Supply Chain Management Trends

Last week, I was invited to beautiful Switzerland, where I held a seminar for supply chain managers from 30 large logistics service providers and manufacturing firms. Initially, these managers were asked about SCM topics they are currently most interested in. Here are some insights gained from the answers: First, ecological sustainability has become a top-priority topic; several managers have mentioned that their SCM activities are concerned with both tackling climate change and reducing waste of resources. Second, international SCM activities are challenging for many participants, particularly in regions such as China, Russia, Brazil, Eastern and Southeast Europe (including Turkey), and the Arabian Peninsula. Third, market volatility seems to be a problem for many firms and many of them strive for improved visibility in their supply chains. Some other topics mentioned by the managers are: evaluation of and collaboration with LSPs, shortage of drivers, returns and repairs, security, and speed (including deliberate deceleration of supply chain processes).