Supply chain risk rose for the second consecutive quarter in Q1 2016, with several natural disasters revealing stark regional differences in the resilience of global supply chains according to the CIPS Risk Index, powered by Dun & Bradstreet.
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.
RFID is set to take off in UK apparel market
Apr 27, 2016
A recent survey by GS1 UK showed that over 25% of the top 20 retailers in the UK – including Marks and Spencer, John Lewis, Tesco F&F, ASDA George and others – are already using RFID tags in their stores.
The missing link in warehouse management
Apr 27, 2016
By Alex Mills, Sales & Marketing Director, Chess Logistics Technology.
Progressive businesses place web-enabled and cloud-based services at the heart of their operations.
Manufacturing activity steady - CBI
Apr 27, 2016
Output in the manufacturing sector was stable over the past quarter, but orders fell, according to the latest CBI quarterly Industrial Trends Survey.
Sanderson customers celebrate more wins at Today's Group Awards
Apr 20, 2016
Sanderson would like to congratulate its award-winning customers who have been acknowledged for their achievements at the Today's Group Awards Dinner 2016.
New research reveals that widespread margin blindness is crippling the financial performance of European organisations
Apr 20, 2016
European organisations performing ahead of market expectations and creating more value for shareholders place a much greater emphasis on understanding and improving margin than their competitors.
Mobile devices meet new sustainability criteria in TCO Certified
Apr 20, 2016
Leading IT brands are moving to certify mobile computers and tablets for sustainability factors.
How independent retailers can integrate touchscreens without breaking the bank
Apr 13, 2016
By Craig Witsoe, CEO at Elo.
The life of an independent retailer is not an easy one. Competition from big box retailers continues to increase, setting up David and Goliath showdowns across the country.
Omni-channel logistics – hot topic but challenges aplenty
Apr 13, 2016
By Matthew Robertson, Commercial Director, NetDespatch.
Omni-channel has become the proverbial buzzword of late. Regardless of the vertical market, be it retail, business or shipping and logistics, the onus on creating a truly holistic experience for the customer has never been greater.
The Winning Formula: how better supply chain collaboration and information sharing can drive business profit
Apr 13, 2016
By Doug Kimball, product marketing director, Srini Muthusrinivasan, industry strategy director, manufacturing, JDA.
Seamlessly managing business in today's ever-changing omni-channel environment is similar to competing in the Formula 1: superior skill, agility and collaboration is needed to succeed.
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.
