Manufacturing has been in contraction for the last few years, while geopolitical risks are heightened and tariffs have created additional uncertainty, yet the future is starting to look bright. Investments and expansions are picking up. The most successful manufacturers will position for success by preparing for opportunities, mitigating risks and building resiliency and capabilities.
Global supply chains started a full transformation in 2025 spurred on with geopolitical risk and encouraged by tariffs, and the pace accelerates as the New Year kicks off with geopolitics dominating the conversation and fundamentals making a comeback. We review learnings from the prior year and priorities for success in 2026.
In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson outlines three priorities for the year ahead. These priorities set the foundation for resilience, growth and sustained success in an increasingly complex environment.
As we close in on year-end, successful manufacturers are focused on executing proactive plans. Learn about the strategies the best companies are using to accelerate the pace and separate from the pack. The ability to scale, provide customer value and gain EBITDA will drive success in the New Year.
A holiday message from Lisa Anderson and LMA Consulting Group. We expect significant opportunities for manufacturing and proactive executives with agile, regional supply chains, proactive processes such as SIOP, artificial intelligence and a focus on talent will thrive.
The value of MRP (material requirements planning) remains intact no matter the company size or industry. Determining how to automate the process, utilize the MRP system and potentially further enhance it with artificial intelligence and advanced technologies can yield powerful results.
Although it starts with a depressing state of affairs for manufacturers, there is vast opportunity on the horizon. Manufacturing investments have been pouring into the U.S. and the three pillars of economic success are trending positive. Companies must prepare to scale and for success.
In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson explains why manufacturers must upskill their workforce not only to improve efficiencies and reduce low-level work done by highly skilled employees, but also to preserve critical knowledge as Baby Boomers retire.
Priorities that power the triple bottom line of social, environmental and financial performance are gaining momentum. Sustainable advancements, smart manufacturing and advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence are trending as they can deliver win-win improvements, supporting profitable growth and success.
Manufacturers must reexamine the role of technology and data in driving real-time business performance. Markets shift, demand changes and supply disruptions emerge overnight. The best-performing manufacturers are those that can plan and pivot because they trust their data, have optimized ERP and utilize SIOP.
