Winner: Bayer AG 

Partners: Taulia GmbH, J.P. Morgan 

Bayer AG, in partnership with Taulia GmbH and J.P. Morgan, has been honoured in the Excellence in Approved Payable Finance category for its outstanding contributions to supply chain finance. Their global programme is a benchmark in the industry, offering a comprehensive and efficient solution that supports suppliers across diverse regions and currencies. The programme, which spans 370 suppliers worldwide, demonstrates Bayer’s commitment to fostering strong supplier relationships while maintaining operational efficiency. The jury was especially impressed by the size of the programme, that reached 370 enrolled suppliers. 

At the heart of their approach is a “one-stop-shop” platform designed to simplify supplier onboarding processes and reduce technical complexities. The jury appreciated this setup, noting, ‘‘The one-stop-shop approach of this setup simplifies supplier onboarding (two weeks) and technical integration.” This solution streamlines operations by integrating early payment options directly into the payable system, ensuring suppliers can access liquidity with ease. The jury also highlighted, “The platform increases visibility into payments and invoice status for suppliers, and the early payment option is embedded in the same platform […] this is a great advantage for suppliers, who otherwise need to deal with multiple tools.” 

A key feature of Bayer’s programme is its ability to handle the complexities of operating across multiple countries and currencies, providing flexibility and adaptability to meet the needs of its diverse supplier base. The programme’s scope (in size and geographic dimensions) is well aligned with a ‘Global Working Capital Strategy’ and is as a critical factor in the programme’s success. This global scope ensures that suppliers, regardless of location, can participate seamlessly, reinforcing Bayer’s dedication to inclusivity and accessibility. 

In the increasingly competitive landscape of SCF, Bayer’s programme stands out for its excellent execution, not only from a financial perspective but also for its commitment to fostering cross-functional collaboration. The successful alignment of procurement, treasury, legal, and IT teams highlights the programme’s integrated approach, ensuring the programme is sustainable, scalable, and aligned with the company’s long-term strategy. The jury noted, “Amounts managed and geographical coverage, along with the percentage of amounts prepaid, underscore the programme’s comprehensive reach and impact.” As the demands of modern supply chains grow increasingly complex, Bayer’s SCF programme serves as a blueprint for organizations aiming to enhance supplier relationships while driving sustainable and transparent financing solutions. 

By embedding early payment options into the system, Bayer not only improves cash flow for their suppliers but also strengthens their financial resilience. This approach is particularly beneficial for smaller suppliers, who often face challenges in securing working capital. The programme aligns with Bayer’s overarching global working capital strategy, which prioritizes transparency, efficiency, and mutual benefit within the supply chain. 

This award recognizes Bayer AG’s leadership in supply chain finance and their ability to implement a programme that not only meets but exceeds industry standards. Their commitment to strengthening supplier relationships, boosting transparency, and driving operational effectiveness is bound to set the standard for what it means to excel in approved payable finance.