We have completely revised our procedures for supplier rating in the course of the constant optimisation of our supply chain. It is now a combination of objective criteria, such as delivery reliability and product quality, and the subjective assessment of interfaces like flexibility, strategic significance, communication, etc. In compliance with the Leica purchasing strategy, the rating system is subdivided into seven, differently weighted, main categories. The maximum number of points achievable is 100. This results in the following ratings:

A-rated supplier / preferred supplier

A-rated suppliers - suppliers with comprehensive and very good performance are given preferential consideration when placing contracts. Should a supplier have played an essential role in the development of prototypes and more favourable pricing is offered by competitors, such suppliers are offered an opportunity to revise their bids.

B-rated supplier

B-rated suppliers are suppliers with comprehensive and good services, but with as yet unexploited potential for improvement.

C-rated supplier

The performance of these suppliers is insufficient for the needs of Leica Camera AG in the long term. Here, there is extreme development potential still to be realised.

D-rated supplier

Suppliers with inconsistent performance. Immediate measures must be taken to improve performance.