10 things eft’s been reading this week
When supply chain issues risk even the supply of beer, we know it's serious
First KFC, then soft drinks and then beer? When it comes to recent supply chain disruptions in my home country of the UK, is nothing sacred? This week we look into what happens when things go wrong, where issues might occur in the future and what logistics companies need to look at to insulate themselves.
CO₂seems abundant … until it's not. CO2 supplies 'may take two weeks to return to normal'. [BBC]
The car industry is also seeing risks across their logistical network rise, with supply chain disruptions up 40% from 2016 to 2017. Supply chain disruption risk jumps for automotive sector. [Strategic Risk]
Toy-makers are also being affected, with Mattel worst affected by poor supply chain management. Mattel may underperform in Q2 due to poor inventory management. [Supply Chain Dive]
Problems supplying toys is one thing but altogether more scary are the vulnerabilities in the pharma supply chain. This white paper on antibiotic supply is quite an eye-opener. Shortages, stockouts and scarcity: the issues facing the security of antibiotic supply and the role for pharmaceutical companies.[Access to Medicine Foundation]
It is the closed nature of the drug market and the potential for disruption that has Amazon prepping for a big push into the market. Amazon could start selling discounted meds to cash payers as soon as the PillPack deal closes. [CNBC]
However, even this behemoth is struggling to scale up their operations and keep up with consumer demand. Amazon is now investigating how to get more freelance delivery workers into their network with some hefty incentives. How much will Amazon move the needle on last-mile logistics? [Supply Chain Dive]
Kroger’s latest solution to the issue of high demand for last mile logistics is of the robotic kind. Kroger Counters Amazon With Self-Driving Grocery Delivery Plans. [Bloomberg]
Disruption to the supply chain can also introduce fraud into the mix as rogue actors look to fill the gaps. What can companies do to minimise the risk? Managing the risk of supply chain fraud. [Property Casualty 360]
The Internet of Things (IoT) is shaping up to be a critical tool in dealing with disruption through enhancing transparency. The IoT Is Changing Supply Chain Management. [IOT Evolution]