Celebrating Excellence: IFE 2025 Supplier Awards

At IFE 2025, we had the privilege of recognizing the exceptional partners who power Optimas’ global supply network. These awards highlight the critical role our suppliers play in delivering the reliability, innovation, and quality that our customers depend on.

Quality Excellence Award: KPF Vietnam

This award is presented annually to the company whose rigorous standards, quality manufacturing processes and robust quality management system contributed most to Optimas’ zero-defect culture–while minimizing the cost of non-conforming product and maintaining in-full and on-time deliveries.

While there were numerous worthy candidates this year, one company stood above the rest: KPF Vietnam. Their unwavering commitment to quality excellence demonstrates how strategic partnerships can drive operational success across global supply chains.

KPF Vietnam’s dedication to zero-defect manufacturing aligns perfectly with our commitment to deliver flawless products to our customers. Their consistent performance, even amid global supply chain pressures, exemplifies the kind of partnership we value most.

Processing Excellence Award: SWD Plating (Addison, IL)

This award recognizes the critical role secondary finishers play in the total value proposition Optimas presents to our customers – not only reliable, traditional coatings but innovative solutions for new and demanding applications combined with flexible scheduling to accommodate demand variability.

This past year, no company better embodied all these characteristics than SWD Plating (Addison, IL). Their ability to balance traditional coating excellence with cutting-edge innovation has been instrumental in meeting our customers’ evolving requirements.

In an era where supply chain flexibility is paramount, SWD Plating’s adaptability and creative problem-solving have proven invaluable. Their willingness to pivot operations and develop new finishing solutions demonstrates the agility that defines successful partnerships today.

Supplier of the Year Award: Continental-Aero (Alsip, IL)

The Supplier of the Year Award recognizes the company that most closely aligns with Optimas’ core values and embodies the strength, efficiency and resilience of our global supply network.

Our 2025 winner worked tirelessly helping us align supply with demand, met multiple difficult deadlines and brought creative cost reduction initiatives to the table. We are honored to present this Supplier of the Year Award to: Continental-Aero (Alsip, IL).

Continental-Aero exemplifies what it means to be a true supply chain partner. Their proactive approach to challenges and commitment to continuous improvement have strengthened our entire network’s capability.

Building Stronger Supply Networks Together

As we reflected during our recent webinar on mitigating supply chain risk, the partnerships we forge today determine our collective resilience tomorrow. These award winners represent more than exceptional suppliers – they are integral components of a supply ecosystem designed to weather disruption and deliver consistent value.

The three elements of our logo visualize the inter-dependence we share with supply partners like you and our customers. This interconnected relationship has never been more critical as we navigate an increasingly complex global trade environment.

Looking Ahead

Recognition at IFE 2025 marks not just celebration of past achievements, but a foundation for future collaboration. As supply chains continue evolving, partnerships like these will be essential in maintaining the agility and reliability our customers expect.

Optimas deeply appreciates your ongoing collaboration and the role you play in our journey. Together, we’re building supply networks that don’t just respond to change – they anticipate it.

Continue the conversation with an Optimas Supply Chain expert

They can help you identify opportunities to strengthen partnerships and boost supply network efficiencies.