Warehouse management solution specialist, Snapfulfil, has published five "top tips" on what to look for when selecting a new warehouse management system (WMS).
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.
Wo-manufacturing giants encourage girls into sector
Sep 05, 2018
Women make up 47% of the overall UK job market [1], but in some sectors, the gender gap is much broader. In traditionally male dominated sectors such as manufacturing and engineering, women are still struggling to make their way.
Infosys research: Less than a quarter of global enterprises think and act like digital natives
Aug 30, 2018
Infosys has released global research, The New Champions of Digital Disruption: Incumbent Organisations, that reveals that under a quarter of organisations surveyed, understand that commitment to digital is at the heart of true transformation. And, it is these organisations that are reaping rewards from digital disruption.
Treating retailers like a consumer, not a distribution channel
Aug 29, 2018
By Paul Swaddle, Co-Founder, Pocket App.
We're all used to the idea that 'the customer is always right', when it comes to ensuring consumers are satisfied with your product – and it's a bit of wisdom has certainly carried over into the reviews-driven world of app stores. But it's worth remembering that this doesn't just apply to the end consumer.
Renewable energy key to clean future, say Manufacturers
Aug 29, 2018
New research from Haven Power, one of the UK's largest business electricity suppliers, reveals over 60% of businesses in the manufacturing industry think renewable energy solutions are the key to ensuring a clean future. Additionally, half of those surveyed believe more needs to be done to reduce carbon emissions.
Manufacturers' first step towards Industry 4.0 success
Aug 29, 2018
Could fear of failure be preventing Industry 4.0 technology from reaching the factory floor? James Wood, Director of Business Development, EMEA & APAC at Aptean, outlines why manufacturers have to view digital transformation as a journey, rather than a destination.
Supply chain and logistics providers prepare for Hard Brexit
Aug 22, 2018
One in six (17 per cent) of UK manufacturers have identified supply chain disruption as being the single biggest factor that will impact their business post Brexit.
A fifth of UK businesses have found wage abuses in their supply chain
Aug 22, 2018
Research from the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) has revealed that 21% of UK supply chain managers have seen wage violations in their supply chains over the last two years.
Peak? Which peak?
Aug 22, 2018
By Craig Summers, UK managing director, Manhattan Associates.
Whilst we are enjoying an uncharacteristic English summer, Christmas may seem a million miles away. But, as is customary in the retail world, brands far and wide will be setting up their plans to survive the busiest time of the retail calendar.
The importance of food traceability – Six steps to help prepare for the inevitable
Aug 22, 2018
By Duncan Moir, senior principal product manager at Epicor.
In the last ten years or so, the world has become more health and safety conscious with much greater focus on the nutritional and allergen content of our food. As a result, legislation on traceability and product labelling has become more complex and onerous.
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.
