Challenges facing supply chains in 2026 - DMT Solutions

Top 6 Challenges Facing Supply Chains in 2026

17 December 2025

by DMT Solutions Business Procurement Supply Chain

Challenges Facing Supply Chains

The landscape of global supply chains has transformed dramatically over the last several years. What began as the fallout from a global pandemic quickly evolved into a structural reconfiguration of how goods move, how procurement operates, and how businesses must think about risk, resilience, and digital capability.

By 2026, supply chain executives are navigating a world shaped by geopolitical fragmentation, climate-driven disruptions, volatile transportation markets, chronic skills shortages, and rapidly rising operating costs. In this environment, businesses are no longer competing on product alone—they are competing on efficiency, intelligence, cost-control, and the strength of their digital infrastructure.

This is exactly where DMT Solutions steps in. With deep expertise across digital transformation, cost reduction, open banking automation, and procurement optimisation, DMT Solutions helps organisations streamline complexity, cut overheads, remove inefficiencies, and unlock new levels of resilience—all while reducing costs by up to 60%.

Below are the six biggest challenges facing supply chain and procurement leaders in 2026, and how DMT Solutions equips organisations to overcome them with confidence.

1. Ongoing Port Congestion & Geopolitical Shipping Volatility

Despite improvements since the pandemic era, global shipping networks remain under intense strain. Political instability in key shipping corridors, extreme weather impacting Asia-Pacific ports, and increasing congestion at Northern European hubs have all made lead times unpredictable.

Even with automation advancements, port capacity can’t scale rapidly enough to meet fluctuating global demand. As a result:

Lead times remain inconsistent
Scheduling buffers are expanding
Inventory planning remains uncertain
Transport costs continue rising

How DMT Solutions Helps

DMT Solutions supports organisations by:

Benchmarking logistics and freight costs to ensure businesses are not overpaying due to congestion-driven surcharges.
Using data integration technology to consolidate fragmented freight, customs, supplier, and demand data into one unified dashboard—enabling faster, more accurate decision-making.
Reducing operational overheads across energy, rates, telecoms, insurance, and other business-critical services—offsetting the financial impact of shipping volatility.

When logistics turbulence increases, cost efficiency elsewhere becomes essential. DMT Solutions delivers that stability.

2. Freight and Transport Prices at Record Highs

Entering 2026, shipping costs remain stubbornly elevated across road, sea, and air. While 2024 and 2025 saw brief periods of stabilisation, several forces have pushed prices back upward:

Fuel volatility tied to geopolitical tensions
The global HGV driver deficit
Reduced container availability
Higher environmental surcharges tied to regulatory reforms

Traditional mitigation strategies—like renegotiating long-term carrier contracts—are no longer enough.

How DMT Solutions Helps

DMT Solutions empowers leadership teams by:

Benchmarking existing carrier and fuel-related charges for free
Identifying improperly priced logistics agreements
Introducing automated payment and transaction workflows via our open banking infrastructure
Reducing business running costs across multiple categories to protect margins

When freight becomes more expensive, businesses must reduce inefficiency everywhere else—and DMT Solutions is built precisely for that purpose.

3. Major Supply Chain Restructuring & Nearshoring Initiatives

By 2026, organisations are no longer asking whether to restructure supply chains—they are asking how fast they can do it. Nearshoring, friendshoring, and dual-sourcing strategies have all accelerated as companies seek to reduce exposure to long-haul logistics risks.

But restructuring introduces new challenges:

Complex onboarding of new suppliers
Fragmented systems and disorganised data
Need for stronger contract management
Increased compliance complexity

How DMT Solutions Helps

DMT Solutions enables leaders to restructure with confidence by:

Integrating fragmented procurement and operational data into a clean, centralised environment
Removing data silos so teams can evaluate supplier performance, risk exposure, and cost efficiency in real time
Digitising procurement workflows through advanced automation
Ensuring all commercial agreements are benchmarked for cost competitiveness

By combining technology with procurement expertise, DMT Solutions helps companies build agile, sustainable, future-proof supply chains.

4. Persistent Labour and Material Shortages

The global supply chain workforce shortage—across manufacturing, logistics, procurement, and engineering—remains one of the biggest obstacles in 2026. Retirements, skills gaps, and shifting career preferences have all contributed to chronic understaffing.

At the same time, materials shortages continue for semiconductors, specialised metals, construction materials, and critical minerals. Environmental disruptions further complicate availability.

How DMT Solutions Helps

DMT Solutions supports lean teams by:

Automating manual tasks through open banking technology, reducing administrative load
Creating connected data flows that allow smaller teams to perform at the level of much larger departments
Optimising operational costs, giving companies the financial flexibility to attract and retain top talent
Enabling predictive insights by connecting disparate data sources across supply chain technology stacks

With DMT Solutions, smaller teams don’t mean slower operations—they mean smarter ones.

Want to scale your business?

5. High Inflation & Rising Business Operating Costs

Inflation has eased in some global regions, but operating costs for businesses remain significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels. Energy prices, insurance premiums, property costs, telecoms, waste management, and financial services charges all continue to climb faster than revenue growth in many sectors.

