What's trending in manufacturing was highlighted at the Valve Manufacturers Association (VMA) Annual Meeting. From discussions on utilizing AI to what's trending in water, data centers, geopolitics, supply chain and foundries, we provide highlights, stats, and implications for the future of manufacturers and extended supply chains.
Robots aren’t just a futuristic concept—they’re already transforming how manufacturers and distributors stay competitive. In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson uses the example of Amazon to explain how robotics are filling labor gaps, boosting productivity and enabling greater flexibility across supply chains.
Check out Lisa Anderson's new ebook, AI & Advanced Technologies in Manufacturing, how manufacturers and distributors can harness AI and advanced technologies to drive business performance, customer value, and bottom-line results.
As companies navigate tariffs, geopolitical risks and high interest rates, there is an emphasis on reducing costs and inventory levels to free up cash and maintain profit levels while successfully serving customers’ ever-changing needs. The most successful companies are upgrading their planning processes and rolling out automation and advanced technologies.
Industrial automation is no longer optional—it’s the foundation for competitiveness and profitability. In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson shares what manufacturers must consider when investing in automation to boost efficiency, improve responsiveness and stay ahead in a rapidly changing marketplace.
I was interviewed by the Intelligent Enterprise Leaders Alliance for their latest publication recently. Industry 4.0 is the next frontier of smart manufacturing. In the interview we discussed the smart way to embrace industry 4.0 with targeted, tactical, and transformative projects.
Defense technology is advancing at lightning speed—and manufacturing is at the center of it all. In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson discusses how defense tech manufacturers are catching up to meet urgent national needs. Hear about the latest investments, use of advanced technologies and what innovative companies are doing to set the pace for the future of defense.
Distributors play a critical role in the supply chain in connecting manufacturers to customers with inventory, logistics, and fulfillment. As tariffs, geopolitical risks, and tax and regulatory changes take place, supply chains will evolve. Forward-thinking distributors are determining how to mitigate risks and take advantage of the opportunities that emerge with artificial intelligence and advanced technologies.
The Southern California ports had a record-breaking month as the tariffs smoothed out and companies started preparing for peak season. As supply chains evolve significantly over the next several years, logistics systems will evolve. Companies must think ahead, predictively evolve their networks, modernize and upgrade their facilities, processes, and technologies.
A manufacturing boom is on its way. Although it might not appear so according to clients' SIOP (Sales Inventory Operations Planning) models with weaker clients' backlogs and hesitant customers, we have no doubt it is imminent.
