The covid-19 pandemic has disrupted supply chains all over the world. From delays to shortages, the supply chain industry is witnessing several challenges in the wake of the pandemic. Today, as many parts of the world continue to grapple with healthcare and economic challenges, the industries around the world are relying on new technologies for transparent, sustainable, and agile supply chains.

Impact of Covid-19 on supply chains

The impact of Covid-19 on supply chains was severe. Some experts even claim that the effect of Covid-19 on the supply chains could be felt for two years and can cost up to 400 billion dollars. Below were some factors that contributed to such a severe impact:

• Interrupted movement of the shipments.
• Business shutdowns
• Non-availability of workers

Adapting supply chain strategies to the new normal

After the pandemic, several novel approaches were adopted by the industry.

For instance, hands-free and contactless protocols were made necessary to ensure the health and safety of employees and consumers.

Information was synced to have real-time communication with employees and streamline business operations.

Integrated mobility and IoT-management platforms were used to optimize delivery routes to enable quicker and efficient shipments.

Besides all the above measures, these four important solutions can help alleviate supply chain challenges:

• Diversifying supply chains and considering other manufacturing hubs such as India, Vietnam, and Mexico besides China.
• Promoting localization of manufacturing and supply chains.
• Increased digitization of supply chains by investing in artificial intelligence and intelligent automation.
• Marketing the products that are in excess to areas where there is stronger demand.

The road ahead

The sad truth is that the pandemic is still prevalent in almost every part of the world. Therefore, there is an urgent need for businesses to address supply chain vulnerabilities.

In a survey, 87% of respondents revealed that they plan to invest in supply-chain resiliency within the next two years.

The survey also revealed that 89% of supply-chain professionals want to invest in supply chain agility.

The supply chain experts will have to focus on creating an operating model that provides both agility and resiliency in supply chains and delivers superior customer service.

Companies should not just adapt their supply chains to meet the demands of the new normal but also identify the deficiencies exposed by the pandemic and think of new ways to correct them.

Wrap-Up

Although the pandemic challenges are far from over, the supply chain industry has shown unprecedented resourcefulness and adaptability to help the world weather such storms now and in the future.