For supply chain executives, this means:

Higher procurement costs
Increased cost-to-serve
Shrinking margins
More pressure to find internal savings

How DMT Solutions Helps

This is where DMT Solutions delivers extraordinary value.

We help companies:

Reduce business overheads by up to 60%
Benchmark all operating costs for free
Consolidate scattered financial systems using open banking technology
Identify hidden inefficiencies across procurement, operations, and finance
Streamline payment and transaction workflows to reduce friction and eliminate waste

In an inflation-heavy environment, cost reduction is not optional—it’s strategic. DMT Solutions provides the capability and intelligence to protect profitability long-term.

6. Demand Forecasting in a Market Defined by Instability

Traditional forecasting models relying on trailing data are increasingly unreliable. Climate-induced disruptions, unpredictable consumer behaviour, global economic fluctuations, and volatile supply patterns make it incredibly difficult to plan accurately.

By 2026, leaders need forecasting models powered by integrated data, not isolated spreadsheets or data silos. (Contact us about data integration and removing data silos).

How DMT Solutions Helps

DMT Solutions strengthens forecasting capability by:

Integrating data from CRM, ERP, supplier portals, logistics platforms, and financial systems into one unified view
Enabling AI-driven insights through well-structured, de-siloed data
Enhancing inventory planning accuracy
Supporting real-time demand visibility
Reducing guesswork and forecasting risk

Better data means better decisions—and DMT Solutions provides the infrastructure to make that possible.

Stronger Leadership in a New Supply Chain Era

2026 is not a year for reactive leadership—it is a year for transformation.
Supply chain executives who embrace modernised procurement, data integration, cost optimisation, and automation will outperform competitors still relying on outdated structures and fragmented technologies.

DMT Solutions is the strategic partner enabling that transformation.

We help businesses:

Cut costs dramatically
Remove inefficiencies
Streamline procurement
Automate transactions
Integrate data
Strengthen resilience
Build supply chains prepared for the next decade

In a world where volatility is becoming the norm, DMT Solutions gives organisations stability, intelligence, and financial strength to grow confidently.

How our process works

Our streamlined process is designed to make business easy.

Provide copies of existing contracts or your business requirements and we’ll handle the rest.

Don’t let your competitors have the advantage.

Review

A short call to review your circumstances

Procure

We procure the best suppliers for your business

Impartial

Impartial recommendations and full support

Transaction-As-A-Service-Digital-Media-Technology-Solutions

Why the Future Belongs to Transaction-as-a-Service (TaaS)

3 December 2025

by DMT Solutions Business Finance News Technology

Transaction As A Service has come a long way when we view the technology landscape through a lens of deep experience.

Having navigated the industry since the era when software was shipped on 8-inch floppy disks, we have watched—and helped shape—the way enterprises buy, deploy, and pay for technology.

We moved through the age of physical distribution, survived the era of perpetual on-premise licenses, and embraced the great migration to the Cloud.

Now, we are witnessing what we believe is the final and most profound shift: the complete commoditisation of the business transaction itself.

The future of business efficiency does not belong to Software-as-a-Service (SaaS). It belongs to Transaction-as-a-Service (TaaS).

The Heavy Lift of the Physical Era

In the 1980s, software was a tangible asset. We pressed floppy disks and shipped shrink-wrapped boxes with price tags in the tens of thousands.

For the customer, the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) was punishing. A single installation of an early accounting suite could require 27 floppy disks and days of professional services.

While the marginal cost of the disk was low, the operational friction was enormous: hardware costs, maintenance contracts at 20% of the list price, and the constant threat of obsolescence.

The Era of Racks and Perpetual Seats

By the late 90s, the CD-ROM replaced the floppy, and the data centre replaced the back office. However, the economic model remained rigid. Corporations paid seven-figure upfront fees for “named user” or “concurrent seat” licenses.

This era was defined by CapEx bloat. A typical ERP rollout required millions in hardware, database licenses, and years of consulting. The vendor secured a steady annuity through maintenance fees, while the customer was locked into upgrade cycles they could neither afford nor escape.

SaaS and the First Great Unbundling

Then came the cloud revolution. Salesforce, NetSuite, and Workday proved that software could be rented. The unit of consumption shifted from the “seat” to the “user/month.”

The entry price collapsed from thousands of pounds to tens of pounds. Infrastructure moved off the balance sheet (thanks to AWS and Azure), and pricing finally began to track usage rather than hypothetical capacity.

However, SaaS left a massive, undigested cost on the table: the business transaction itself.

Transaction-As-A-Service (TaaS) – The Final Frontier

Every piece of enterprise software exists to move money, data, or commitments. Invoicing, payroll, procurement, trade finance—every workflow ends in a transaction that must be reconciled, settled, and paid for.

Historically, this transaction layer was expensive, slow, and riddled with friction (payment gateways, SWIFT fees, and manual reconciliation).

This is where DMT Solutions is changing the game. Today, through the convergence of Open Banking, real-time ledgers, and instant-payment rails (Faster Payments, SEPA Instant), the transaction has become a utility.

Transaction-as-a-Service (TaaS) treats the transaction exactly like Amazon treats compute: an on-demand, pay-as-you-go service with guaranteed availability and transparent pricing.

