The December 2018 edition of Manufacturing & Logistics IT features a Special Technology Report on Supply Chain Management.
For this report, we spoke with a number of leading spokespeople from the vendor and analyst communities about recent, current and possible future developments within the world of supply chain technology. Plus, a round-up of Special Technology Reports covering: Transportation Management, Automatic Data Capture/Mobile Computing and Printing & Labelling.
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.
December 2018 edition of Manufacturing & Logistics IT
Dec 12, 2018
A ‘Pragmatic’ approach to storage and distribution of UK manufactured components will ensure car plants won’t stall following a No-deal Brexit
Dec 12, 2018
UK automotive manufacturers needn’t fear being hit by unexpected delays or new tariffs imposed on EU-sourced components following a no-deal Brexit, argues B.G. Bullas’ Managing Director, Nathalie Wheeldon, in a new industry study. She believes there are many UK component manufacturers able to plug sudden breaks in supply chains, when combined with a pragmatic approach to storage and distribution.
Manufacturing: The surprising leader in the global datasphere – new IDC research
Dec 12, 2018
The global datasphere¹ could grow to 175 zettabytes by 2025, and industries such as Financial Services, Manufacturing, Healthcare, and Media and Entertainment are helping to define this new era of data growth.
Are you asking the wrong question about WMS?
Dec 12, 2018
If you are asking why you need a cloud-based WMS you might be asking the wrong question…
Brexit uncertainty boosts sales for Synergy
Dec 12, 2018
Warehouse management specialist, Synergy Logistics, is benefitting from the “Brexit effect” as it posts record sales for 2018.
Gen Z driving retail’s cashierless future
Dec 12, 2018
To borrow that famous quote from the great American author Mark Twain, reports of the death of the physical retail store have been greatly exaggerated.
Three trends that will disrupt MEA’s supply chain industry in 2019
Dec 12, 2018
Thanks to customer expectations, the supply chain, and logistics industry have evolved significantly over the past few years. Brick and mortar processes of delivering goods and services are just not good enough. Hence, surfaces the need to deploy technologies that empower business to keep up with customers.
Manufacturing: The surprising leader in the global datasphere – new IDC research
Dec 05, 2018
The global datasphere¹ could grow to 175 zettabytes by 2025, and industries such as Financial Services, Manufacturing, Healthcare, and Media and Entertainment are helping to define this new era of data growth.
Could there be a Brexit dividend for the supply chain?
Dec 05, 2018
Currency fluctuations caused by worldwide geo-political events like Brexit and changing US trade policy may be being exploited by companies seeking to save money in their supply chain, a new report has found.
A manufacturer’s guide to thriving in a Hard-Brexit Britain
Dec 04, 2018
With Brexit negotiations in full force, British manufacturers are actively planning to maximise the opportunities that lie before us and mitigate the challenges.
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.
