A recent survey has uncovered some concerning findings that could have a serious impact on skilled workers for the manufacturing sector now and in the not too distant future.
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.
Report finds retailers must disrupt last mile delivery and slash unprofitable delivery models
Jan 24, 2019
Capgemini has launched the findings of its global study exploring how retailer investment in ‘last mile delivery’ – the final leg of the online purchase journey before reaching the customer’s hands – is critical to uncover new revenue streams.
UK retailers wasting two million hours every week on competitor price-checking
Jan 24, 2019
UK retailers are wasting almost two million hours every working week due to ineffective competitor price-checking processes, according to a research report.
What’s in store for retail in 2019? Manhattan Associates makes its top 5 predictions
Jan 24, 2019
With shoppers becoming ever more demanding and retailers under pressure to deliver the seamless service experience consumers crave, Manhattan Associates, Inc. has identified five key themes it believes are set to dominate the retail agenda in 2019:
Comment from Epicor: UK manufacturers set cash aside in case of hard Brexit
Jan 24, 2019
Following the news that UK manufacturers are setting cash aside in case of a hard Brexit, Mark Hughes, regional vice president UK and Ireland at Epicor, provides his views on how UK manufacturing firms can use this cash to invest in the correct technology to prepare for the changes that this particularly uncertain and turbulent time may bring.
Lighting has an impact on Brits mood and productivity in the workplace
Jan 24, 2019
As the January blues well and truly set in, new research has revealed how lighting can have direct impact on mood and wellbeing at home and in the workplace.
How the Supply Chain is Becoming More Connected Through the IoT and Smart Technology
Jan 21, 2019
It looks like the world is in for another industrial revolution as the global supply chain welcomes new developments brought about by the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart technology. The manufacturing landscape has become so competitive that industry executives have started scrambling to find ways to keep up with the latest tech and business innovations.
UK retailers wasting two million hours every week on competitor price-checking
Jan 16, 2019
UK retailers are wasting almost two million hours every working week due to ineffective competitor price-checking processes, according to a research report.
Increasing IT efficiency through effective print management
Jan 16, 2019
Any software or innovative practice that makes an IT department more efficient should be welcomed in an organisation. However, print management is one area where this impact on efficiency often goes unnoticed, according to Y Soft Corporation, the enterprise office solution provider.
The Supply Chain of the Future
Jan 16, 2019
Supply chains are modernising at a rapid rate as organisations look to capture the opportunity and potential offered by new technology and digitalisation.
Aligned to Industry 4.0, Supply Chain 4.0, combines new tools and solutions including; Internet of Things (IoT), advanced robotics and automation in the supply chain, cutting edge technology such as blockchain, advanced analytics and the management of ‘big data’.
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.
