2020 created global and economical uncertainty, 2021 brought supply chain disruptions, and 2022 allowed us to learn how to better navigate this new norm. Now that we’ve had time to slowly recover, what does that mean for 2023? As the last few years have forced many to be reactive, I think it’s safe to say that 2023 will be a proactive year for the supply chain industry – taking steps to ensure operations are robust, resilient, and set up for long-term success.
Here's a few trends you can expect to see in 2023:
Sustainability
We’re all seeing it. Your customers want it, their consumers want it, and you want it. Climate change is one of the biggest and most unpredictable risks facing businesses right now, and with that comes the push to see green and sustainable operations. We can expect to see a heavier emphasis on relocating operations closer to home, reducing carbon footprints, and partnering with specialists to manage these ESG goals.
Automation
With the development of drone deliveries, industrial robots, and automated guided vehicles, automation is playing a huge role in supply chains by increasing productivity and efficiency. Automation through artificial intelligence (AI) will also help increase efficiency by managing inventory and predicting purchasing demands.
Visibility
Increased visibility in your supply chain is key to maintaining operational stability. You can’t become more risk-resilient without knowing the current situation. You can expect to see increased collaboration between suppliers, partners, customers, and even competitors as they work together to enhance the visibility and traceability throughout the supply chain, with the overall goal of helping to reduce risk, improve efficiency, and increase customer satisfaction.
Circular Supply Chains
In an effort to deal with the rising costs of raw materials and their volatile availability, we can expect to see more movement toward circular supply chains instead of linear supply chains. Many manufacturers are choosing to refurbish their discarded products for resale. Not only will this have a positive impact on the environment through less waste, but companies will also save money by spending less on raw materials.
The Shippers Group is a leading national third-party logistics company headquartered in Dallas, Texas providing supply chain support to brand leaders and market innovators in industries including food and consumer packaged goods. With food-grade multi-client and dedicated distribution facilities in the United States, The Shippers Group provides supply-chain solutions with outsourced warehousing, transportation, contract packaging, and e-commerce fulfillment services. Since 1901, The Shippers Group has relied on core values of integrity, innovation, excellence, and safety to grow customer relationships, focus on continuous improvement, and engage sustainable business practices that deliver results. More information is available at www.theshippersgroup.com.
