In a remarkable display of resilience, the US automotive market witnessed a 12% surge in new vehicle sales in the past year, defying challenges such as high prices, rising interest rates, autoworker strikes, and the lingering impact of the global computer-chip shortage. The latest data reveals that American consumers purchased 15.6 million new vehicles in…
As the business world strides into the new year, the intricate web of supply chains remains a focal point for organizations spanning diverse industries. Logistics, transportation, and supply chain professionals grapple with a myriad of trends, challenges, and opportunities, including the ever-growing influence of artificial intelligence, labor shortages, escalating costs, reshoring dynamics, sustainability imperatives, and…
In a groundbreaking shift towards sustainable logistics, leading firms are spearheading a transformative era through the strategic integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation. McKinsey’s 2019 foresight of a new logistics paradigm, featuring augmented reality goggles for warehouse managers and autonomous vehicles navigating factory aisles, is materializing faster than anticipated. As we approach the four-year…
In a groundbreaking development, artificial intelligence (AI) emerges as a transformative force reshaping the procurement landscape, presenting unprecedented opportunities for companies to revolutionize supply chain operations. AI, with its prowess in problem-solving, data analysis, customer service, and product innovation, stands as a game-changer in procurement, offering an avenue for unparalleled advancements. The procurement realm, characterized…
In a significant development, the Biden-Harris Administration, in collaboration with Microchip Technology Inc., has unveiled a non-binding preliminary memorandum of terms (PMT) aimed at providing approximately $162 million in federal incentives under the CHIPS and Science Act. This strategic move is designed to fortify the semiconductor supply chain within the United States, with a focus…
In a bid to strengthen domestic semiconductor manufacturing, the U.S. Commerce Department is set to grant Microchip Technology a substantial $162 million. This strategic move aims to fortify the U.S. supply chain, specifically focusing on legacy chips crucial for automotive, consumer electronics, and defense applications. The funds will empower Microchip Technology to triple its production…
As 2023 gave way to the new year, industry experts delved into the nuanced shifts that continued to shape global supply chains. Their attention remained keenly focused on deciphering the strategic maneuvers undertaken by companies, influenced by shifts in trade patterns driven by geopolitical tensions and disruptive forces, echoing throughout the supply chain. From the…
Manufacturing faced a subdued end in 2023, marked by economic contraction for the third consecutive month, as reported by the Institute for Supply Management’s Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), which registered 47.4% in December. This downturn was influenced by various factors, including reduced new orders, especially in sectors like computer and electronics products grappling with intricate…
Recent global manufacturing data presents a nuanced outlook, with China and Germany showcasing positive developments, while the UK grapples with challenges stemming from declining foreign demand. China’s Caixin manufacturing PMI for December surpassed expectations, registering 50.8, indicative of potential recovery. Fueled by increased new orders and enhanced sales, the sector achieved a seven-month peak in…
In a bid to enhance efficiency and reduce bureaucratic redundancies, a bipartisan effort is underway in Congress to pass the Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act. The legislation, initially introduced by Rep. Adam Smith (D-Wash) in the U.S. House, seeks to modernize the current system of background checks for supply chain workers, ensuring a more streamlined…