In 2020, it was reported that 35% of organisations experienced logistical delays in cross-border transportation. The pandemic heightened issues within the logistics industry that were beginning to arise in global supply chain processes, with the delays experienced reaching record highs. While some organisations and products halted demand instantly, others shot up with demand reaching new levels.
Poll results
In our most recent LinkedIn poll, we asked our social media followers what they thought the biggest supply chain issue impacting the logistics industry was in 2022.
Logistics industry supply chain issues: what we found
Changes in demand patterns
70% of respondents highlighted long lead times as the biggest challenge for the logistical industry this year.
Ongoing global logistic disruptions from the pandemic continue to impact organisations as the flow of consumer goods into key markets such as North America and Europe, South East Asia and India is restricted by the continued shutdowns of major global ports and airports, largely in China, South Korea, and the US. As well as the fluctuating demand for consumer products based on cultural and life changes in the economy, it’s harder than ever for organisations to estimate the need of the consumer.
Lack of visibility
20% of respondents selected lack of visibility as the biggest issue impacting the logistics industry.
Lack of visibility can lead to lack of accuracy and tough supplier relationships. Even before the pandemic a lack of visibility impacted businesses across all industries. When organisations are already contending with other challenges related to supply chains such as stock shortages, a lack of visibility becomes a pressing issue.
Shortage of drivers
10% selected driver shortages as one of the biggest logistic supply chain challenges of 2022.
As increase rises in shipment demands, organisations are faced with the challenge of driver shortages. Brexit led to less international workers and with take-up low for the government’s 10,500 visas for overseas lorry drivers, jobs are still being delayed as a result.
Ander
Finally, 0% selected ‘other’ as the greatest supply chain challenge facing the logistics industry.
While this wasn’t selected, one area that ‘other’ could represent is difficult trading partner relationships. As global supply chains have changed in recent years, issues are arising with logistical communication barriers and incompatible technology. Factoring in the high levels of pressure in modern supply chains, these all have the potential to prevent the trust and efficiencies on which effective trading relationships ideally rest.
More information
B2BE’s experience in the supply chain sector allows our customers to build, expand and adapt successfully, enabling greater effectiveness. To engage with B2BE and offer feedback on what matters most to you and your business, make sure to follow us on LinkedIn and across social media. You can also vote in our latest LinkedIn poll. If you’d like to discuss your supply chain strategy, get in touch with us.