The Financial Case for TaaS

For the C-Suite, the economics of TaaS are irresistible when compared to legacy models:

The Invoice-to-Pay Cycle: Previously costing a mid-sized company £7–£12 in bank fees and reconciliation effort, this now costs 8–18 pence end-to-end on a TaaS fabric.
Loan Origination: A consumer loan origination that once carried a £35–£70 all-in cost can now be executed for £1.20.
Cross-Border B2B: Payments that attracted 3–7% FX fees and correspondent-bank drag now settle in seconds for 0.4% total.

Why This Shift is Inevitable

Marginal Cost Approaches Zero: Once regulatory licenses and Open Banking rails are in place, the cost of an additional transaction is microscopic.
Risk is Data-Driven: We no longer rely on blunt fees to cover risk. Machine learning models operating at scale allow for risk pooling that is dramatically more efficient.
Native Automation: The transaction engine is embedded. The same API call that approves an expense triggers the payment, the reconciliation, the VAT report, and the FX hedge—simultaneously.

Conclusion: The New Unit of Value

In the 1980s, the unit of software was the box. In the 1990s, it was the seat. In the 2010s, it was the user/month. In the 2020s and beyond, the unit of enterprise technology is the transaction.

The winners of the next decade will not be the companies selling the most software licenses. They will be the organisations that process the most transactions at the lowest all-in cost.

At DMT Solutions, we are not just watching this shift; we are building the infrastructure for it. We are moving from the era of “renting software” to an era of friction-free, low-cost transactional utility.

The future is not another SaaS category. The future is Transaction-as-a-Service—and it is already here.

Book a call with the team today to get started.

Connected ERP Systems - Digital Media Technology Solutions

Why a bespoke ERP System is Your Most Strategic Investment

3 December 2025

by DMT Solutions Business Technology

Bespoke ERP Systems are a must in the interconnected economic system.

As business executives and C-Suite directors, your mandate is clear:

Maximise shareholder value,
Enforce competitive differentiation, and
Secure long-term profitability.

In a global economy that is increasingly digitised and complex, the machinery that drives your organisation cannot be generic.

At DMT Solutions, we have observed a critical differentiator:

Market leaders do not adapt their business to fit software; they build software that amplifies their business.

While off-the-shelf Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solutions offer a “quick fix,” they are fundamentally designed for the mass market, not your specific market dominance.

True transformation—and the kind of deep, sustained cost reduction that excites the boardroom—is found only in the strategic deployment of a Bespoke ERP System. This is not merely software; it is a proprietary asset and the architectural blueprint for your operational excellence.

The Financial Logic: Moving from “Cost” to “Capital Asset”

The most common objection to bespoke development is the initial capital outlay. However, seasoned executives know that “price” is what you pay, but “value” is what you get. The “cheaper” off-the-shelf alternative often carries catastrophic long-term costs: punitive licensing fees, expensive workarounds for process mismatches, and the inability to scale.

We view a Bespoke ERP through three critical financial lenses:

Deep Operational Cost Reduction
Maximised Profitability Drivers
Strategic Risk Mitigation

1. Deep Operational Cost Reduction Through Precision Engineering

Standard ERPs force you to adopt “best practices” that are actually just “common practices.” This dilutes your competitive edge. A bespoke system from DMT Solutions is designed to eliminate organisational “cost leaks” at the source by removing data silos and integrating disparate systems.

Automation of Proprietary Workflows: Your most complex, high-value processes—the ones generic software cannot handle—are often where your profit margin lives. We target these workflows directly.
- Real-world Impact: A professional services firm streamlined a process requiring five people and two weeks into a two-day deliverable. This is not just efficiency; it is a multiplier effect on your capacity to win new business without increasing headcount.
Inventory & Financial Precision via Open Banking: Utilising our expertise in Open Banking Technology and Financial Solutions, a bespoke system does more than count stock; it manages cash flow and allows access to Transaction-As-A-Service capabilities.
- Real-world Impact: Custom logic for demand planning enabled one company to accurately forecast available-to-sell quantities, resulting in a 22% sales increase in Q1 simply by having better visibility than its competitors.
Reduced Administrative Overheads: When a system is intuitive, training costs plummet, and manual errors vanish.
- Real-world Impact: A logistics company reduced payroll processing time by 84% by integrating its ERP directly with time-clock solutions, freeing finance staff for high-value strategic work.

2. Maximising Profitability and Competitive Advantage

A bespoke ERP is not an expense-management tool; it is a platform for aggressive market leadership.

Codifying Your Intellectual Property: Your unique business processes are your IP. By hard-coding these processes into a bespoke system, you make your competitive advantage repeatable for you, but impossible for competitors to replicate. You are essentially building a technological moat around your business.
Accelerated Speed-to-Market: In the digital age, speed is currency. For engineered-to-order or manufacturing sectors, bespoke systems can automate complex configuration bids.
- The Result: One case study noted a cut in time-to-bid by 400%, directly resulting in a 22% higher win rate. When you are faster than the market, you capture the market.
Future-Proofing and Agility: Off-the-shelf ERPs tether your future to a vendor’s roadmap. If they pivot, you pivot. A bespoke system, owned by you, allows for continuous innovation. It scales as you scale, adapting to new business models without the need for expensive, forced upgrades or bolt-on applications.

