For any business, global expansion and international sourcing are journeys of immense opportunity. But without a strategic focus on quality, they can be journeys fraught with risk. The pursuit of cost savings can quickly become a multi-billion-dollar lesson in the high cost of failure.
Think of it this way: a single quality lapse can lead to catastrophic financial losses, irreparable brand damage, and the complete erosion of customer trust. Look no further than the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 battery recall or the Takata airbag crisis—both of which cost companies billions and severely damaged their reputations. These are not just manufacturing failures; they are a breakdown of a global quality management system.
On the other hand, a proactive approach to quality can be your most powerful asset. Motorola, for instance, pioneered the Six Sigma methodology to address high defect rates and, in doing so, achieved a 90% reduction in defects, saving an estimated $16 billion over a decade from the mid-1980s through the 1990s. Similarly, in the service industry, The Ritz-Carlton’s unwavering focus on its quality service standards has earned it a reputation for excellence, leading to high levels of guest satisfaction and a powerful brand. These examples demonstrate that quality is not a cost centre; it is a strategic investment with a significant and quantifiable return.
That’s why a robust quality framework is your most valuable asset when operating internationally. It’s about moving beyond simply checking for defects at the end of the line (Quality Control) and building a proactive, preventative system (Quality Assurance). It’s about a company-wide commitment to excellence (Total Quality Management) that is formalised and repeatable through a Quality Management System.
At APG, we understand that quality is not a department; it’s a strategic imperative. We offer end-to-end consulting services designed to protect your brand and ensure your success in a global marketplace. We provide a meticulous, two-pronged approach:
- Strategic Design: Our experts work with you to provide clear instructions and designs for improving your Quality Assurance, Quality Control, and Total Quality Management plans. This ensures your business strategy is built on a foundation of quality from the very beginning.
- End-to-End Execution: We then support your business through every stage of the supply chain, from the initial input phase with careful inspections to warehousing, distribution, and customs.
By partnering with APG, you gain a trusted advisor who helps you design a resilient business and navigate the complexities of international markets. Our holistic approach ensures that every step, from the input phase to supply chain logistics, is managed to the highest standard, helping you build a quality-driven enterprise that thrives on a global scale.