December 9th,
1999

Ford launches awards for Supplier Excellence
Ford Australia has initiated Supplier Excellence Awards as part of its
continuing dedication and commitment to quality.
Launched to coincide with Fords 75th anniversary during 2000, the
annual Ford Australia Supplier Excellence Awards will recognise the excellent work of
Fords best suppliers, and superior supplier performance.
"Our dedication to quality is a fundamental aspect of the integrity of our
products and the Ford name," said Ford Australia president Geoff Polites.
"Through these awards, were recognising that Ford cannot stand alone in this
area. Our success is the result of partnerships in the pursuit of excellence and
that includes partnerships with our suppliers as well as employees, dealers and
consumers."
A cross-functional team from within Ford Australia has developed judging criteria for
the awards which are open to all suppliers, including original equipment, Ford Customer
Service Division, and Ford material and service suppliers.
All suppliers will be reviewed against a set of minimum award targets covering the
areas of quality, cost, delivery, recalls, warranty and Q1 certification.
Successful finalists for the inaugural awards will be announced at the end of November.
"These are all areas that are extremely important to Ford globally. By including
these criteria in the awards, we are highlighting to those who work with us, just how
important they are," said Mr Polites.
Winners of the first Supplier Excellence Awards will be announced at a gala dinner on
February 10th, 2000.