CPIM Certification in the United Kingdom: Course, Exam and How to Enrol
A post Brexit trade landscape that has put customs, resilience and end to end planning skills at a premium across UK manufacturing, retail and 3PL, this is the backdrop against which UK supply chain professionals build careers today. UK manufacturers, retailers and 3PLs run mature planning organisations where CPIM is a recognised requirement for planning roles. The CPIM 8.0, Certified in Planning and Inventory Management is the planning and inventory credential, nine CPIM 9.0 modules covering strategy alignment, S&OP, demand, internal and external supply, inventory, detailed scheduling, distribution and continuous improvement, with a single 150 question exam, and it is available to professionals across London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds and Brighton through Blue Ocean Academy.
What the CPIM program covers
The APICS CPIM is the planning and inventory credential, nine CPIM 9.0 modules covering strategy alignment, S&OP, demand, internal and external supply, inventory, detailed scheduling, distribution and continuous improvement, with a single 150 question exam. Candidates pass a single computer based exam of 150 questions in 3.5 hours (300 on a 200 to 350 scale to pass), available at Pearson VUE centres and online via OnVUE, and maintain the credential with 75 points every five years.
Who it is for in the United Kingdom
Demand and supply planners, master schedulers, production and materials planners, inventory managers, S&OP leads and ERP users, in UK employers across manufacturing, distribution, retail, logistics, energy and the public sector. ASCM's 2025 report shows CPIM holders at a median of about $100,000 versus roughly $85,000 with no credential; the 2026 report puts the APICS certification premium at around 20%.
How Blue Ocean Academy delivers it in the United Kingdom
- Classroom and live online batches serving London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds and Brighton, schedules built around working professionals
- Instructor led preparation on the current APICS Learning System with practice questions, timed mock exams and expert coaching
- Corporate delivery for teams, in house programs for UK organisations upskilling whole functions
- Career support from an institute with more than 25 years in the region and tens of thousands of certified alumni
Frequently asked questions
Can I take the CPIM program online from London?
Yes, live online batches are open to participants anywhere in the United Kingdom, alongside classroom options. Enquire for the next start date.
Where do I sit the CPIM exam?
At any Pearson VUE test centre in the United Kingdom or online through OnVUE, on demand year round.
What comes after this?
Many professionals stack a second credential, ASCM reports up to a 32% premium for three or more. See the full supply chain portfolio.