3. Strategic Risk Mitigation and Superior Governance

For the CFO and CEO, the “single source of truth” is non-negotiable.

Decision-Making with Real-Time Intelligence: We move you away from retrospective reporting to real-time analytics. Bespoke dashboards contextualise data across the entire organisation, minimising the risk of strategic decisions based on siloed or outdated spreadsheets.
Compliance as an Automated Function: Whether it is GDPR in the UK or international trade regulations, a tailored system has compliance hard-wired into the workflow.
Lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): While the initial build is an investment, the 2–10 year horizon offers superior economics. You eliminate recurring license fees for unused modules and avoid vendor lock-in.
- Example: A biotech firm transitioned to a custom cloud-based ERP, cutting annual software maintenance by £800,000 by eliminating legacy licensing fees.

Lessons from the Field: The ROI of Strategic Implementation

The following examples highlight that successful ERP strategies—whether adapting major platforms or building from scratch—share one trait: Strategic Customisation.

Company	Challenge Addressed	Strategic Solution	Quantifiable Result
Nestlé	Global operational fragmentation and inconsistent processes (Project BEST).	Phased, standardised implementation of SAP ERP with strong executive involvement.	Saved $325 million in operating costs by 2002.
Cadbury	Inefficiency in production and distribution during the rapid growth phase.	Large-scale SAP ERP implementation to standardise processes and consolidate manufacturing.	Reduced overall operating costs and improved production efficiency across the supply chain.
Global Charter School	Overspending on legacy systems and multi-million dollar vendor bids.	ERP selection and implementation was cheaper and faster than initial bids.	Net Savings of $2.8 Million in Year One, and over $4 million over five years.

Conclusion: A Strategic Imperative

For the management team, the decision to engage DMT Solutions for a bespoke ERP system is a definitive strategic choice. It is a commitment to stop renting your operational capabilities and start owning them.

We use technology to streamline business processes, remove data silos, and increase efficiency. By integrating our core strengths—from Open Banking Technology to Procurement Cost-Reduction—we ensure your technology stack actively supports your unique value proposition.

In today’s competitive landscape, your business processes are your intellectual property.

A bespoke ERP is the fortress that protects that IP. The time to stop compromising with “out-of-the-box” thinking and start building your custom operational foundation is now.

The time for a custom-tailored operational foundation is now.

Book a call with one of the team today.

Want to scale your business?

Embracing Sustainable Procurement for Business

19 March 2024

by DMT Solutions Business Cost Reduction

Sustainable procurement is more than just a buzzword. It’s a guiding principle for reshaping industries, policies, and how we all do business.

For too long, the challenges posed by climate change, habitat loss, and the depletion of non-renewable resources were ignored by corporations and governments.

However, the tide is turning, and as business owners and directors, it’s crucial to understand why sustainable procurement matters now more than ever.

Embracing Sustainability

At DMT Solutions, we firmly believe that businesses and corporations should be a force for good, driving positive change in the world. That’s why we are championing sustainable procurement and offering our clients the tools, insights and savings they need to align their operations with sustainability goals.

A Future-Proof Approach

Sustainable procurement is not just a noble pursuit; it’s also a strategic move to future-proof your business.

Regulatory Compliance: Governments worldwide are introducing stringent sustainability regulations. By proactively adopting sustainable procurement practices, you can stay ahead of these mandates and avoid potential legal and financial consequences.

Resilience in Supply Chains: The past few years have shown us how vulnerable supply chains can be to disruptions. Sustainable procurement diversifies your sources and ensures that your supply chain is more resilient, reducing the risk of business disruptions due to climate events or other crises.

Enhanced Reputation: Consumers are increasingly conscious of the environmental and social impact of a company’s footprint. Companies demonstrating a commitment to sustainability through procurement practices can add to their brand’s reputation and attract eco-conscious customers.

The Financial Upside: Often, there is a misconception that sustainability comes at a high cost. Sustainable procurement solutions often lead to financial benefits.

Examples of sustainable procurement include environmental legal compliance and target setting, the removal of hazardous materials, waste and carbon emissions across the supply chain, and thorough vetting of suppliers for fair labour practises.

It’s a win-win scenario: cost savings and a smaller environmental footprint whilst contributing to a greener future.

Sustainable Procurement – Why it Matters

In today’s rapidly changing business landscape, sustainable procurement is a critical priority for businesses of all sizes and industries.

It represents a strategic approach to sourcing goods and services that not only considers traditional factors like cost and quality as well as environmental, social, and ethical considerations.

