National Supply Chain Day occurs annually on April 29. It’s a day when all companies leading in the supply chain come together to spread knowledge, share new technology supporting their supply chain, and connect with industry peers.
Supply Chain Day helps conclude National Supply Chain Integrity Month, established by the U.S. Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).
U.S. business logistics costs exceeded $2.316 trillion in 2022, with total transportation costs growing 7.5% year-over-year to $1.3914 trillion.
The global 2023 supply chain management market value was estimated at $23.27 billion, and it is expected to register a compound annual growth rate of 11.2% from 2024 to 2030. almost $31 billion by 2026.
National Supply Chain Day was created to bring awareness to “where and how” today’s goods and products move from factories to final customer delivery. And the day is all about the value of collaboration and contemporary, tech-driven systems.
The modern-day supply chain industry is enormous, and it is the glue that holds the global market together, especially during times of economic turmoil and market disruptions. The world is connected through our supply chains. Supply Chain Day exists to help improve visibility, information, and awareness of just how important the supply chain is to the world as we know it today.
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Why More Consumers Care
There has been a growing trend in recent years among consumers for fast, reliable, and sustainable shipping options. That trend accelerated by the onset of the COVID pandemic, lockdowns, and disrupted shipping.
Consumers today are more mindful of waste and pollution and what they can do to cut back on that environmental impact. They want to work with companies that offer them the services they want while also feeling they are professional and honest at the same time.
Today, many shipping companies are making moves to switch to greener fuels, reduce emissions, protect natural resources, and improve working conditions for their employees. These are all things consumers are asking for and, at times, demanding.
Understanding the Modern Supply Chain Impact
Anyone who tried to buy vital necessities during the pandemic, found out how essential the supply chain network is to life as we know it.
The industry and consumers saw shortages in toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Masks were difficult to secure. Problems arose with certain foods and other necessities being in short supply. Shifting demands and supply chain disruptions caught many organizations unprepared.
Changes in shipping and sudden market trend fluctuations create a ripple effect within the supply and demand flow that took months to even out. When one part of the supply chain suffers disruption, everyone feels the impact — from the manufacturer to the warehouse manager, to the shipper, to the consumers themselves.
Supply chain automation and digitization helps improve overall performance from end to end.
Eco-Friendly Steps the Modern-Day Supply Chain Is Embracing and Implementing
There are several essential steps that the modern-day supply chain is beginning to support that can have a lasting impact on the industry and the world:
- Tracking emissions across short- and long-term views to see where key problem areas lie.
- Reducing fuel use and switching to cleaner fuel and energy sources to reduce pollution levels.
- Embracing new supply chain tools and innovative technology designed for specific shipping needs.
- Automating systems and platforms to integrate into the system for improved efficiency.
- Improving working conditions for drivers and other workers with regulating hours, safety measures, and health initiatives.
- A renewed push for multimodal and technology-based shipping options to become the norm.
Start Following the Right Strategy to a Better, Sustainable Supply Chain by Celebrating WIth the Right Team
Embracing a greener and more sustainable way to manage shipping in the modern-day world takes innovation, integration, and collaboration. Partnering with MercuryGate can go a long way in making a difference.
Learn more about establishing a more sustainable supply chain with our eBook, “What You Need to Know About Meaningful Carbon Emissions Reductions in Your Supply Chain.“
