Just over a third (35%) of manufacturing Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) has a business savings account, according to research released by Aldermore.
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.
A quarter of major retailers are unable to measure performance by channel
Nov 20, 2014
A quarter of major retailers are unable to accurately measure and report their business performance by channel because they don't have the appropriate tools and systems in place.
5 unexpected ways businesses can use smartphones to drive profit
Nov 19, 2014
No matter the product, service or industry, mission or corporate philosophy, nearly every business is bottom line-driven.
Survey shows software vendors and intelligent device manufacturers gearing up for the 'Appification' of the enterprise
Nov 13, 2014
Delivering user-friendly enterprise applications to employees accustomed to, 'there's an app for that', requires a ground-up rewiring of the enterprise software business model.
UPS Capital sponsored study shows supply chain risk mitigation strategies lacking
Nov 13, 2014
While many supply chain executives are well aware of the risks facing their supply chains and the undesirable consequences, many are still not developing and executing strategies to properly manage identified risks.
Rising use of asset finance amongst manufacturing firms
Nov 13, 2014
Manufacturing firms worldwide are increasingly deploying asset finance to facilitate equipment acquisition and technology upgrade, according to the latest study from Siemens' Financial Services Division (SFS).
MLIT Magazine December Reference Annual 2014 - Big Data technology report
Nov 11, 2014
The December 2014 edition of Manufacturing & Logistics IT will feature a special technology report on Big Data.
The Manufacturing & Logistics IT editorial team will seek the views of leading vendors and research analysts.
Managing customer information to gain a competitive advantage
Nov 06, 2014
By Ben Rund, Senior Director Product Marketing PIM & Procurement, Informatica.
Customers are buying products from retailers in a multitude of ways including in store, online, mobile sites and via apps. This is creating a large amount of data that retailers must use if they want to create a more personalised shopping experience for the modern day consumer.
Food allergen labelling rules are changing – are you ready?
Oct 30, 2014
Manufacturing & Logistics IT spoke with David Taylor, business development manager, manufacturing, at Zebra Technologies, and Ken Moir, marketing director at NiceLabel, about a new food allergen regulation due to come into force on 13 December, the implications for manufacturers and retailers, and the type of printing & labelling solutions regime necessary in order to ensure compliance.
Manufacturing & Logistics IT Magazine - October 2014
Oct 30, 2014
Special Technology Report:
Transportation Management
Also in this issue:
Outperforming traditional order fulfilment methods with Automated Case Picking
Food allergen labelling rules are changing – are you ready?
Elektron Technology improves customer service levels thanks to WMS from BEC Breaking the fulfilment speed barrier
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.