Here’s why sustainable procurement matters more than ever:

Risk Management and Reputation Enhancement: Engaging with suppliers or customers involved in unethical practices, such as child labour or pollution, can have severe financial consequences and damage a company’s brand image. Sustainable procurement safeguards against these risks, helping preserve your organisation’s reputation and financial stability.
Cost Optimisation: Implementing sustainable procurement practices can also yield cost savings for your company and its supply chain. Cost optimisation translates into a competitive edge by offering attractive pricing to clients compared to competitors who haven’t embraced sustainability. Examples of cost-saving measures include green energy efficiency initiatives, on-site solar energy generation, and waste reduction programs – valuable in today’s era of historically high energy costs.
Revenue Growth: Consumers and corporate buyers are increasingly mindful of the environmental and social responsibility of their suppliers. Public sector procurement regulations have evolved to require evidence of environmental and Corporate Social Responsibility plans and targets for tenders over a certain value threshold. The shift in buying behaviour has a profound ripple effect throughout supply chains, potentially boosting your sales revenue as you align with these sustainable values.
Future-Proofing Against Risks Developing sustainable procurement practices equips your organisation to navigate supply scarcity and adapt to changing social, economic, and environmental factors. A forward-thinking approach helps mitigate risks associated with an uncertain future.
Fostering Eco-Friendly Supplier Relationships Ethical buyers can showcase their commitment to sustainability by sourcing products and services from suppliers with ethical and eco-friendly practices. Encouraging the growth of eco-supply chains also contributes to price reductions as suppliers leverage economies of scale.

Prioritising sustainability in your supply chain will reduce risks, enhance your brand’s reputation, and cut costs but positions your business for growth in an evolving marketplace. Embracing sustainable procurement isn’t just a choice; it’s a strategic imperative for the future.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sustainable procurement is not just a moral obligation; it’s a smart business move. It positions your company for long-term success by aligning with evolving regulations, strengthening your supply chain, and improving your financial bottom line.

At DMT Solutions, we believe in being the change we want to see in the world, and we invite you to join us on this journey towards a sustainable, prosperous future, whilst helping your business to reduce costs by as much as 75% through our sustainable procurement.

Together we can make a difference, one procurement decision at a time.

Partnerships for Positive Impact

DMT Solutions is not just talking the talk; we’re walking the walk. We understand that sustainable challenges bring about opportunities for businesses, communities, and people to thrive. That’s why we’ve taken significant steps to make a positive impact to accurately measure our carbon footprint and offset our CO2 emissions. We’ve partnered with 1001trees.uk. The collaboration ensures that we are taking tangible steps to combat climate change.

Carbon Negative Commitment:

We recognise the urgency of addressing carbon emissions. DMT Solutions has taken the bold step of becoming carbon-negative, which means we not only reduce our carbon footprint but are actively offsetting more emissions than we produce.

How Procurement Outsourcing Can Ease Financial Pressure

26 February 2024

by DMT Solutions Business Finance Procurement Supply Chain

Procurement outsourcing is rapidly gaining traction as a strategic solution for businesses of all sizes.

Today’s competitive business environment has changed from promotional strategies, marketing channels, and pricing methods, to how organisations adjust their strategies to compete effectively using procurement outsourcing as a strategic tool for Chief Procurement Officers (CPOs), business owners, and finance directors to alleviate pressure, optimise costs, and empower their organisations to thrive.

This blog delves into the benefits, considerations, and steps involved in leveraging procurement outsourcing to ease pressure in-house. Whether you’re feeling the strain of managing a demanding procurement process or seeking to enhance efficiency and effectiveness, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions for your organisation.

Is your business feeling the weight of a demanding procurement process?

You’re not alone. Supply chain issues, one global political crisis after another, rising interest rates, global inflation, and employing the right talent and skillset meant 90% of businesses raised their prices by 10% or more last year.

Whether you’re a procurement department head, a business owner, or a finance director, the pressure to optimise costs, ensure efficiency, and manage supplier relationships can be immense.

In 2024, procurement outsourcing is emerging as a strategic solution to alleviate these pressures and empower your organisation to thrive.

What is Procurement Outsourcing?

Procurement outsourcing involves partnering with a third-party provider such as DMT Solutions to manage specific aspects of your sourcing and supplier management functions.

Allowing your internal team to focus on core competencies, while the outsourced partner leverages its expertise and resources to deliver the following benefits:

Reduced Costs: Procurement service providers often benefit from economies of scale, allowing them to negotiate better rates of up to 75% with suppliers and potentially reduce their overall procurement spend. Additionally, you can save on overhead costs associated with hiring, training, and managing an in-house procurement team.
Enhanced Expertise: Access a team of seasoned procurement professionals. With more than 20 years of specialised knowledge in strategic sourcing, negotiation, and supply chain management. Our expertise can help you make informed purchasing decisions, optimise contracts, and identify cost-saving opportunities.
Improved Efficiency: Procurement service providers utilise best practices and cutting-edge technology to streamline the procurement process. Our services are designed to significantly reduce administrative burdens and free up your team’s time to focus on strategic initiatives.
Strengthened Supplier Relationships: Leverage our established supplier network and relationship management expertise to secure better deals and ensure reliable, high-quality products and services.
Increased Agility: As your business needs evolve, a flexible outsourcing arrangement allows you to scale your procurement resources up or down as required, ensuring you remain adaptable and responsive to market changes.

Is Procurement Outsourcing Right for You?

While procurement outsourcing offers numerous benefits, it’s crucial to assess your organisation’s specific needs and circumstances carefully. Consider the following factors:

The complexity of your procurement needs: If you deal with a high volume of diverse purchases, outsourcing can be particularly beneficial.
Size and capabilities of your in-house team: If your team lacks the expertise or resources to handle your procurement workload effectively, outsourcing can be a valuable solution.
Strategic goals of your organisation: If your focus is on cost savings, efficiency, or supplier management improvement, outsourcing can support these goals.

