How to ensure that PJSC “Ukrzaliznytsia” and suppliers have adequate, equitable, and mutually beneficial cooperation!

The issue of interaction between suppliers and logistics companies has always been relevant. This is especially important for PJSC “Ukrzaliznytsia,” the national railway carrier of Ukraine, which is responsible for transporting a variety of goods, this is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

This article is based on numerous discussions with suppliers on the topical issue of “How do you find working as a supplier to PJSC ‘UZ’?” and numerous meetings, conferences, and discussions with representatives of PJSC “Ukrzaliznytsia.”

In this article, Denis Korolev, an authorized representative of LLC “LEBEDIN MBDZ PLANT ‘TEMP’,” suggests considering how to ensure that PJSC “Ukrzaliznytsia” hears the opinions of suppliers of critically important goods.

Establishing direct contact with PJSC “Ukrzaliznytsia”

The first step is to establish direct contact between suppliers and PJSC “Ukrzaliznytsia.”

This can be achieved through various meetings, conferences, or forums where representatives of both sides can discuss their issues and problems.

This approach will allow the opinions and ideas of suppliers to be more effectively conveyed.It is worth noting that on March 26, 2024, PJSC “Ukrzaliznytsia” held the “Supplier Day 2024” — the first conference in the company’s history dedicated to procurement issues, conducted in a “round table” format, where questions were raised with Suppliers.Suppliers asked PJSC “Ukrzaliznytsia” a number of questions, but the response to them was: “Submit proposals on Prozorro…,” meaning that the entire purpose of the “round table” boiled down to “another phrase.”

In other words, the “round table” was typical, within which the essence and key questions were not disclosed, there was no clear and understandable discussion, and no specific proposals for cooperation were voiced, except for the phrase mentioned above.

The only thing that was said was, “We plan to hold another ’round table’ in April…”

Creating an open dialogue with PJSC “Ukrzaliznytsia”PJSC

“Ukrzaliznytsia” should create an open and constructive dialogue with suppliers.

To do this, I propose using various communication platforms, such as online forums or specialized web portals, where participants will include UZ specialists (lawyers, tender committee specialists, representatives of UZ procurement departments, technical specialists) and supplier representatives.It is important to provide suppliers with the opportunity to express their opinions and share their views on issues affecting their work and the transportation of goods.

Moreover, it is equally important to hear the opinions of UZ specialists (supply quality, delivery speed, price reduction, etc.).

I propose mutual, bilateral partnership, rather than one-sided expression of “wishes” from suppliers!

Establishing feedback with PJSC “Ukrzaliznytsia”

In order for PJSC “Ukrzaliznytsia” to hear the opinions of suppliers, it is necessary to organize a feedback system!!!It is important for suppliers to be able to submit their proposals, comments, or complaints directly to PJSC “Ukrzaliznytsia,” and to be confident that their messages will be considered and taken into account.

This will allow for a mutually beneficial partnership between UZ and suppliers.

Active participation of suppliers of goods and services of PJSC “Ukrzaliznytsia”

Suppliers should also actively participate in the feedback process and provide constructive proposals to PJSC “Ukrzaliznytsia.”

They should have the opportunity to propose new ideas for improving logistics processes, discuss potential problems, and together with PJSC “Ukrzaliznytsia,” find optimal solutions!

Such partnership will make both parties more responsible and improve service quality!Interaction between PJSC “Ukrzaliznytsia” and suppliers of critically important goods is a key factor for effective freight transportation.

In order for PJSC “Ukrzaliznytsia” to hear the opinions of suppliers, and for suppliers not to “inflate” prices unjustifiably, it is necessary to establish direct contact, create an open dialogue, organize a feedback system, and actively involve suppliers in improving the quality and speed of deliveries with indication of adequate commercial proposals and market prices!

Only in this way can mutual understanding and trust be achieved between both parties and ensure the efficient operation of the supply network for PJSC “Ukrzaliznytsia.”

Authorized representative of LLC “LEBEDIN MBDZ PLANT ‘TEMP'”

Denis Korolev

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