In an era filled with digital electronics, it would seem as if working with an actual plastic card would be a waste of a time. But modern technology has taken the use of plastic cards to the next level. Increased technological developments in plastic cards, such as smart cards and chip cards, are gaining traction among consumers.
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.
Chip-enabled cards segment estimated to hold more than 46% market share by the end of 2018
Nov 06, 2019
Technology that is changing the warehousing industry
Nov 06, 2019
Every day, technology becomes more and more crucial in every aspect of how we do business. But perhaps one of the places where emerging technologies are the most prominent is in warehousing and logistics.
Automation – future-proofing your business with a WMS
Oct 30, 2019
Over the next two years, 66% of organisations expect supply chains to become increasingly complex, not least in response to growing consumer concerns, according to Automation in Intralogistics research undertaken by Sapio Research, on behalf of Jungheinrich UK.
IoT applications: IDTechEx forecasts great opportunities to come
Oct 30, 2019
Internet of Things (IoT) is considered the third revolution of the computer, after the first revolution of bringing computing to governments and big companies and the second one to the public via PC and smartphone. IoT aims at baking computing power into everything else via countless tiny chips, which will enable them to calculate, process information and decide, by gathering and analysing troves of data about the product, process and customers.
Sizing up the critical path
Oct 30, 2019
In today’s digital world, everything is getting faster and retail is no exception to this. As retailers try to keep up with the new ‘see now, buy now’ economy, speed to market has become a priority. But without a structured process in place, it becomes tricky to manage product deadlines and ensure items reach the consumer’s hand on time.
UK trade volumes fall but number of manufacturers exporting rises
Oct 30, 2019
UK exports fell in Q3 amid a global slowdown in economic growth and rising international trade tensions, according to the latest Lloyds Bank International Trade Index, compiled in partnership with IHS Markit.
Forget about copying Amazon, retailers need to start focusing on ‘what Amazon can’t’
Oct 23, 2019
By Frank Lochbaum, Managing Partner at KPS.
When Simon Russell, director of operational development at John Lewis, used the phrase “what Amazon can’t” (WAC) at the Future Stores event, you could hear murmurs of agreement from the assembled retailers around the room.
Manage ‘Brexcess inventory’ efficiently with a WMS
Oct 17, 2019
By Eric Carter, Solutions Architect, Indigo Software.
Anything could happen between now and 31st October, which might explain why so many companies are still unprepared for Brexit in whatever form it ultimately takes.
Taking Your Small Business Online: What Security You Need in Place
Oct 16, 2019
By Steve Conway, freelance writer.
E-commerce allows businesses of different sizes to connect with potential customers directly. It allows even small businesses to generate thousands – if not millions – in sales, even when there are big enterprises operating in the same market.
Inappropriate behaviour at work is costing manufacturing workers their jobs, according to CV-Library findings
Oct 16, 2019
New research from CV-Library, the UK independent job board, reveals that 51.2% of manufacturing employers have experienced inappropriate behaviour from their employees in the workplace, with 45% having to fire someone as a result.
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.
