Overcoming unpredictability: A roundtable on supply chain resilience | EU Automation & Business Reporter

September 23, 2024

2 min read

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At EU Automation, we recognise the fast-paced nature of UK manufacturing. It is crucial for companies to remain agile, innovative, and efficient.

We recently held a roundtable discussion on supply chain resilience that brought together industry voices from various sectors. Each participant offered unique insights, discussing how manufacturers can adapt to today's challenges. They also explored ways to prepare for tomorrow's innovations.

We explored the ongoing supply chain disruptions impacting manufacturers worldwide and the importance of supply chain resilience. Our panel of supply chain and manufacturing experts debated how manufacturers could mitigate risks in a world of geopolitical uncertainty, labour shortages, and fluctuating raw material costs.

Hear from industry voices

Rob Thurston - Head of Purchasing, Logistics & Compliance, SPP PUMPS.

Rob has been on the frontlines of purchasing and supply chain management. He has in-depth experience in the automotive, rail, distribution, and manufacturing industries. Rob's takeaway from the roundtable discussion was "Disruption in the supply chain is a constant, so keep an open mind to the challenges and find opportunities."

Amy Xue - Head Of Supply Chain at Dishman Carbogen Amcis (Europe) Ltd.

Amy is an expert in running international collaborations for the complex procurement of the heavily regulated pharmaceutical industry. Amy’s takeaway from the roundtable discussion was "Embrace the challenges of the ever-changing business environment."

Ana-Maria Velica - Director & Founder, Green Apples Career.

With two decades of experience in supply chain management for large corporations, Ana encourages all decision-makers to find, nurture and train the best talent.

In the discussion, Rob Thurston (Head of Purchasing & Logistics at SPP Pumps) emphasised the balancing act. This involves maintaining adequate inventory levels. As well as, minimising the costs associated with excess stock in supply chain management. 

Rob states, “The pressure on maintenance staff is huge in terms of carrying stock, you’re spending the company’s cash and if it’s sat there and not being used, it’s idle cash. There’s a lot of pressure not to hold stock, so the reliable supply of parts, on time, when you need them, where you need them, and the correct quality are absolutely vital.”

In a world filled with unexpected logistical challenges, the risks of offshoring are on the rise. We provide access to a reliable global supply chain. This makes it the preferred solution for manufacturers worldwide.

We reduce the need for in-house expertise in global trade policies. This minimises the stress and uncertainty of sourcing parts quickly, providing a guaranteed, all-encompassing service from start to finish.

At EU Automation, we have long recognised the importance of providing a reliable source of automation parts. This is especially true for obsolete and hard-to-find components. Our extensive supplier network allows us to offer quick and efficient solutions to minimise downtime for our customers.

For more insights from the round table and to explore how we’re helping navigate these challenges, watch the full discussion here.