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

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Chapman Freeborn Show the Way Air Cargo Has Helped During the Pandemic

1 Chapman Freeborn Show the Way Air Cargo Has Helped During the Pandemic

The aviation industry has been one of the hardest hit by the pandemic. However, Chapman Freeborn have shown how the sector has stepped up to help during the crisis. Here, we’ll look at how the company has helped throughout the pandemic and the challenges the sector has faced.

What can go wrong with your MES implementation?

2 What can go wrong with your MES implementation?

MES systems can significantly benefit your company, but the implementation may be somewhat overwhelming and can pose challenges that could be difficult and time-consuming to overcome. In the following article, you will learn about issues that you can potentially encounter in your MES implementation and practical recommendations on how to avoid them.

Disruption in manufacturing sector due to Brexit will have sizeable negative impact on UK economy, new academic report finds

3 Disruption in manufacturing sector due to Brexit will have sizeable negative impact on UK economy, new academic report finds

Brexit will have significant adverse effects on a UK manufacturing sector highly integrated with the EU single market, and that disruption will have a sizeable negative impact on the wider UK economy, a new report by UK in a Changing Europe finds.

Manufacturers must rethink global operations in face of COVID-19 - study

4 Manufacturers must rethink global operations in face of COVID-19 - study

Manufacturers must redesign and reform their Global Supply Chains or Global Production Networks (GPN) if they want to survive and prosper in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, a new study reveals.

How retailers can implement temperature screening to ensure customer safety post-lockdown

5 How retailers can implement temperature screening to ensure customer safety post-lockdown

As lockdown restrictions are being gradually eased across the country, industries of all types must now consider additional health and safety measures, to ensure a safe re-opening.

Breaking down internal barriers in companies crucial amid increasing digitisation, Accenture study finds

6 Breaking down internal barriers in companies crucial amid increasing digitisation, Accenture study finds

Many companies do not realise the full value of investing in digital projects due to a lack of collaboration among their critical business functions, according to a new study by Accenture (NYSE: ACN).

Brexit: Uncertainty remains but supply chain preparations are a priority

7 Brexit: Uncertainty remains but supply chain preparations are a priority

Brexit is back in the headlines, but to those responsible for preparing supply chains in the region there is more frustration than ever. On the one hand, the UK has confirmed it will not be extending the Brexit transition period beyond 31 December.

Shops reopening - but can the supply chain cope?

8 Shops reopening - but can the supply chain cope?

As the UK lockdown is lifted, retailers must be on their toes when it comes to predicting and meeting customer demand with supply chain agility and resiliency.

Giesecke+Devrient: Greater focus on cybersecurity a must as corona pandemic leads to surge in digitisation

9 Giesecke+Devrient: Greater focus on cybersecurity a must as corona pandemic leads to surge in digitisation

The spread of the corona pandemic has shifted large parts of work and communication into digital space within a very short time. It has become obvious: The security of networks and communication infrastructures is more important than ever - especially in light of increasing cyber threats.

UK manufacturing firms unprepared for the ‘new normal’ in the workplace

10 UK manufacturing firms unprepared for the ‘new normal’ in the workplace

With the government now a week into its 50-page roadmap out of lockdown, a new report suggests that UK manufacturing firms were one of the least prepared sectors for the rise of flexible working pre-lockdown.

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.

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