By Alain Breillatt, Vice President, Product Marketing at Logistyx Technologies.
The rapid and safe delivery of billions of doses of various Covid-19 vaccines worldwide is possibly the biggest challenge that the logistics industry will face.
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.
Creating Supply Chain Flexibility for Fast and Efficient Covid-19 Vaccine Distribution
Jan 06, 2021
What does the future hold for retailers?
Jan 05, 2021
Shopping habits are changing, and retailers are doing an exceptional job at keeping up and adjusting their business models with the help of technology to meet these ever-changing shifts. With many high streets still struggling but the desire to shop local remaining strong, retailers are looking at a very different future than they would have imagined this time last year.
IT innovation; you’re only scratching the surface
Jan 04, 2021
By Rafael Funes, creator and executive chairman, LOVIS.
The Covid-19 pandemic has been a catalyst for change. We’ve had to become more resourceful, innovative and adaptive and going forward, only businesses with foresight and an ability to respond quickly to evolving situations will thrive.
Logistics UK launches Skills and Employment Report 2020
Jan 04, 2021
A new report from Logistics UK, the business group representing the industry that is at the heart of the UK’s economy, has highlighted the severe impact Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic is having on the sector’s underlying skills shortage.
96% of UK hauliers 'not ready for transition': many need clarity on border legislation and overwhelmed by admin
Jan 01, 2021
With nearly 1 in 4 UK hauliers having already lost business due to Brexit, they reveal whether they’re prepared for the post-Brexit transition period.
Brexit deal protects economy, but still much to do says Logistics UK
Dec 31, 2020
Business group Logistics UK has reacted with optimism to the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) reached between the UK and EU, but has cautioned that there is still much to be done to protect the nation’s supply chains, and the economy as a whole.
How being a ‘remote-first’ business can improve your organisation
Dec 30, 2020
By Gerry Tombs, CEO, Clearvision
In the last few days, there has been encouraging news about COVID-19 vaccines, with the vaccination programme kicking off across the country. And while there’s still a lot of green between this particular ball and the pocket, most of us let out a sigh of relief, with hope that there might be some return to normality.
A bare-bones Brexit deal for traders, but a no-deal Brexit for many other sectors
Dec 30, 2020
The trade and security deal the UK Government struck with the EU is a bare-bones deal for tariff-free trade in goods, but a no-deal for many other business sectors, creating significant frictions and less EU market access from 1 January, according to tax and advisory firm Blick Rothenberg.
Digital transformation predictions for 2021
Dec 25, 2020
While 2020 was a year of innovation in digital services, the focus in 2021 is likely to be more about consolidation. After ensuring over the past 12 months that employees could work remotely, the next step is to keep users at the heart of digital strategies.
Tips on tackling stress over Christmas
Dec 24, 2020
Ezra, the global provider of digital coaching, presents some tips on getting the most out of the Christmas period.
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.
