New research by retail technology expert Conversity has revealed that just under half (43 per cent) of shoppers researching complex purchases such as mobile phones, laptops or broadband packages make a buying decision within five days.
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.
Research shows that retailers have five days to crack the sale, before risk of losing the customer rapidly increases
Feb 13, 2019
AI in business: 2019 trends and predictions
Feb 13, 2019
AI is already being implemented in businesses around the world, and while worries persist over whether robots will be taking over the workplace, some are predicting that it will actually improve and even create jobs in the future.
Integrated technology playing critical part in transport planning as concerns around driver shortage continue to grow, says Paragon survey
Feb 06, 2019
Logistics operations are increasingly turning to integrated technology solutions to overcome a host of transport planning pressures, while at the same time the driver and general skills shortage continues to weigh on the supply chain sector.
UK SME manufacturing sector buoyant and confident about future growth
Feb 06, 2019
The latest MHA Manufacturing and Engineering Report confirms UK small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) manufacturers remain optimistic and confident about future growth, despite the uncertainty surrounding Brexit, rising production costs and skill shortages.
Industry pessimism could delay digital transformation and restrict growth across the manufacturing sector
Feb 06, 2019
A decline in business optimism caused by economic uncertainty and Brexit confusion is holding back manufacturers from investing in vital technology improvements, and this could seriously impact future growth across the sector.
Two thirds of SMEs are more concerned about cyber-attacks now than they were 12 months ago
Jan 30, 2019
Businesses in the UK are more concerned about cyber-attacks now than they were a year ago, according to the latest Close Brothers Business Barometer research.
Two thirds of SMEs (67%) said they were more worried about cyber security threats now, with a third of these (31%) reporting that they were significantly so.
Five steps to preparing for the future in the manufacturing sector
Jan 30, 2019
By Andy Coussins, senior vice president and head of sales, international, Epicor Software.
The manufacturing sector currently contributes £6.7 trillion to the global economy. Despite being subject to regular negative reports, the UK continues to play a significant role in the evolution and growth of global manufacturing.
Retailers focus on savings to avoid becoming another high street casualty
Jan 30, 2019
Dave Locke, Field CTO at World Wide Technology, explores how retailers can reassess their 2019 strategies and reduce outgoings in an increasingly challenging environment.
Five key trends shaping the supply chain in 2019
Jan 30, 2019
By Charlie Pool, CEO, Stowga.
2018 was a turbulent year for most industries - logistics and supply chain was no exception. With Brexit, stockpiling, supply chain problems for big brands, and big name retailers closing stores left, right and centre, the next year is undoubtedly going to be as eventful, if not more so.
The green (last) mile – sustainability in parcel delivery
Jan 30, 2019
By Matthew Robertson, Co-CEO, NetDespatch.
Casting my eye over the predictions that the turn of the year brings always offers an interesting insight into which issues are gaining traction in the market.
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.
