The run-up to the 2010 Fifa World Cup has been a challenging time for the African supply chain and operations profession, but what happens after the event, when the hype has died down?
“It’s this question that led to the selection of the 32nd Annual SAPICS 2010 Conference theme: ‘The beat goes on’,” explains Reuben Badana, President of SAPICS (The Association for Operations Management of Southern Africa).
‘The beat goes on’ refers to the need for our profession to maintain momentum, to not miss a beat, even after the frenzy of the Soccer World Cup is behind us, explains Badana.
The 32nd Annual SAPICS Conference and Exhibition takes place at Sun City in July 2010, hot on the heels of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, the timing of which has prompted the choice of the 2010 conference theme.
“If business in Africa was set to a musical score, then the run-up to the 2010 FIFA World Cup would be marked by the frenetic beating of African drums,” enthuses Badana. “The hype has been enormous, the anticipation palpable, and for the supply chain and logistics profession, the World Cup has posed an unrivalled challenge. Much has been written about the logistics challenges – from transporting some half a million visitors and accommodating them, to feeding them, entertaining them and keeping them safe. But when it’s over, the beat must go on. It will no longer be wild and exuberant, as it was ahead of the Soccer World Cup, but it will be strong and steady. The supply chain profession will have faced the demands of this historic event, and it will be back to business as usual.”
Supply chain professionals must not miss a beat as they continue to move African industry forward, and at the aim of the 32nd Annual SAPICS Conference and Exhibition, is to show delegates how to maintain the momentum, success and excitement generated by the FIFA World Cup.
SAPICS is currently finalising the line-up of exciting and world renowned presenters for the 2010 conference, which takes place at Sun City from July 25 to 27, 2010. It will once again be held in collaboration with the Supply Chain Council.
For further information please contact Cynthia at the Conference Secretariat, upavon@icon.co.za.
