Supply Chain Woes (CONT’D FROM PAGE 24)
When deliveries are spotty, companies are tempted to keep more stock on hand. “Companies should no longer rely on just-in-time inventory strategies, which too often have become just-too-late failures, and stockpile more supplies both in the United States and abroad,” says John Manzella, a consultant on global business and economic trends, East Amherst, NY ( JohnManzella.com ). “This ap-
BCN(US)202108(o)(出血5mm).pdf 1 2021/8/10 下午 01:11:06 Companies are responding to the supply chain chal- lenge by doing more with less, running machinery beyond its prime and collaborating with vendors to predict ship- ping delays. Such moves strike a familiar chord with Palisin at the manufacturer’s association. “The pandemic has re- ally highlighted the need to develop strategies to mitigate potential disruptions in the flow of critical components,” says Palisin. “That means doing a dive into the supply chain, mapping the locations of the first tier of suppliers and learning about the reliance of second tier as well.” Pandemic-related shortages have affirmed the need for backup vendors even for lower volume items. “Instead of relying on one supplier, a company might have three to manage risks,” says Jim Hannan, Practice Leader of Man- ufacturing, Distribution and Logistics service group at con- sulting firm Withum ( withum.com ). “We expect this trend to continue with the advent of environmental, social gov- ernance (ESG) standards at larger companies.” maybe I can hire a robot to do it.’ And I think that’s a good strategy.” A decline in the cost of automation has helped duel this trend. “The cost of labor has gone up while the cost of electronic equipment has gone down,” says Conerly. “Something that did not pencil out a few years ago may well do so today.” New Strategies
proach reduces efficiencies but favors risk reduction.” Companies are willing to turn upside down the tradi- tional views of inventory control, given the increased risk of shortages and customer goodwill. “Many companies are investing more cash in inventories, and banks seem content with lending against that,” says Hannan. CONTINUED ON PAGE 28
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26 September 20, 2021
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