Navigating the Storm: Supply Chain Challenges and Strategies Amid COVID-19 and Beyond!

Introduction:

Welcome to Globoil Post, your trusted source for the latest edible oil and agri-trade news highlights and exclusive interviews with industry leaders and experts. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Mr. Somnath Chatterjee, Head of Procurement & Logistics at ITC Ltd: Food Division. In this exclusive interview, Mr. Chatterjee shares his valuable insights on the supply chain challenges faced by ITC during the COVID-19 pandemic and the strategies adopted to ensure seamless operations. From sourcing agricultural produce to managing logistics disruptions, he sheds light on the crucial role of supply chain planning in unprecedented times.

The Business Paradigm Shift During COVID-19:

Mr. Chatterjee emphasizes that the pandemic triggered a complete shift in the business paradigm, presenting both challenges and opportunities. He highlights the significance of emergency supply chain management and the need for preparedness to combat uncertainties effectively. The coronavirus crisis has indeed amplified the VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity) world, underscoring the importance of teamwork and coordination to navigate the storm.

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The Supply Shock and Sourcing Challenges:

Amid nationwide restrictions and disruptions, ITC faced challenges negotiating with external stakeholders, arranging transportation, and securing labor. Nevertheless, the company's well-established network of warehouses and service providers enabled the maintenance of essential commodity pipelines, aligning with ITC's commitment to putting the nation and its citizens first.

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Managing International Supplies:

As a proactive measure, ITC took immediate action when the COVID-19 outbreak first appeared in China. This agility in planning and execution allowed the company to cope with disruptions in all imported items and secure supplies without any adverse impact during the lockdown.

Overcoming Supply Chain and Logistics Disruptions:

The nationwide lockdown presented significant challenges in terms of material movement, transport, and warehouse operations. However, ITC's logistics team demonstrated resilience by ensuring the timely movement of raw materials, packaging materials, and perishable items. By collaborating with supply chain vendors and obtaining necessary approvals from government authorities, they effectively navigated these hurdles.

Sourcing from Indian Agricultural Markets:

The surge in demand during the lockdown required extraordinary efforts to maintain stock levels. With meticulous planning, ITC managed to deliver on its promise of "Sab Saath Badhein," involving hundreds of laborers and trucks while prioritizing safety and hygiene measures.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead:

As the nation's lockdown continues to affect labor and transportation, the central and state governments have taken measures to safeguard agricultural activities. Agricultural reforms, including the opening up of the APMC Act, encourage direct farmer-trader interactions and barrier-free inter-state trade, empowering farmers to secure better prices.

The Vision of Future Procurement and Supply Chain Planning:

Looking ahead, Mr. Chatterjee emphasizes the need for social distancing norms and adapting to a "new normal" in the next 12 months. Procurement and supply chain functions will play a pivotal role in identifying opportunities and facilitating changes through suppliers and partners.

Conclusion:

In this insightful interview, Mr. Somnath Chatterjee sheds light on ITC's journey through the pandemic and the critical role of supply chain planning. His vision for the future underscores the importance of agility, preparedness, and collaboration as industries navigate the storm and embrace opportunities in the post-pandemic world.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this interview are solely those of Mr. Somnath Chatterjee, Head Procurement & Logistics, ITC Ltd: Food Division, and do not necessarily reflect the views of Globoil Post.

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