We cover 15 core business activities including:

Taking the Next Step

If you’re considering procurement outsourcing, we must conduct thorough research on your business costs. Our proven track record, industry expertise, and a clear understanding of your requirements will benchmark your current costs and tender for the best value in pricing, service levels and value for money.

By carefully evaluating your needs and exploring the potential benefits, procurement outsourcing can be a powerful tool for easing pressure, optimising costs, and driving growth within your organisation.

How our process works

Our streamlined process is designed to make business easy.

Provide copies of existing contracts or your business requirements and we’ll handle the rest.

Don’t let your competitors have the advantage.

Review

A short call to review your circumstances

Procure

We procure the best suppliers for your business

Impartial

Impartial recommendations and full support

Procurement Business Partner - DMT Solutions

Procurement Business Partner: Why Your Organisation Needs One

21 February 2024

by DMT Solutions Business Procurement

A Procurement Business Partner (PBP) is a person who acts as a conduit between the procurement function and the rest of the business to translate the needs of the business into suitable procurement language.

Imagine a world where your procurement function doesn’t just negotiate prices but actively drives business growth and innovation.

Sounds fantastical, right?

But with a Procurement Business Partner (PBP) by your side, this vision becomes a reality.

Think of a PBP as a strategic sidekick for your procurement team. They’re not just there to source the cheapest goods or services; they’re invested in understanding your organisation’s goals and aligning procurement strategies with them.

They bring a wealth of expertise, data-driven insights, and a collaborative spirit to the table, fundamentally changing the procurement game.

But why work with a PBP when you already have a procurement team?

5 Reasons why a procurement business partner makes sense:

1. Unleashing Untapped Value: Going beyond cost reduction, PBPs identify opportunities for strategic sourcing, supplier collaboration, and category management, unlocking hidden value across your supply chain.

Imagine negotiating favourable terms with key suppliers, securing innovative solutions, and optimising inventory management – all while saving money.

2. Data-Driven Decisions, Not Gut Feelings: In today’s data-driven world, intuition just doesn’t cut it. PBPs leverage advanced analytics and market intelligence to inform crucial procurement decisions.

They translate complex data into actionable insights, ensuring you make informed choices and avoid costly mistakes.

3. Innovation on Autopilot: Forget about sourcing the same old products. PBPs actively connect you with cutting-edge solutions and emerging technologies through their extensive supplier network and market knowledge.

Think faster time-to-market, improved product quality, and a competitive edge you can’t buy.

4. Risk Management Superhero: From fluctuating prices to supply chain disruptions, the world of procurement is fraught with risks. PBPs act as your risk management shield, proactively identifying and mitigating potential issues.

They establish diverse supplier relationships, implement contingency plans, and ensure your supply chain remains resilient.

5. Collaboration, Not Silos: Gone are the days of isolated departments. PBPs bridge the gap between procurement and other functions like R&D, marketing, and operations.

They foster collaboration, ensure alignment with broader business goals, and contribute to a more integrated, efficient organisation.

Investing in a PBP is an investment in your organisation’s future.

It’s about transforming procurement from a transactional function into a strategic powerhouse, driving value, innovation, and sustainable growth.

So, are you ready to ditch the “just-a-buyer” approach and embrace the potential of a true Procurement Business Partner?

Ready to learn more?

Contact us today to discuss how a PBP can transform your procurement function and unleash your organisation’s full potential!

DMT Solutions has helped thousands of businesses reduce their costs and business overheads by working with our Procurement Business Partners to not only benchmark but to get the best value and lowest prices on goods and services.

Get in touch if you’d like to reduce your business costs by as much as 75% in under six weeks.

Increase Your Business Profitability: A Step-by-Step Guide

14 February 2024

by DMT Solutions Business Cost Reduction Supply Chain

Business profitability is always at the back of any business owner’s mind.

Every business can improve its profitability. While sometimes a single factor can make a big difference, for most, it’s a steady stream of small improvements that truly lead to success.

This guide will equip you with actionable strategies to increase your profit margins, identify areas for improvement, reduce costs, drive sustainable growth, and implement effective strategies that lead to business profitability.

Boost your bottom line with these actionable strategies.

1. Analyse Your Current State:

Track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Identify metrics like sales, costs, and profit margins to measure progress and pinpoint areas needing attention.
Review Costs: Analyse your expenses, including overheads, materials, and labour, to identify potential areas for savings.
Assess Efficiency: Measure how effectively resources are used to identify bottlenecks and areas for improvement.

2. Implement Cost-Saving Measures:

Negotiate with Suppliers: Leverage your buying power to secure better deals on materials and services.
Reduce Waste: Eliminate unnecessary spending in areas like energy, supplies, and inventory.
Optimise Processes: Streamline workflows and eliminate inefficiencies to improve productivity and reduce costs.

