Tarmac Innovation Challenge celebrates supplier collaboration
Drone technology, cutting-edge pumping systems and state-of-the-art data monitoring software are among the exciting innovations set to be taken forward by Tarmac as part of its 2018 Innovation Challenge, an initiative designed to deliver added value and greater efficiency to further improve customer experience.
The company’s Procurement and Innovation teams came together to host its inaugural Innovation Challenge event. Suppliers were invited to develop and share innovative proposals and ideas that can deliver better outcomes for clients and customers across the wider industry.
From a pool of nearly 200 entries, a group of 14 finalists were invited to present their ideas to a panel of judges from Tarmac’s senior management team.
Hosted at the Manufacturing Technology Centre in Coventry and supported by science-based technology company 3M and the University of Nottingham, the event was focused on driving industry best practice, collaboration and supply chain engagement.
The winning entry was submitted by Chesterfield-based Atlantic Pumps for a new cutting-edge communication system that provides users with unparalleled transparency and control over their pump assets. Tarmac has committed to working with the company to refine and develop the idea before rolling it out across its sites.
Five other companies are also in line to secure financial investment and see their ideas brought to fruition, including:
- Geodime Limited’s proposals for adopting drone technology to deliver advances in health and safety and security benefits
- A revolutionary range of conveyor belt cleaning system developed by ProSpare Ltd
- A ground-breaking new pump designed by Hayley Group Limited which recycles exhausting air
- EPC United Kingdom PLC’s state-of-the-art monitoring software for drilling and blasting sites
Commenting on the initiative, Jeremy Greenwood, Tarmac managing director construction solutions, said: “We were overwhelmed to receive almost 200 ideas for our first Innovation Challenge and would like to thank everyone who submitted an entry and took part.
“Tarmac has always been committed to working collaboratively with our suppliers and it’s been incredibly inspiring to see the fantastic ideas that have been put forward.”
Jonathan Harry, procurement director, Tarmac, added: “The Innovation Challenge has been a great way for us to hear new ideas and we’re looking forward to developing the best of these in conjunction with our suppliers.
“There is much more to come from closer collaboration and we hope to make this an annual event as we continue to build and develop strong supply chain relationships.”
