The consumer products and appliance industries need specific parts and components to make the products we use every day. Managing the supply chain for these industries can be complex, with parts and components coming from many regions across the world. With unexpected global disruptions, advancements in technology, and evolving market demands, managing the supply chain gets more challenging each year. Here are some of the complexities and how to navigate hurdles in your supply chain.
Global Disruptions and Geopolitical Tensions
Global events like regional clashes, travel restrictions, or a pandemic can bring uncertainties into your supply chain. If there are disruptions to your shipping or logistics, how will this impact production? Raw materials can also face tariffs and export controls that can also negatively impact the cost and availability of components you need. One of the best ways to combat unforeseen global disruptions is to diversify your suppliers so that you aren’t reliant on one region of the world to produce the materials or products you need. By sourcing from a variety of countries or regions you can mitigate risk and improve the resilience of your supply chain.
Shortages of Materials and Components
Some specialized materials or components can occasionally be limited in supply. If you can’t get the raw materials you need, your production line can be delayed or shutdown. There is competition with other industries for the same materials which can further complicate production when there is a shortage. Using advanced inventory management systems to source and purchase can help you plan for and reduce shortages of specific components or parts. Working with your suppliers can help secure materials or find alternative materials that meet the requirements but are more readily available.
Compliance and Regulatory Requirements
There are compliance and certification requirements for many appliances and consumer products that often involve product testing and certification. Any delay to the certification process can impact your production and end product launch dates. Making sure your team is engaging with the right regulatory organizations is key to streamlining your approval process and avoiding delays. Integrating compliance into your manufacturing process is another best practice, allowing you to track components and parts in real time as they move through production.
Overcoming supply chain challenges requires planning and strategies in place to ensure your suppliers are ready for the unexpected. Diversifying suppliers across regions can help to ensure you have access to the raw materials and components you need for production. Staying ahead of compliance and using technology to simplify inventory and logistics are great ways to ensure your production timelines are not at risk. Gexpro Services provides supply chain expertise for the consumer products and appliance industries with advanced inventory management and technology solutions to streamline your supply chain and production capabilities. Talk to our team today about simplifying your supply chain and getting the resources you need to stay competitive and resilient in a competitive industry.