Most seasoned logistics campaigners agree on one thing, and that is we’ve never been through such uncertain times as we have in recent years. The likelihood is that in the short to medium term uncertainty is likely to remain with us. The economic fluctuations caused by issues such as Brexit, COVID and supply chain challenges will stay with us into 2022 and beyond.
As a result, it may be tempting to continue to run your business on a day-to-day tactical level and put off the more difficult strategic decisions until the economic world becomes a more certain place. That’s clearly an option, but uncertainty can also bring opportunity, and therefore those businesses that continue with a clear logistics strategy, supported by an agile “Plan B,” can capitalise on that opportunity.
Clear thinking with contingency planning in the following areas are the basis for a solid logistics strategy:
- What are the national and global trends in your industry?
- What will your future demand look like?
- What are your competitors doing?
- What are your plans for warehouse location and product distribution?
- What is your future transport strategy and cost-to-serve model?
- Are procurement and sourcing decisions likely to change?
- What are your plans around staff resourcing and automation?
- How will sustainability affect your logistics strategy?
With many years of experience, Davies & Robson can help not only with developing a solid logistics strategy but also in building alternative scenarios in areas that are less certain. This will give clients the ability to change direction quickly if circumstances dictate. In short, the type of logistics flexibility that may be required in these uncertain times.
For an informal discussion on how we can support your logistics strategy planning, please call us on 01327 349090