Sands China celebrates local suppliers and SMEs at award ceremony

In Macau, on November 27, 2024, Sands China held a significant event to honour local suppliers at the Sands Supplier Excellence Awards. This occasion also marked the graduation ceremony for the 15th and 16th cohorts of local SMEs from Sands Procurement Academy. The event aimed to connect local suppliers with different departments within Sands China, facilitating networking opportunities between SMEs and the company's procurement and supply chain teams. Since its inception in 2017, the Sands Procurement Academy has seen a total enrollment of 602 suppliers, with 559 graduates by this date. The collaboration between Sands China and local SMEs has highlighted numerous success stories, reinforcing the importance of small and medium-sized enterprises in Macao's economic landscape. The Sands Supplier Excellence Awards is an annual initiative that acknowledges the contributions and services of noteworthy suppliers from around the world. The selection of award winners is conducted by a committee comprising Sands China executive management who evaluate suppliers based on their performance and cooperation. The 2024 ceremony exemplified the ongoing commitment of Sands China to encourage local businesses by showcasing their achievements and fostering relationships to solidify their roles in the local economy. Companies in Macao heavily rely on SMEs, which account for over 90% of registered enterprises in the region. The event also featured the presentation of framed success stories of various SMEs that have partnered with Sands China, further inspiring graduates and attendees. The importance of enhancing the operational capacity of local SMEs through education and practical experiences cannot be overstated, as highlighted by the Sands Procurement Academy. In 2024 alone, Sands China has made MOP 10.3 billion in total procurement spending, with 29% allocated to local SMEs, demonstrating their commitment to supporting the local economy. Overall, the dual celebration of the awards and the academy's graduation created an enriching environment for both suppliers and attendees, promoting mutual growth and continued partnership between Sands China and local businesses. Dr. Wilfred Wong, executive vice chairman of Sands China Ltd., emphasized the company's dedication to community development, mentioning their growth alongside Macao’s economy over the past two decades.