#Sands China #Macao SMEs #Procurement Academy #Macao

Celebrating Excellence: Sands Supplier Awards and Local SME Graduations

On a momentous day at The Parisian® Macao, Sands China gathered to celebrate the remarkable achievements of its esteemed suppliers during the Sands Supplier Excellence Awards. This event, held on a Tuesday, was not just a mere award ceremony but a significant occasion where the company recognized the long-standing partnerships it has formed with local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through its Sands Procurement Academy.

The Sands Supplier Excellence Awards, a prestigious annual initiative by Las Vegas Sands Corp., serves to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of select suppliers who have demonstrated exceptional cooperation, innovation, and service. A specialized committee formed by Sands China’s executive management meticulously selected the winners from a pool of global suppliers. In total, seven awards were presented, recognizing categories such as Corporate Culture, Innovation, Cost Management, Quality Management, Project Management, Service Excellence, and Small/Medium Enterprises.

Acknowledgment of Local SMEs' Contributions

The event also saw the graduation of the 15th and 16th cohorts of local SMEs from Sands’ Procurement Academy training program. This academy, established in 2017, has been pivotal in equipping local suppliers with the necessary knowledge and skill sets to thrive in collaboration with major international corporations like Sands China. By promoting business acumen amongst SMEs, the academy significantly contributes to the growth of their enterprises.

With 73 local SMEs graduating this year, the total number of graduates since the academy's inception has reached 559. These graduates partake in a structured curriculum that empowers them with practical business insights tailored to meet the demands of working with large corporations. The Sands Procurement Academy is jointly organized with notable local institutions, aiming to extend its reach beyond initial key categories to a broader audience of SMEs in Macao.

Networking and Community Connections

Following the award presentations, graduates had the opportunity to engage with various Sands China departments during a cocktail and business networking session. This gathering not only allowed for the exchange of ideas but also strengthened the community bonds between local businesses and Sands China.

Dr. Wilfred Wong, Executive Vice Chairman of Sands China Ltd., expressed profound gratitude towards all award winners and graduates, underscoring the company's commitment to fostering relationships within the Macao economic landscape. “For over two decades, Sands China has been a key player in Macao's economy, and we are devoted to supporting SMEs, which constitute over 90% of the region’s registered enterprises,” he stated. Dr. Wong further noted that through continued procurement from local suppliers and comprehensive training initiatives, the advantage of collaborating with international firms has been realized by many local entrepreneurs.

Highlighting Success Stories of Local SMEs

Alongside the awards, the event also spotlighted success stories of SMEs that have flourished through their partnership with Sands China. A series of inspiring narratives, published in local newspapers since 2016, showcase how these SMEs have enhanced their capabilities and competencies thanks to their collaborations. Dr. Wong and Wong Cho Wai, Assistant Chief Editor of Macao Daily News, presented framed copies of these published stories to the featured SMEs, celebrating their resilience and achievements.

In total, 138 success stories have been disseminated, emphasizing the positive impact of Sands China's support on the growth and development of local businesses. These shared experiences foster motivation among other SMEs, encouraging them to pursue growth opportunities within the hospitality and tourism sector.

A Commitment to Local Growth

Sands China has consistently engaged in corporate social responsibility initiatives by advocating local procurement and supporting the growth of Macao's SMEs. With a procurement spend of MOP 10.3 billion in 2024, local SMEs have benefitted significantly, receiving 29% of this total. This strong commitment affirms Sands China’s role as a pillar of Macao's economy and a firm ally to local businesses.

In conclusion, the Sands Supplier Excellence Awards and Sands Procurement Academy graduation represented more than an event; they were a manifestation of community spirit, commitment to excellence, and the shared vision to promote mutual growth between Sands China and local SMEs. As the region continues to evolve and adapt amid changing business landscapes, these collaborations are essential for ensuring a sustainable economic future for all stakeholders involved.