Hello everyone....
Of the many things Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic have taught us, the precarious nature of our traditional supply chains is pretty close to the top of the list. As a consumer I had heard terms like JIT (just in time) production processes, but other than a general theoretical interest, I had not given it much more thought until 2020. It was at the point that supermarket shelves started emptying and the many items I had taken for granted that I could just ‘pop out and pick up’ anywhere suddenly became rarer than hen’s teeth that I, like many others, suddenly started paying attention!
Luckily, the IET’s Midland’s Manufacturing Group were well ahead of my curve. They had started to address this issue back in 2018. Working with Sir John Peace and the Midlands Engine, and the All-party Parliamentary Manufacturing Group (APMG), the group has published the attached report setting out the case to bring together key players involved UK supply chain models to create a new approach.
They point out that there is a critical need to forge closer links between industry, equipment manufacturers and SMEs. That by creating common processes, requirements and standards, and collaborating for greater understanding, there is huge potential to streamline the UK supply chain. This is turn would boost economic growth, strengthen UK trade within the global economy, and genuinely help the UK to level-up as a competitor on the world stage.
Do you agree? Please take a look at the report and share your thoughts. The report authors are looking forward to getting views from you, the manufacturing experts, and anyone involved in supply chain issues around the world. They’ll be popping in here to participate in the discussion and answer any questions raised.
Many thanks
Alex
