Managing capacity during these turbulent times in a complex, volatile, long-lead time environment has proven quite the challenge. During the pandemic, sales volumes either dropped like a rock or skyrocketed with no middle ground. Most manufacturers have not been able to keep up with demand in the last year [...]
The world has all sorts of complications and challenges going on simultaneously: The Russia-Ukraine war is heating up, driving a severe energy shortage in Europe as Russia turned off the gas pipeline. The China-Taiwan tensions continue to gain steam with advanced computer chips at the crux of the conflict. The baby formula challenges carry on with flights [...]
To prepare for a segment on Bloomberg to talk about the state of logistics that will air with their interview of Deutsche Post DHL Group CFO Melanie Kreis (which will air on Chief Future Officer on Oct 5th), I did a deep dive on package shipping and related logistics systems.
In thinking about our LMA blog, I finally found time to revamp the categories so that it is easier for folks to find articles on topics of interest. It isn't really something I could outsource since there were too many considerations and scenarios to explain. I got on a [...]
Supply chain disruptions continue at a break-neck pace.
Made in the USA! Instead of fiddling around dipping our toes in the water, we should put a full court press on expanding manufacturing in the USA. Why? Let's just consider a few questions: Should we put our eggs in the China basket? Only if you enjoy substantial risk... [...]
Our clients continue to experience an unprecedented level of volatility and complexity. The common themes include: Continued supply chain disruptions: From computer chips to commodities to everyday components/ materials, clients continue to experience shortages and/or extended lead times. Continued challenges in finding people: Whether you are looking for [...]
I went to Costa Rica with my brother and nephew, and so I've been thinking about the amazing Costa Rican biodiversity, beaches, birds and biotech manufacturing.
According to the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), 82% of manufacturers remain at least somewhat positive about their company's outlook. This statistic is especially interesting since 59% thought continued inflation would make a recession more likely in the next 12 months. Perhaps manufacturing should be even more positive as [...]
The successful companies will not only strive to be the strongest link in your supply chain, but they will ensure that the weakest link doesn't send their customers to the competition. You have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to secure your position as a market leader and thrive for years to come, if you choose to take advantage of the opportunity and start to act NOW.
