over six decades of expertise, we specialise in designing and implementing leadingedge automation systems that optimise warehouse operations, streamline supply chains, and drive business outcomes. Our focus on delivering results-oriented solutions ensures that we remain at the forefront of technology, empowering our clients to achieve their operational and financial objectives.
We take a proactive approach to mitigating project risks. From initial consultation to implementation, our experienced team ensures seamless project execution, minimising downtime and addressing potential challenges before they arise.
At Ferag, our solutions are designed to positively impact EBIT (Earnings Before Interest and Taxes), addressing the key pillars of revenue, costs, service level agreements (SLAs), safety. By taking a holistic approach to warehouse and supply chain management, we reduce overall project risk, and ensure our clients can achieve superior performance, profitability, and sustainability.
Ferag is committed to delivering exceptional intralogistics project through innovation, reliability, outstanding customer satisfaction, and collaboration. We partner with businesses worldwide to transform their operations, ensuring they are equipped to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.
Ferag is committed to delivering exceptional intralogistics project through innovation, reliability, outstanding customer satisfaction, and collaboration. We partner with businesses worldwide to transform their operations, ensuring they are equipped to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.
Stratregix’s Road Ready Program has received the Judges’ Awards.
In collaboration with Programmed Skilled Workforce, we recognize their efforts to address the critical shortage of skilled truck drivers in Queensland and New South Wales.
The program is designed to assist long-term unemployed job seekers, First Nations individuals, and women in entering the transport industry as truck drivers, promoting diversity and inclusivity. Upon successful completion, they are employed by Programmed Skilled Workforce and placed in roles with their host employers, providing a direct pathway to sustainable employment in the transport industry.
Congratulations to Strategix and Programmed for this fantastic initiative!
Our advanced software and automation solutions enable faster order fulfilment, improved inventory accuracy, and integration with existing infrastructure. This enhances customer satisfaction and unlocks opportunities for increased sales and repeat business.
We focus on reducing the cost per carton by lowering labour expenses, minimising errors, and maximising the use of available space. Our solutions are tailored to reduce operational overheads while delivering long-term ROI through scalable and adaptable technologies.
Our systems improve productivity and efficiency, helping clients achieve critical SLAs. Whether it’s smart-waving, replenishment automation, or machine-learning algorithms, we help businesses meet high performance standards, reduce turnaround times, and optimise resource allocation.
Safety is at the core of our operations. By integrating automated workflows and ergonomic designs, we create safer work environments, reducing risks and ensuring compliance with industry regulations.
In her dynamic keynote address, Christine Holgate shared a message of resilience, optimism, and the importance of collaboration in the face of challenges. Her engaging keynote speech left the audience feeling empowered and optimistic. Drawing from her extensive leadership experience, including roles as CEO of Australia Post and Team Global Express, Holgate tackled the pressing challenges facing businesses today and offered a hopeful outlook for the future. Her speech balanced realism with encouragement, urging attendees to embrace opportunities, adapt to change, and lead with determination.
Holgate encouraged attendees to use events like these to build connections, form partnerships, and explore opportunities. She highlighted that relationships are the foundation of successful business endeavours. She encouraged attendees to step out of their comfort zones, meet new people, and explore potential collaborations.
Acknowledging the tough economic environment, Holgate detailed key challenges such as fluctuating oil prices, a cost-ofliving crisis, and international trade disruptions. She so referenced how significant changes in consumer behaviour, such as declining spending in major retail sectors, have rippled through industries like logistics and supply chains. Despite these, she underlined the importance of adapting and staying forward-focused.
Holgate shared an insightful perspective on leadership, asserting that it is during times of adversity that true leaders are forged. Reflecting on the industry’s resilience during the pandemic, she highlighted how it shifted from being seen as merely operational to becoming a strategic partner in boardroom conversations - “Real leaders are born not on the day they win an award, but on the days they make tough decisions and keep going despite setbacks,” Holgate said.
Holgate praised Australia’s high wages as an opportunity to attract global talent, rather than a drawback, and highlighted the nation’s culture of innovation and resilience, “We are one of the safest, most innovative, and collaborative nations. Our workforce is our strength,” she declared, referencing Australia’s groundbreaking innovations such as Wi-Fi and advancements in medical research. She also celebrated Australia’s proximity to the ASEAN region, which she called a thriving economic hub, and encouraged Australians to seize opportunities in growing markets like Indonesia and India.
Concluding on a hopeful note, Holgate urged attendees to embrace challenges with the iconic Australian fighting spirit. Sharing a metaphor from rugby, she described how a determined underdog team pulled off an unexpected victory through grit and resilience. “From tough times come our greatest successes,” she said, encouraging the audience to celebrate their achievements and approach the future with confidence and tenacity.
Christine Holgate’s speech served as a powerful reminder of the resilience and opportunities that define Australia’s business community. With an emphasis on connection, leadership, and optimism, she inspired attendees to navigate uncertainty with determination and to view challenges as opportunities for growth. As she concluded, “Let’s show Australia what this industry is made of.”
David Ring, a partner at Argon & Co, delivered a powerful speech at the SCLAA ASCLA 2024 event, addressing the critical challenges and transformative opportunities facing the logistics and supply chain industry. Representing Australia’s fastestgrowing independent supply chain consultancy, he acknowledged the remarkable dedication of professionals driving progress and innovation in this dynamic field.
In his address, David highlighted the profound resilience and adaptability demonstrated by industry leaders over the past year, navigating disruptions ranging from geopolitical tensions and economic pressures to rapid advancements in technology. He reflected on how these challenges have served as catalysts for innovation, enabling the creation of systems that are more agile, sustainable, and robust than ever before.
David also emphasised the increasing role of technology in shaping the future of supply chains, calling for continued evolution to meet the rising demands of businesses and consumers. While uncertainty remains a constant in supply chain management, he lauded the unwavering commitment of professionals to deliver exceptional outcomes, ensuring seamless operations from production to delivery.
As a partner at Argon & Co, David reaffirmed the consultancy’s dedication to fostering collaboration, empowering leaders, and advancing sustainability within the sector. He concluded his speech by expressing gratitude to all professionals for their contributions and celebrating the collective achievements of the logistics community.
SCLAA would like to thank Argon & Co for their continued support in sponsoring the ASCL Awards!
“
The
only certainty in supply chain is uncertainty. Yet, the resourcefulness and determination of the people in this room ensure that Australia’s supply chains remain resilient, innovative, and capable of driving progress.
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THE SCLAA ARE THE PROUD HOST OF THE ANNUAL ASCL AWARDS
Join the largest network of supply chain professionals in Australia