Manufacturers are waking up to the risks in their end-to-end supply chains. They are realizing that they are only as strong as their weakest link, especially if they do not have backup sources of supply that will jump in at a moment's notice. As an international law expert says, if you are counting on China for manufacturing, you must "get out".
Risks abound in the global supply chain and goods movement systems. The only successful strategy to thrive is to create a resilient supply chain. According to the Global Port Tracker (GPT) report from Hackett Associates and the National Retail Federation (NRF), the specter of labor strife and new tariffs, along with strong sales, is driving U.S. retailers to keep imports surging through the spring.
"Trump is utilizing tariffs as a negotiating tool in support of his agenda. Although most of what is communicated as potential tariffs is unlikely to go into effect for extended periods of time, tariffs will be rolled out in the next few months." Lisa Anderson is quoted in this article from PYMNTS.
Manufacturing is starting to take flight. The resurgence will be powerful and fast. As a well-connected business executive and trusted advisor mentioned recently, when manufacturing takes off, you will not be able to keep up if you aren't already on top of it.
The LA County fires are leaving a lasting impact on supply chains. In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson discusses the challenges businesses face and actionable steps companies can take to adapt and maintain resilience during this crisis.
In this Future of Supply Chain podcast discussion, Lisa Anderson shares her outlook on the trends shaping supply chains in 2025, including regionalization, resilience, supply chain visibility, artificial intelligence, talent development, and the opportunities available to proactive organizations.
Lisa Anderson warns that the recent devastating fires in Los Angeles County will have far-reaching impacts on supply chains well beyond the immediate area. With over 100,000 people displaced and critical infrastructure, IT systems and power grids affected, businesses across industries must prepare for disruptions that could persist for months.
Although we talk about the value of the backup to the backup all the time in supply chain circles, when the rubber meets the road with the costs of the backup, it can be seen as excessive.
Consumer spending is on the rise, and it’s affecting supply chains. In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson highlights the key factors—like logistics—you need to consider to stay prepared and keep your supply chain agile.
There will be new policies, new supply chains and new manufacturing growth in the New Year. Although 2024 has ended on a sluggish note for most manufacturers with concerns swirling around missed revenue goals, inventory levels tying up cash and supply chain vulnerabilities and risks, there is excitement around changes coming down the pike.
