As the Iran war simmers, trade experts ask whether it could reshape supply chains more deeply than COVID, forcing companies to rethink strategies to counter further geopolitical shocks. The back-to-back crises of the pandemic and the Iran war have altered how many companies now assess risk.
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.
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.
LMA Consulting Group, Inc., a leader in manufacturing strategy and supply chain transformation, led by Lisa Anderson, MBA, CSCP, CLTD, joins the national spotlight for Manufacturing Month by highlighting the renewed strength and strategic importance of U.S. manufacturing.
The economy has a distinct impact on manufacturing. Although U.S. manufacturing has gone sharply down with offshoring for lower wages, less regulations, and fewer hurdles, there remains a base crux of manufacturing might that is turning into a renaissance with favorable tax, tariff and interest rate policies.
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.
It is past time to ensure your supply chain is ready for growth. As companies scale up, shortages and lead times are extending. Develop plans to take advantage of the opportunities by preparing your supply chain to scale.
Success or failure will depend on your talent. If you wait for stability to invest in talent, your competition will pass you by.
The most important strategy to minimize the impact of sudden tariff changes is to create a resilient supply chain. Addressing tariffs requires a short-term and long-term strategy. In the short term, you must stay ahead of changing conditions, enhance your supply chain visibility so that you know the origin and risks of your end-to-end supply chain and be ready to move rapidly.
