Industry 4.0 – the industry digitalisation initiative spearheaded by the German government – raises the bar for businesses in the logistics sector.
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.
5 steps small businesses must take to protect their assets
Dec 20, 2016
By Lawrence Jones MBE, CEO, UKFast and Secarma.
Throughout 2016 we've seen a shift in media attention towards cyber security. Data breaches and hacking are now headline news.
Amaze reveals ten predictions for digital innovation in 2017
Dec 20, 2016
Digital marketing, technology and commerce consultancy, Amaze, reveals its top ten industry predictions for 2017.
Manufacturing & Logistics IT December Reference Annual 2016
Dec 20, 2016
The December edition of Manufacturing & Logistics IT features an exclusive report on Supply Chain Management, where we spoke with a number of the leading vendors and analysts about current key trends and discussion points within this fascinating technology space.
New call for digital manufacturing could revolutionise automotive supply chain
Dec 14, 2016
According to a new report from The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), digital manufacturing presents a £74bn opportunity for UK industry over the next 20 years, and a potentially step-change moment for the global automotive industry.
Survey shows majority of UK Millennials turn on their favorite brands - for surprising reasons
Dec 07, 2016
A new survey conducted by research company YouGov and supply chain commerce cloud provider GT Nexus, an Infor Company, confirms a lack of brand loyalty among 18-34 year-olds while uncovering surprising factors that drive brand disloyalty.
1 out of 3 companies underprepared for digital transformation, Ovum finds
Dec 07, 2016
A new study from global data, market research and advisory firm Ovum has found that one third (33%) of enterprises globally are underprepared for 'digital transformation' – the process of replacing legacy networks and dedicated service platforms with a coherent digital environment that is flexible, cost-effective, and capable of delivering changes rapidly and dynamically.
Choosing the best mobile scanning accessory for the enterprise: case, sled or peripheral
Dec 07, 2016
By Samuel Mueller, CEO, Scandit.
Barcode scanning is one of the easiest ways to collect product data. But choosing a scanning device is not always so simple.
Voxware research reveals significant increase in consumer expectations for online retailers this holiday season
Dec 07, 2016
Voxware has released consumer survey data demonstrating heightened expectations to which online retailers will be held during the 2016 holiday shopping season.
Finding a label applicator that works for your business
Dec 01, 2016
By Marsha Frydrychowski, director of marketing services, Resource Label Group.
Establishing an efficient labeling system can streamline operations, lower costs over the long run and lead to a more consistent product. When chosen correctly, a versatile label applicator is an investment that will lead to a healthier bottom line.
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.
