Komatsu Australia has hosted its second annual industry supplier forum, which brought together 15 senior executives across their supply chain to share perspectives, challenge ideas, make connections and collaborate on key issues that will impact not only each organisation, but their people, and the wider industry.
Three key topics were tackled by attendees – ESG, safety, and generational diversity – which Komatsu Australia’s EGM for Supply Chain, Russell Hodson, says were hotly discussed at the forum.
“We know these topics are top of the agenda for many businesses, and felt it was important we heard from those in our supply chain we deal with every day to connect, learn and collaborate together,” he said.
“Particularly of interest was how we all need to be prepared for the upcoming ESG reporting requirements as we look towards 2026, particularly around scope 3, and what it means for not only Komatsu but our supply chain partners.”
Some interesting takeaways from attendees included Team Global Express, who shared their insights on the chain of responsibility with freight and logistics and ongoing vigilance to make sure roads are safe when transporting heavy equipment.
Castrol shared an overview of their holistic program – PATH30 – to help accelerate the move to a more sustainable future, and Hudson RPO were able to talk about the importance of intergenerational diversity in the workplace, and how we can harness different perspectives across generations to better the way we work.
“We had representatives from freight and logistics, waste, travel, HR, parts and attachments, all critical players in our supply chain who welcomed the opportunity to align on these key, and common, topics,” Russell said.
Komatsu on the front foot of key issues
Russell says the business was also able to share some key updates and learnings from across Komatsu as well at the forum.
“We were excited to share our update on our journey to ISO 45001 accreditation, which we expect to see finalised in the first half of 2025,” Russell said.
“This will mean we will be accredited and recognised globally for our commitment to OH&S in the workplace and reducing safety hazards, while promoting a safe workforce.
“We also shared learnings as we all plan for mandatory ESG reporting requirements – how we’re collecting and analysing data, and what challenges we’re facing – which was very beneficial to see where we each stand.
“And finally, one topic that is always high on the agenda of our industry is inclusion and diversity. Along with our own focus on intergenerational diversity, we also shared more on Komatsu’s role in the Champions of Change coalition and the recent launch of the FOCUSED on Everyday Respect resource, which equips to help identify and prevent everyday disrespect while fostering inclusive, safe, and productive environments in the workplace.”
He said that as an industry leader across the mining, construction and utility sectors, it was important the company brings together key players to discuss issues that impact the way they do business together.
“These issues that are important to Komatsu but are critical to get right throughout all our supply chains, so it was great to hear from others and learn about processes and initiatives each business is implementing and championing,” he said.
Komatsu named in APAC Top 10
Continuing on with the focus on supporting a strong and resilient supply chain, Komatsu has recently been announced as number three in the Gartner Supply Chain rankings for APAC.
Gartner’s Supply Chain Top 25 is an annual recognition of achievement and advancement of supply chain capabilities. This research showcases the best practices of the top 10 leading supply chains from Asia/Pacific for CSCOs to leverage and gain insights.
Russell said Komatsu was recognised following particularly strong financial growth over the last three years combined with its leading corporate culture.
“We know that a great product deserves a great supply chain, and our supply chain has been able to support our business through some really challenging times and growth. Our three-year weighted average revenue growth was the highest in the APAC top 10 at 19.5 per cent, which is driven by the strong demand for mining equipment with sustained stability in resource prices,” he said.
“We were also acknowledged by Gartner for our corporate culture, where our people exercise autonomy in identifying issues, implementing necessary improvements and innovating through teamwork. They also recognised our recently launched Komatsu Global Portal, which improves information sharing and operational transparency with business partners, boosting efficiency and responsiveness.
“Gartner felt these examples all clearly demonstrated our strong commitment ability to provide value across our supply chain, and we’re delighted to have made the top 10 list.”