**US**: A GS1 US study of 500+ supply chain professionals reveals high confidence in managing disruptions through data standards, automation, and real-time tracking. However, 43% struggle with visibility, and only half have implemented sustainability practices despite near-universal recognition of its importance.
A recent study by GS1 US, the organisation responsible for managing UPC barcodes, highlights significant trends and challenges in supply chain management, particularly around visibility, disruption handling, and sustainability efforts.
The survey, which involved over 500 supply chain professionals from sectors including retail grocery, healthcare, and apparel, found that a majority of respondents expressed confidence in their ability to manage supply chain disruptions—64% were highly confident, and 35% moderately so. However, despite this confidence, 43% reported difficulties maintaining supply chain visibility, an issue that can hamper effective management.
Companies with high confidence in their supply chains tended to have centralised systems to manage disruptions in real time, with 56% employing such systems and 68% trusting the accuracy and consistency of data within them. Furthermore, 72% of these companies had undertaken full supply chain automation, aiding their agility, with 61% stating they could manage supply chain agility very well. Handling consumer demand fluctuations was another notable strength, with 51% of confident companies reporting robust capabilities in this area. Use of GS1 Standards was also strongly linked to confidence, with 77% of users stating it improved their ability to respond to disruptions.
The research also revealed that companies using real-time tracking technologies were 68% more likely to report enhanced visibility and improved inventory control, underlining the growing importance of technological solutions in supply chain management.
Sustainability remains a priority for supply chain professionals, with an overwhelming 99% recognising its importance. Yet, only about half have moved to implement sustainability practices in their operations. Among those advancing environmental initiatives, key focus areas included waste management and recycling programmes (52%), sustainable packaging (48%), certifications and impact accounting (48%), and sustainable sourcing of materials (45%).
Bob Carpenter, president and CEO of GS1 US, told PR Newswire US: “Geopolitical tension, fluctuating demand and supply chain disruptions are putting immense pressure on organisations, forcing them to rethink and transform their supply chain strategies. To remain competitive, organisations must adopt greater agility, innovation and sustainability throughout the entire supply chain.” He added that future success depends on real-time adaptability, enhanced visibility, operational innovation, and a strong commitment to sustainable business practices.
This study, titled “Powering Supply Chain Confidence: The Role of Data and Standardization,” underscores how the integration of data standards and automation can bolster supply chain resilience, while also drawing attention to the ongoing challenge of embedding sustainability within supply chains.
Source: Noah Wire Services
Subscribe to Industry Updates
