After years of hype, the 3D printing industry has moved onto a more critical examination of the value-add that effective additive manufacturing adoption brings to businesses and supply chains. In a recent episode on 3D printing, the technology innovation podcast ‘Tomorrow’s Tech by IDTechEx’ explored the history and benefits of this versatile technology, which has existed for over 30 years yet is still finding new applications and end-users in many major sectors.
Critical Issues: Manufacturing/Supply Chain
Critical issues are thought provoking articles relating to strategy, legislation, technology, best practice and some of the most challenging business topics in the world of manufacturing and supply chain information technology. The articles in this section have been contributed by leading vendors, industry leaders, research analysts, trade associations and consultancies and cover a variety of topics relating to the manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, transportation and distribution marketplace across Europe. They look at market trends, improvements in technology and some thought provoking comment on all aspects of optimising and improving efficiencies throughout the supply chain from raw material to finished product.
Other important topics covered in this section concern Health and Safety in Logistics with articles from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE).Taxation, government policy, climate change, recruitment and training schemes are all covered, as well as educational opportunities at various UK logistics educational facilities such at Cranfield University.
Hobbyist astime or industrial evolution? IDTechEx explores the maturing 3D printing industry
Apr 16, 2024
Online shoppers are demanding faster and more convenient delivery options
Apr 15, 2024
A new study looking at delivery preferences when ordering online has confirmed that consumers want retailers to provide faster and more convenient delivery options.
63% of the logistics sector report shortage of digital skills, new data finds
Apr 15, 2024
New data from the 2024 UK logistics digital infrastructure report has revealed a significant digital skills gap within the UK logistics sector, with 63% of companies reporting a shortage of digital talent.
4 strategies for cyber-safe remote work
Apr 11, 2024
The landscape of work has transformed dramatically since the global COVID-19 pandemic, with remote work becoming increasingly prevalent across most industries. However, along with the benefits of remote work come significant cybersecurity challenges. Here’s how you and your business can address these issues and safeguard your sensitive data.
Aramex UK sheds light on transporting temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals to warmer climates
Apr 11, 2024
Aramex UK has urged pharmaceutical companies exporting products overseas to be mindful about shipping to warmer climates.
Aras study finds 80% of industrial companies unprepared for the use of AI
Apr 10, 2024
Aras, provider of product lifecycle management (PLM) and digital thread solutions, has announced findings from its report, ‘Spotlight on the Future 2024’, highlighting that nearly 80% of industrial companies lack the knowledge or capacity to successfully use artificial intelligence (AI).
Laying the groundwork for effective delivery and returns management
Apr 10, 2024
By Johan Hellman, VP Product and Carrier, nShift.
For multichannel and ecommerce retailers and their logistics partners, the first months of the year are when crucial groundwork is done to learn the lessons from last year’s peak season. However, although total retail sales were up at the end of 2023, the increase was significantly down on the previous year.
Anything to declare? Ensuring efficiency in cross-border logistics
Apr 09, 2024
In our globalised economy, an incredible volume of goods crosses international borders every day. While displaying key information on parcels is essential for clearing customs, many countries are tightening regulations to stop fraudulent, dangerous and illegal goods entering their markets. In most cases, sellers are now required to submit parcel data to customs or postal services before sending, but providing this can be costly and time consuming.
Cybersecurity on a budget: How small businesses can keep safe
Apr 03, 2024
As cybercriminals target businesses of all sizes, the misconception persists that effective protection is beyond the reach of smaller budgets. However, the reality is that cost-effective solutions do exist for businesses of all sizes.
Is bias deterring women from health & safety careers? AI reveals ‘pale, male, stale’ image
Apr 03, 2024
Images of health and safety professionals generated by AI are exclusively white, male and around middle age, despite the wealth of job opportunities health & safety offers to women.
Manufacturing Critical Issues
The manufacturing industry is facing a number of critical issues, including:
- Supply chain disruptions. The COVID-19 pandemic and geo-political tensions/war has caused widespread disruption to global supply chains, and this is having a significant impact on manufacturing. Manufacturers are struggling to get the raw materials and components they need to produce their products, and this is leading to shortages and delays.
- Labour shortage. The manufacturing industry is facing a labor shortage, as there are not enough skilled workers available to fill open positions. This is due to a number of factors, including the aging workforce, the decline of manufacturing in some countries, and the lack of educational opportunities in STEM fields.
- Rising costs. The cost of manufacturing is rising, due to factors such as the rising cost of raw materials, energy, and transportation. This is putting pressure on manufacturers' margins and making it difficult for them to compete.
- Technology adoption. The manufacturing industry is facing the challenge of adopting new technologies, such as automation and artificial intelligence. These technologies can help manufacturers to improve efficiency and productivity, but they can also be expensive and disruptive to implement.
- Environmental regulations. Manufacturers are facing increasing environmental regulations, which are forcing them to change their production processes. This can be costly and time-consuming, but it is essential for manufacturers to comply with these regulations in order to remain competitive.
Supply Chain Critical Issues
The global supply chain has been facing a number of critical issues in recent years, including
- Labour shortages: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to labor shortages in many industries, including manufacturing, transportation, and warehousing. This has made it difficult to find and retain workers, which has led to delays and disruptions in the supply chain.
- Equipment shortages: The global supply chain is also facing shortages of equipment, such as containers, trucks, and ships. This is due to a number of factors, including the pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and increased demand for goods.
- Port congestion: Port congestion has been a major issue in recent years, as ships have been waiting for days or even weeks to unload their cargo. This is due to a number of factors, including increased demand, labor shortages, and weather events.
- Demand volatility: Demand for goods has been volatile in recent years, as consumers have shifted their spending habits due to the pandemic. This has made it difficult for businesses to forecast demand and manage their supply chains accordingly.
- Natural disasters: Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes, can also disrupt the supply chain. These events can damage infrastructure, disrupt transportation, and destroy inventory.