Business Profitability - The ability of a business to generate profits from its activities

3. Enhance Revenue Generation:

Review Pricing: Analyse your pricing strategy and consider adjustments to reflect market value and customer demand.
Upsell and Cross-Sell: Offer existing customers additional products or services to increase their average transaction value.
Tap into New Markets: Explore expanding your reach to new customer segments or geographic areas.
Develop New Products or Services: Innovate to meet evolving customer needs and create new revenue streams.

4. Invest in Your People:

Train and Develop Employees: Equip your team with the skills and knowledge to work more efficiently and effectively.
Boost Employee Engagement: Foster a positive work environment to motivate and retain top talent.
Offer Incentives: Reward employees for exceeding targets and contributing to profitability improvement.

5. Leverage Technology:

Automate Tasks: Utilise technology to streamline manual processes and free up employee time for higher-value activities.
Improve Data Analysis: Gain insights from data to make informed decisions and optimise operations.
Implement Digital Marketing: Utilise online channels to reach new customers and drive targeted sales.

Remember:

Start small and scale: Choose a few key areas to focus on initially and gradually expand your efforts.
Continuously monitor and adapt: Track progress, measure results, and adjust your strategies as needed.
Seek expert advice: Consider collaborating with consultants or industry professionals for guidance.

By implementing these steps and adopting a data-driven approach, you can unlock the full potential of your business and achieve sustainable profitability.

Bonus

Checklist for Improving Business Profitability

Checklist for Business Profitability - DMT Solutions

Checklist for Improving Business Profitability

14 February 2024

by DMT Solutions Business Finance

Business profitability as a business leader, is in your blood.

It fuels expansion, rewards your team, and ensures your company thrives in the ever-shifting market landscape.

But what happens when profits start to stagnate?

Do you accept it as the new normal, or do you ignite a fire for sustainable, explosive growth?

This blog is your battle cry for profitability

We’ll delve into proven strategies and actionable insights designed to transform your business from good to great.

Whether you’re a seasoned finance director or a passionate entrepreneur, we’ll equip you with the tools to:

Identify hidden profit leaks and plug them for good.
Optimise your pricing strategy to maximise revenue without sacrificing value.
Streamline operations and unlock efficiency gains that boost your bottom line.
Fuel customer loyalty and repeat business through targeted strategies.
Embrace data-driven decisions that pave the way for sustainable growth.

Forget platitudes and generic advice.

Here, you’ll find practical, industry-specific solutions tailored to your unique business challenges.

General:

Review your financial statements: Understand your profit margins, costs, and revenue streams. Once you have established a baseline for your current position, you can then make plans for the future.
SMART: Set Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART) profitability goals.
Key areas: Identify key areas for improvement based on your financial statements and business needs.

Cost Management:

Review all expenses: Categorise and analyse all ongoing and operational costs.
Identify areas of potential cost reduction: Look for redundancies, inefficiencies, and unnecessary spending.
Negotiate better deals with suppliers: Renegotiate contracts for lower prices or better terms.
Explore alternative suppliers: Compare prices and offerings from different providers.
Implement cost-saving measures: Optimise processes, reduce waste and eliminate unnecessary overheads.

Sales and Marketing:

Analyse your current sales data: Identify your most profitable products, services, and customer segments.
Develop targeted marketing campaigns: Reach the right audience with messaging that resonates.
Implement sales promotion strategies: Offer discounts, promotions, and incentives to attract new customers.
Improve your pricing strategy: Analyse competitor pricing and customer willingness to pay.
Upsell and cross-sell to existing customers: Offer additional products or services that complement their purchases.

Operations and Efficiency:

Streamline your business processes: Identify and eliminate bottlenecks and inefficiencies.
Invest in technology and automation: Automate tasks to improve efficiency and reduce errors.
Optimise inventory management: Minimise stockouts and overstocking to improve cash flow.
Train employees on best practices: Empower your team to work more efficiently and productively.
Measure and track key performance indicators (KPIs): Monitor progress and identify areas for further improvement.

Remember:

Prioritise actions: Focus on the most impactful changes first.
Track your progress: Monitor key metrics and adjust your strategies as needed.
Celebrate successes: Reward yourself and your team for achieving milestones.
Seek professional help: Consult with financial or business advisors if needed.

By creating a customised checklist and taking consistent action, you can improve your business profitability and achieve your financial goals.

Additional Tips:

Consider using project management tools such as Asana to track your progress and assign tasks.
Share your checklist with your team to promote engagement and accountability.
Review and update your checklist regularly as your business evolves.

Remember, success takes time and effort. Stay focused, and stay motivated, and you will see results.

For more information, read our article:

Increase Your Business Profitability: A Step-By-Step Guide

The Hidden Costs of Running a Business - DMT Solutions

Running a Business: The Hidden Costs

14 February 2024

by DMT Solutions Business Finance

The allure of running a business or becoming an entrepreneur is undeniable. The idea of being your boss, crafting your destiny, and reaping the rewards of your hard work are dreams many hold dear.

But the path to success is rarely smooth and often lurks a shadowy figure: the hidden costs of running a business.

Expenses can quickly escalate, turning initial optimism into a financial predicament. For aspiring entrepreneurs, being aware of these hidden costs is crucial for navigating the exciting yet challenging waters of business ownership.

