By Dr Tom Mason, CEO of Bramble Energy,
Those in the energy systems business are all too aware of the huge potential held by hydrogen fuel cells.
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.
How innovation in manufacturing is helping address the top 3 challenges holding back a hydrogen fuel cell revolution
May 13, 2024
The Letterverse: Digital twins help postal and logistics companies plan for the future
May 13, 2024
Outside of fantasy novels, nobody has a crystal ball to see into the future. However, postal services and logistics companies are building digital twins to achieve just that. Powered by data-driven virtual models that can simulate real-world operations, digital twins are allowing the sector to predict the future and plan for it.
The world at the shelf-edge
May 13, 2024
Giving customers choice is about giving them help to find the right product or group of products. Peter Ward, UK County Manager at Pricer, explains how to help customers but at the same time grow basket sizes and value.
How Eyewear Retailers Use Augmented Reality to Disrupt the Industry and Improve Customer Experiences
May 13, 2024
By Adam Clarke, freelance writer.
As eyewear serves multiple purposes, ranging from fashion to functionality, its global industry continues to expand rapidly. Research from Spherical Insights reveals that the global eyewear market size was valued at $146.1 billion (approximately £117 billion) in 2023 and is poised to reach $215 billion (~£172 billion) by 2033.
Brands must revamp returns, says Manhattan Associates
May 09, 2024
Convenience is the name of the game in today’s retail landscape and the returns process is an integral part. It can make or break the overall brand experience, and savvy retailers are increasingly viewing it as an opportunity to further engage with customers as it provides additional touchpoints to enhance the overall customer journey.
The supply chain is beginning to master a volatile world
May 09, 2024
By James Stirk, CEO, Tradeshift.
Global trade should be on its knees, just as it was in 2020. The only real difference from then is that Covid has retreated, only for the war in Ukraine to reach near-existential intensity. Yet signs of recovery are unmistakable in the supply chain.
New RELEX Study reveals AI's untapped potential: Retail and CPGs yet to fully embrace technology that drives demand forecasting accuracy
May 08, 2024
A new global study by RELEX Solutions reveals that while 57% of retailers and CPG companies plan to invest in predictive and generative AI in the next 3-5 years, AI and machine learning (ML) ranked just fifth in importance for overall technology spend behind enhancing e-commerce capabilities, improving inventory management, demand forecasting, and leveraging data analytics.
Only 1 in 100 manufacturers able to fully automate processes and just 14% redesigning to reduce scope 3 emissions – Kearney
May 07, 2024
The World Economic Forum, in collaboration with global consultancy Kearney, has released a new White Paper exploring the actions manufacturing leaders are taking to redesign their global value chains along key trends that are reshaping those and transforming manufacturing systems.
‘From Disruption to Opportunity: Strategies for Rewiring Global Value Chains’ is based on a survey of 300 global operations executives as well as 30 consultations
Average Brit left waiting almost five days for deliveries
May 07, 2024
Following recent unprecedented delivery and parcel disruptions affecting consumers up and down the country, Shipup, the post-purchase expert, has found that the average order delivery is 4.5 days - or 107 hours*, with the quickest UK city almost one day faster than the slowest.
Seat occupancy sensors and gaming – IDTechEx explores printed and flexible sensors
May 07, 2024
Sensors act as a middle ground between the physical and digital. They measure all sorts of variables from touch, temperature, and heart rate across many different sectors, which IDTechEx’s report “Printed and Flexible Sensors 2024-2034: Technologies, Players, Markets” explores in detail.
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.
