Pooling inventory to serve both fashion retail stores and e-commerce channels can create an engine for growth, with increased sales and higher margins. Darcy de Thierry, Managing Director of Ferag UK, explains how.
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.
Consumers optimistic about 2024 financial outlook, as Paysafe research reveals shifts in spending and saving habits
Dec 11, 2023
After a challenging 2023, nearly half (49%) of consumers worldwide are confident that their financial situation will improve in the coming year.
Poor training linked to safety issues in manufacturing
Dec 11, 2023
New research conducted amongst learning and development (L&D) professionals across the UK’s high-risk industries, including manufacturing, utilities, construction and transport, reveals a clear link between annual industry fatality rates and the training available to employees.
Supply chain optimisation through innovation and evolution
Dec 07, 2023
In the quest for supply chain optimisation, innovation emerges as a game-changer. It is all about leveraging modern technologies to make the supply chain more efficient, resilient, and sustainable. Adrian Wood Director of Strategic Business Development at DELMIA, takes a closer look at how the supply chain is continuing to optimize through innovation and evolution.
Embracing prosperity in the New Year: Unveiling the benefits of free trade zones
Dec 07, 2023
By Brent Dawkins, Director of Product Marketing, QAD.
As the clock strikes midnight and the world ushers in a New Year, hope and optimism fill the air, bringing with them the promise of a fresh start and new opportunities. In the realm of international trade and economic development, this anticipation is mirrored by the presence of Free Trade Zones (FTZs)....
Government policies need industrial strategy to unlock long-term manufacturing growth
Dec 06, 2023
The manufacturing PMI in November increased to 47.2, up from 44.8 in October, with the three-month upward trend showing stabilisation, which could be the light at the end of the tunnel the industry has been waiting for.
Is Your Business Leaving The Office Behind To Go Remote? Here's What You Need To Remember
Nov 30, 2023
By Rosana Beechum, freelance writer.
There are so many reasons why it makes sense for businesses to go remote. There has been a huge amount of uncertainty over the last few years, and the flexibility that hybrid and remote working provides has been invaluable to companies and employees.
Carbon reduction vs carbon offsetting: Choosing the right route for freight decarbonization
Nov 30, 2023
By Serge Schamschula, Head of Ecosystem at Transporeon.
In light of the European Commission’s recent ambitious proposals to enhance the sustainability and efficiency of freight transport across Europe, the need to decarbonise has reached a critical juncture.
Manufacturers cite cash flow constraints as top concern in offering payment terms to customers, new report shows
Nov 30, 2023
Pan-European flexible payment terms provider Hokodo and US-based fintech company Balance have released a joint research report which explores trends and attitudes among B2B sellers about cross-border payment terms.
Options for sustainable warehouse automation
Nov 30, 2023
Can warehouse automation advance sustainability? Dan Migliozzi, Head of Sales at independent systems integrator, Invar Group, looks at the options available.
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.
