IQL is a professional services organisation that supplies the Cluster’s technology component and the support services needed to integrate the supply chain.
IQL’s involvement started with the work it did for Cotton SA in terms of its strategy and business model. In the context of the Cluster, however, Cotton SA’s role will become much bigger. Traditionally it looked at production, consumption, trade and stocks – namely the farmers, ginners and spinners. In future it will consider the complete supply chain, from the farmers to the retailers.
Hennie Ras, (Director Operations visibility solutions for IQ Logistica), says that cotton is the forerunner in the initiative to make the local textile industry sustainable and competitive. “Cotton cannot represent all the other industries, such as wool and mohair, but we have to work closely together so that the learning that has taken place in the Sustainable Cotton Cluster can be transferred to the other industries.”
In this regard IQL is much more than a technology partner. It also helps with the critically important change management that is needed at an executive level. “This is a pivotal point in the industry,” says Hennie. “The awareness is growing that players in the local industry don’t compete against each other; instead they compete together against other supply chains in the world. IQL is at the centre of this transformation process.”
