BIZ Online NGLCC

Marketplaces—from local to global—are rapidly evolving, and businesses that embrace diversity are set to gain a competitive advantage.

Count that among the many reasons UPS, the world's largest package delivery company and a global leader in supply chain and freight services, has invested heavily in a world-class supplier diversity program that includes certified LGBT suppliers. In addition, UPS encourages the success and strength of LGBT businesses by offering discounts on shipping services for members of the NGLCC and affiliated chambers.

With more than 100 years of experience in transportation and logistics, the company is a leading global trade expert. UPS came early to the significance of diversity in business, and has earned the reputation of being one of its true champions.

Formed in 1992, the supplier diversity group at UPS quickly launched relationships with the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) and the Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC).

Today, it's not only actively involved in numerous NMSDC regional councils and all of WBENC's regional affiliate councils, it is also a vital partner with the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC). Its award-winning supplier diversity program, apart from providing business opportunities to enterprises owned by minorities, women and veterans, now provides the same opportunities to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) owned businesses.

"UPS has always had a very strong diversity philosophy, and we want the company to look like the communities it serves," says Lisa A. Johnson, UPS Procurement and Supplier Diversity Manager. "Partnering with the NGLCC is hugely important to us because it is a natural extension of a large, successful diversity program that UPS has had in place for the last 20 years."

UPS has been widely recognized for the success of its supplier diversity efforts by business groups such as the NMSDC, WBENC and Women Impacting Public Policy. Last year, the company won NMSDC's top corporate award and was listed as one of the top corporations for Women Business Enterprises by WBENC. Kathy Homeyer, UPS Supplier Diversity Program Director, has been recognized as one of the "first ladies of supplier diversity" by the Minority Business News (MBN) magazine.

UPS service and product needs are diverse and many. The company purchases services that range from advertising to building design to carpet installation, and its product requirements include office supplies, computer equipment, uniforms and forklifts.

UPS is also supporting LGBT businesses through their shipping discount program for members of the NGLCC and affiliated chambers throughout the country. Businesses have the opportunity to save up to 26 percent on UPS shipping services for every package shipped once they enroll online.

"The UPS shipping discount is a fantastic opportunity for all members of the NGLCC and our network of affiliate chambers. In today's economic climate, we are thrilled to partner with UPS to offer a discount that will significantly aid LGBT businesses in their daily operations," says Kate Karasmeighan, NGLCC Chief of Staff and Director of Affiliate Relations.

In addition to expanding its supplier diversity program to include LGBT-owned businesses and offering shipping discounts to the LGBT business community, UPS has also displayed an impressive commitment to LGBT employees. In 2007, the company received a 100 percent rating on the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index, which measures how employers treat LGBT employees based on factors such as non-discrimination policies, diversity training and benefits for domestic partners and transgender employees.

"We are incredibly proud to be working with UPS, one of the world's most recognized brands, to help our members grow their businesses," Justin Nelson, NGLCC President and Co-Founder said. "UPS is a strong advocate for the LGBT community and recognizes the incredible business opportunities LGBT companies have to offer."

NGLCC members are encouraged to sign up for the UPS shipping discount and start saving by visiting http://www.savewithups.com/glbt

Learn more about UPS's supplier diversity program by clicking here.