Alex Veitch, General Manager for Public Policy at Logistics UK, the business group representing the sector, said in response to the freeing of the EverGiven today (29 March 2021)
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.
The one-stop shop advantage
Apr 01, 2021
Manufacturing & Logistics IT spoke with Philip Jarrett, commercial director of Dakota Integrated Solutions, about the company’s focus on a one-stop shop data capture solutions service for customers in a variety of sectors, together with the company’s new focus on Voice-directed solutions provision.
Congratulations, you’ve just hired new brand ambassadors. They’re your delivery drivers
Mar 31, 2021
It’s not just video calls that boomed over the pandemic. Online sales have exploded with physical shopping being restricted and social contact curtailed.
Why supply chains are today’s fastest growing cybersecurity threat
Mar 30, 2021
Business ecosystems have expanded over the years owing to the many benefits of diverse, interconnected supply chains, prompting organizations to pursue close, collaborative relationships with their suppliers.
Order errors costing retailers £951m per year
Mar 30, 2021
Almost half (47%) of online shoppers have received an order in error, a new survey conducted by Opinipoll on behalf of Breathe Technologies has revealed, potentially costing retailers £951m* each year in fulfilment.
Retail’s 2.2% sales rise is ‘dead cat bounce’, says ParcelHero
Mar 30, 2021
Figures released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show a slight rise of 2.2% in the value of retail sales against last month (February). This is just a bounce, though, as sales figures hit rock bottom, says the home delivery expert ParcelHero.
Challenges and opportunities - SCM Technology report
Mar 29, 2021
Supply Chain Management Technology Report
Manufacturing & Logistics IT spoke with leading vendors and analysts within the supply chain management arena about some of the current key talking points and areas of innovation within this fascinating and all-important technology landscape.
How Can Developers Make Their APIs Successful?
Mar 29, 2021
By Ron Evan, freelance writer.
An API (Applications Programming Interface) is a programming interface that dictates how different software applications interact and share data to enhance their operations.A successful API is not only one that meets its obligations without failure but also one that is easy to implement and use.
Logistics UK statement on the creation of four new Trade and Investment hubs
Mar 29, 2021
In response to the Department for International Trade’s announcement of the creation of four new Trade and Investment Hubs in Edinburgh, Cardiff, Belfast and Darlington, Sarah Laouadi, Manager of European & International Policy at Logistics UK, comments:
How Do You Automate Packaging Operations Using Robots?
Mar 26, 2021
When running a business, quite possibly the most vital thing is to ensure that expenses don't sky rocket. Making a competitive item is crucial but making the item accessible to clients at realistic costs without compromising quality separates you from your rivals.
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.
