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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Research from Forescout and ICIT identifies ‘disruptionware’ as emerging cybersecurity threat

1 Research from Forescout and ICIT identifies ‘disruptionware’ as emerging cybersecurity threat

Forescout Technologies, Inc. has released a new report “Rise of Disruptionware: A Cyber-Physical Threat to Operational Technology Environments, that explores how the nature of cyber-attacks is changing.

The Ultimate Guide to Making Your Business Greener

2 The Ultimate Guide to Making Your Business Greener

If you want to boost the sustainability of your business, save some money, and better the world that you live and work in, you have to show an eco-friendly stance. No longer can you afford to rely on others to save the planet for you while your company goes about its own business.

Automation is the foundation for intelligent intralogistics

3 Automation is the foundation for intelligent intralogistics

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly of interest for organisations wrestling with new supply chain challenges. But can companies maximise the value of AI without a strong intralogistics foundation?

IMHX 2019: NEC Birmingham, 24 – 27 September 2019

4 IMHX 2019: NEC Birmingham, 24 – 27 September 2019

Are your warehousing costs higher than they should be? Probably. Most companies know what their warehouse is costing to run, but they have no idea what the minimum spend to operate their warehouse should be.

What is legacy software?

5 What is legacy software?

We’ve all heard the term legacy software, but who knows what it really means?, asks Nick Whiteley, CEO of HFX, workforce management systems.

Legacy Software simply put is the generalised term used for 'old outdated software and systems that are still in use'.

‘Bring on the Robots, but bring us with you’

6 ‘Bring on the Robots, but bring us with you’

Research from global analytics and advice firm, Gallup suggests that people feel unprepared for the introduction of new technologies, despite being optimistic about their job prospects.

UK businesses fear for Christmas supplies as Brexit disruption hits

7 UK businesses fear for Christmas supplies as Brexit disruption hits

Fourteen percent of UK businesses believe it will be difficult to break even this Christmas as a result of currency instability and Brexit uncertainty, according to a survey of supply chain managers by the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS).

What does AI really mean for retailers?

8 What does AI really mean for retailers?

What does AI really mean for retailers?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has undoubtedly become one of the biggest buzzwords of 2019 and its use within retail is only set to grow, not just for large market-leading retailers, but for retailers of all shapes and sizes across many sectors.

Make UK/Santander analysis shows Europe remains dominant market for UK goods

9 Make UK/Santander analysis shows Europe remains dominant market for UK goods

The importance of the UK agreeing a deal with the EU which avoids barriers to trade is laid bare today by new analysis which shows the value of trade with the bloc is worth more than twice that of the United States, with seven of the UK’s top export destinations being within the EU.

How To Make Your Supply Chain More Efficient

10 How To Make Your Supply Chain More Efficient

by James Daniels, freelance writer.

There are multiple benefits to creating a more efficient supply chain in your business, you’ll be able to cut unnecessary costs from your spending and respond more quickly to market changes, supply irregularities and fluctuating demand.

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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