“We’re sincerely honored to receive this award but it would not have been possible without the close collaboration between the Ford and Penske teams,” said Marc Althen, Penske Logistics President. “Thanks to all of our associates supporting the Ford business worldwide.”

Forty-seven suppliers from 16 countries were recently recognized at Ford’s 13th annual awards event. The Gold Awards are presented to suppliers demonstrating superior quality, delivery and cost performance. The Ford World Excellence Awards honor production and nonproduction suppliers that have aligned themselves with the values and operating practices of Ford while reaching the highest quality, technology, cost and delivery standards. The winning companies represent thousands of employees, who bring diverse cultures, values and ideas to Ford in the products and services they make.

“Our 2010 World Excellence Award winners have shown an unwavering commitment to excellence in technology, quality and cost efficiency,” said Tony Brown, Ford’s Group Vice President for Global Purchasing. “Congratulations, and thank you for helping Ford serve customers with the best vehicles in the world.”

Penske Logistics provides a wide range of supply chain services to Ford Motor Company including serving as its North American lead logistics provider for its assembly, power train and stamping operations. In South America, Penske supports Ford by operating parts distribution centers and through the delivery of parts to Ford dealerships in Brazil. Penske provides sub-assembly and material handling services for Ford product lines in the U.K. and manages expedite transportation services for service parts across Europe. Penske Logistics is a strategic supplier to Ford and is a part of its Aligned Business Framework.

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 164,000 employees and about 70 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.

About Penske Logistics
Penske Logistics is a wholly owned subsidiary of Penske Truck Leasing. With operations in North America, South America, Europe and Asia, Penske Logistics provides supply chain management and logistics services to major industrial and consumer companies throughout the world. Penske Logistics delivers value through design, planning and execution in transportation, warehousing, and international freight forwarding and carrier management. To learn more visit www.PenskeLogistics.com and our “Move Ahead” blog.

Supply Chain Network Top Ten Search Terms – Q4 2008

edi software

spend management

distribution software

supply chain software

security network

manufacturing software

software management

corporate performance management

inventory management

vendor managed inventory

Interesting to note that half of these terms include software which even further highlights the importance of systems and software in the building of today’s supply chain networks!

Jeff Ashcroft