Gazeley re-accesses supply chain process

Gazeley Properties, one of the leading proponents of partnering, is to redefine the way it does business with its supply chain and clients. Gazeley, part of the Asda/Wal-Mart retail group and a specialist in the construction of distribution centres, has sent out a questionnaire to all its suppliers and clients. The questionnaire asks firms to rate Gazeley's performance and suggest ways the procurement process can be improved.

Gazeley construction director Pat McGillycuddy said responses to the questionnaire will be used to draw up a "position statement for our entire operations".

He added: "I see us as a service provider and we need to get our suppliers aligned to the way that we do business and also to our customers' requirements."

The developer also intends to hold a supply chain conference on 18 May to which all its contractors, consultants and other suppliers will be invited. The aim of the conference is to garner ideas on the ways available for the entire supply chain to improve its performance and on how to build relationships within the partnering agreement. McGillycuddy said the conference is intended not for the principals of the firms invited but for people actively involved on Gazeley projects.

"The relationships that we want with our specialist contractors is not dissimilar to prime contracting," said McGillycuddy.