Why relocation is the right way out of the supply chain crisis

Amid ongoing globalization and continued U.S. investments in strengthening the domestic advanced manufacturing sector, global supply chain chaos continues to threaten, to some degree, nearly every business. America as consumers lose patience with product delays and low inventory. As the United States grapples with the current chaos, manufacturers and nonprofits are pushing for relocation to bring production back to the states and meet the needs of their customers.

While relocation isn’t a new topic, the nationwide adoption challenges that have historically kept most manufacturers and decision makers at bay are being addressed with new solutions. Renowned industry expert and executive director of the Relocation InstituteRosemary Coates, is a leading voice in the national relocation conversation and explores new ways manufacturers can approach their global sourcing strategies.

Rosemary is to speak at the next Design. Engineer. Build a conference EMI Westthe leading national manufacturing and design event that brings together established trade event brands Medical Design and Manufacturing (MD&M) West, West Pack, Automation Technology Show (ATX) West, Design and Manufacturing (D&M) West, Plastec Westand CannPack West, scheduled for April 9-12 at the Anaheim Convention Center. During her session, she will explain why relocation is the smart way to go, giving attendees actionable insights and the direction their business can take to plan for the future.

With less than a month to go, I had the pleasure of speaking with Rosemary about the current state of the supply chain and her perspective on relocation as a strategic solution.

Adrian: How has the global supply chain disruption impacted manufacturing in the United States?

Rosemary: The pandemic has had a significant impact on global supply chains. With factories closing and opening and then closing again, first in China and then the rest of the world, shortages and irregular deliveries were felt around the world. Production stopped at some factories due to a lack of parts. Airlines have stopped transporting cargo and passengers from Asia. Container ships have reduced their sailing times and stopovers. Huge swings in product demand have wreaked havoc on manufacturers. As consumers, we suffered from shortages of everyday products like toilet paper, disinfectant wipes and party toys.

Adrienne: Has the chaos opened the door to new opportunities?

Rosemary: Manufacturers across America have shown remarkable resilience and creativity in responding to these types of serious global supply chain issues. Many of our customers are now actively seeking domestic suppliers, investing in expanding US manufacturing capacity, and increasing inventory. This has created huge new opportunities for US suppliers and improved order cycle times for US consumers.

Adrienne: You talk to Design. Engineer. Build a conference in April. What can participants expect to learn?

Rosemary: I look forward to meeting my peers at IME West and sharing my perspective. It’s so important for the industry to come together and share their thoughts on important topics like supply chain disruption because it affects us all. Supply chain risk resulting from the pandemic and years of geopolitics has had a significant impact on many U.S. businesses that relocation has become a hot topic as companies seek to evolve their supply chain strategies . Participants in my session will learn:

• Why now is the time to bring manufacturing back to America
• Americans prefer products made in the United States and are willing to pay more for these products
• Which jobs do we want to recover and which jobs do we need to keep in low-cost countries?
• How Manufacturing Affects Local Economies
• Ways to rethink global strategies

My presentation is Tuesday, April 12, from 8:30 to 9:30; Hope to see you there!

Adrienne: What motivates you to reconnect with your community in person?

Rosemary: It’s nice to be back in person, surrounded by the brightest minds in our industry, and to feel the energy of the crowd. With the many challenges facing the advanced manufacturing industry as a result of the past turbulent years, it’s always a pleasure to see first-hand the remarkable technology and ideas that are driving the global economy forward and driving advance our industry. I look forward to a productive event.

Register at IME Ouest here to attend Rosemary’s session”Global Supply Chains in Chaos – Why Relocation is the Smart Way Forward.” Learn more about the upcoming event here.