The Employee Labyrinth:

Beyond salaries, payroll taxes, and benefits, the employee realm harbours hidden depths. Recruitment costs can be hefty, from advertising to agency fees. Turnover is another beast, costing up to 20% of an employee’s salary to replace them. Invest in training, development, and a positive work environment to retain your valuable talent.

The Regulatory Kraken:

Permits, licenses, and compliance fees are unavoidable, but their complexities can be surprising. Research your industry’s regulations thoroughly and factor them into your budget. Consider consulting a professional to navigate the legal landscape, potentially saving you time, money, and headaches down the line.

The Marketing Mirage:

Marketing your business is essential, but resist the allure of expensive campaigns without a clear strategy. Free and organic methods like social media, content marketing, and networking can be powerful tools. Start small, track results, and adjust your approach as you learn and grow.

The Technology Trap:

Technology is a double-edged sword. While it can streamline processes and boost productivity, it comes with hidden costs. Subscription fees, software updates, hardware maintenance, and cybersecurity measures can add up quickly.

Choose essential tools, negotiate subscriptions, and consider open-source software alternatives where feasible.

The Inventory Impasse:

For product-based businesses, inventory management can be a minefield. Overstocking leads to wasted space, capital, and potential obsolescence. Understocking risks lost sales and customer dissatisfaction. Carefully balance demand forecasting with supplier contracts and storage costs.

The Insurance Illusion:

Business insurance is vital, but coverage options and pricing vary greatly. Don’t blindly accept the first quote. Shop around, compare coverages, and negotiate premiums. Consider bundling policies for potential discounts.

The Professional Siren Song:

Accountants, lawyers, and other professionals can be invaluable assets, but their expertise comes at a cost. Evaluate your needs carefully before engaging them.

Consider hourly rates, project-based fees, and alternative solutions like online legal services or DIY accounting software.

Keeping Costs Under Control:

Remember, every penny saved is a penny earned. Here are some general tips for minimising business costs:

Embrace Frugality: Look for cost-effective solutions in every area, from office supplies to marketing campaigns.
Negotiate Relentlessly: Don’t be afraid to negotiate with vendors, suppliers, and service providers.
Track Everything: Monitor your expenses closely to identify areas for improvement.
Embrace Technology: Utilise free and open-source tools where possible, and carefully evaluate paid options.
Outsource strategically: Consider outsourcing non-core tasks to freelancers or virtual assistants for cost savings.
Seek support: Network with other entrepreneurs and seek guidance from mentors or advisors.

Running a business is an incredible journey, but don’t let hidden costs derail your dreams.

By being informed, proactive, and resourceful, you can navigate these financial hurdles and set your business on a course for success.

Remember, every cost you control is an investment in your future. So, set sail with your eyes wide open, and chart a course towards financial stability and entrepreneurial freedom!

Online-Reviews-5-Essential-Steps-for-Harnessing-the-Power-of-Customers-DMT-Solutions

Online Reviews: 5 Steps for Harnessing Customer Reviews

26 January 2024

by DMT Solutions Business Digital Marketing

Online reviews give small business owners a golden opportunity to leverage their customers’ reviews for more sales and brand awareness.

Like word-of-mouth marketing, online reviews can significantly impact your business’s success.

According to a survey by Trustpilot, 95% of consumers trust online customer reviews as much as personal recommendations, with 92% admitting to reading online reviews before making a purchase.

Online reviews are a game-changer for small businesses. However, with great power comes great responsibility.

Avoiding these common mistakes and pitfalls will ensure online reviews work in your favour.

Neglecting Review Tracking

You can’t manage what you can’t see.

Implement a tracking system (e.g., Google Alerts) to stay informed about what customers are saying online about your business.

Monitor your business name and consider including your name, contact details, and relevant keywords.

Awareness of where your reviews are being posted allows you to address negative feedback and leverage positive reviews in your marketing efforts.

Forgetting to Request Reviews

Don’t forget to collect valuable online reviews – don’t wait for them to happen organically.

Many small businesses miss out on encouraging customers to share their experiences online.

Whether through a printed card or an email, develop a routine of politely requesting customers to review your business, especially after completing a transaction or providing a service.

There are many different platforms where customers can leave reviews of your business.

Ignoring Review Responses

Businesses need to respond to all reviews, both positive and negative, which demonstrates their commitment to customer satisfaction.

Seize the opportunity to showcase your exceptional customer service by thanking positive reviewers and addressing concerns from negative ones.

These interactions can leave a lasting impression on potential customers who observe your responsiveness and may try your establishment even though another customer did not have a good experience.

Failing to Offer Offline Resolution

When responding to negative reviews, extend an invitation for the customer to contact you directly through a provided phone number or email address.

Resolving the issue in private is far more constructive than a public online exchange, which can deter potential customers and draw them out into a long public exchange.

Avoiding Argumentative Replies

Regardless of the tone or accuracy of a negative review, always maintain a calm and professional demeanour in your responses.

Avoid public confrontations as they reflect poorly on your business.

Focus on resolving issues privately when feasible and counterbalance negative reviews with an abundance of positive ones from satisfied customers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, online reviews are a potent tool for small businesses to bolster sales and enhance their brand’s visibility.

Avoid these five mistakes, and you’ll harness the full potential of online reviews while fostering a positive image for your business.