Driving Smarter Procurement: Pardeep Sidhu Named AVK Innovation Award Winner
Pardeep Sidhu has been named Innovation Winner at the AVK Expect Awards 2026, in recognition of his contribution to driving smarter, more resilient procurement strategies across the business. 16-03-2026
The ‘Innovation’ award celebrates individuals who apply fresh thinking, challenge assumptions, and deliver meaningful improvements. Pardeep’s work highlights how innovation can extend beyond products and services into process, planning, and supply chain strategy.
Pardeep received the award for taking a more creative and data-driven approach to product sourcing and procurement, strengthening quality, consistency, and supply resilience across AVK’s operations.
“For the past three years or so I have been identifying potential alternative suppliers for components, products and materials. One of the most significant changes has been transitioning to a new supplier for the epoxy coating materials used across our Hyde and Corby operations. This shift has strengthened quality, consistency, and supply resilience, ensuring we can continue to meet customer expectations with confidence.
I have also been using data analysis to discuss and improve service delivery with established suppliers, which provides us with increased confidence in our demand forecasting to commit to certain volumes and agree improved service levels based on these commitments. It’s all about thinking smarter.”
Prior to joining AVK UK, Pardeep spent six years with Toyota at Derby where he developed a strong foundation in continuous improvement or Kaizen, an approach that continues to influence his work today.
In September, Pardeep travelled to China to source suppliers for components within the gas mains-to-meter range. Following this visit, AVK has progressed to receiving samples from potential new supply chain partners, supporting future growth and flexibility.
During meetings I worked with translators to communicate with suppliers, and AI tools were also used to support written communication. It’s a good example of how technology can help enable collaboration and improve efficiency in global supply chains.”
The AVK Expect Awards 2026, held at Ansty Hall, brought colleagues together from across the United Kingdom to celebrate those who turn AVK’s Expect Promises to life through their work.
Reflecting on the occasion, Pardeep said:
“I was really impressed with the Awards ceremony. It was very well organised and created a real buzz in the room. It was great to meet up with colleagues from across the wider AVK in the UK businesses. too.”
Read more about the Expect 2026 Awards here and see a list of all the winners from across AVK in the UK.
