The Future of Supply Chain podcast is a show hosted by Richard Howells, Sin To, and Nicole Smythe. The trio discusses hot topics, best practices, and the latest innovations to deliver a risk-resilient and sustainable supply chain. The show features interviews with experts from the world of supply chain, sustainability, and Industry 4.0, who will address the issues of today and tomorrow. This is an ideal podcast for supply chain, R&D, manufacturing, logistics, and operations executives to learn and share ideas and best practices with their peers.
GreenTech in der Lieferkette – Nachhaltig, Digital: Wettbewerbsfähig in dieser 2. Folge sprechen wir darüber, wie Unternehmen ihre Lieferketten nicht nur grüner, sondern auch smarter machen können. Mit am Start: Technologien wie GreenToken und GreenLedger, die für echte Transparenz sorgen. Außerdem klären wir, was es mit dem Lieferkettensorgfaltspflichtengesetz und der CSRD auf sich hat – und warum das Ganze mehr Chance als Pflicht ist. Spoiler: Wer jetzt digital und nachhaltig denkt, hat die Nase vorn.
This week we discuss how to orchestrate supply chains in volatile markets with SAP's Jeb Insley. He shares insights on navigating disruptions from pandemics to geopolitical risks, the rise of supply chain leadership, balancing cost and resilience, and the critical role of connected digital systems and AI-driven orchestration in enabling agile, end-to-end supply chain networks. Come join us as we discuss the future of Supply Chain!
This week we discuss the future for oil, gas, and energy companies with Stephane Lauzon from SAP. We dig deeper in topics of logistics in remote locations, asset maintenance, predictive planning, and how companies are embracing biofuels, hydrogen, and carbon capture to drive sustainability. Discover how technology and innovation are transforming supply chains to meet the energy demands of tomorrow. Come join us as we discuss the future of Supply Chain!
GreenTech in der Lieferkette – Nachhaltig, Digital: Wettbewerbsfähig in dieser Folge sprechen wir darüber, wie Unternehmen ihre Lieferketten nicht nur grüner, sondern auch smarter machen können. Mit am Start: Technologien wie GreenToken und GreenLedger, die für echte Transparenz sorgen. Außerdem klären wir, was es mit dem Lieferkettensorgfaltspflichtengesetz und der CSRD auf sich hat – und warum das Ganze mehr Chance als Pflicht ist. Spoiler: Wer jetzt digital und nachhaltig denkt, hat die Nase vorn.
This week we discuss how reshoring is reshaping the U.S. manufacturing landscape amid rising tariffs and supply chain disruptions. Our guest, Ashley Hetrick from BDO USA, shares insights from a recent CFO survey highlighting cost, resiliency, and technology as key drivers. We explore emerging manufacturing hubs in Texas, Nevada, and Washington, and industries leading the reshoring trend. Come join us as we discuss the future of supply chain!
Join us this week, as we discuss how geopolitical instability and tariffs are reshaping global supply chains. Lori Harner and Jay Foster from SAP share how agile, integrated business planning and collaborative supplier networks enable companies to navigate complex regulations and cost pressures. Discover how AI and scenario planning empower smarter decisions, turning tariff challenges into strategic opportunities for resilience and growth in today's volatile environment
In this week's episode we dive into right-shoring, reshoring and regionalizing manufacturing with Ascential's Todd Bauman. We discuss how holistic decision-making Is essential for right shoring and regionalization, and why automation and resilience are key to addressing labor and geopolitical challenges. We also delve into why regional supply chains help hedge against disruption and the importance of supplier collaboration and communication strategies. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
In this week's episode we discuss the trends, challenges and opportunities in the area of transportation management with Westernacher's Matt Paulaitis. Matt discusses challenges such as organizational silos, tariff impacts, and the need for unified data, and the role of predictive analytics, machine learning, and AI integration to optimize operations and enhance real-time decision-making. Matt also explained why companies are investing Companies are investing in digital supply chain systems and collaborative portals to increase agility, resilience, and operational efficiency. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
In this week's episode, we're joined by Market Veep's Janelle McGrath to discuss the intertwined worlds of supply chain, marketing, and sales. We explore how aligning these departments can boost efficiency and customer satisfaction, and dive into strategies for maximizing visibility of new products and communicating sustainable practices effectively. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
In this week's episode we welcome back SAP's David Vallejo. Together we dive into the evolving landscape of supply chain management, discussing how businesses are shifting from siloed operations to integrated orchestration, explore the transformative role of AI in enabling real-time decision-making, boosting resilience, and fostering sustainability. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
The consumer goods industry is undergoing a seismic shift driven by AI and digital technologies. Joined by our own Maria Morais, we unpack key trends for 2025, including subscription-based models powered by AI customization, experience-driven commerce blending digital and physical retail, dynamic pricing enabled by real-time analytics, and hyper-personalization. Also, sustainability takes center stage as brands embrace ethical supply chains and transparency. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
Joined by Efficio's Barbara Guignard, we dive into the causes behind the current cocoa crisis, including climate challenges and underinvestment in cocoa plants. Discover how chocolate manufacturers are responding through recipe alterations, sustainability initiatives, and supply chain innovations, whilst tapping into emerging technologies and potential alternatives that may shape the future of chocolate production and consumption. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
With insights from SAP's Mark Averskog and Descartes' Eric Geerts, together, we dive into the world of ocean transportation, highlighting the importance of sea freight in global trade, current challenges faced by shippers and carriers, and the ongoing digital transformation of the industry. Learn about the push for greater visibility, process automation, and sustainability in maritime logistics, and how these advancements are set to revolutionize supply chain management in the coming years. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
Hannover Messe is just around the corner, and who better to discuss the future of supply chains with than Dominik Metzger, President & Chief Product Officer Supply Chain Management. In this episode, we explore how AI can help to build resilient supply chains, the crucial role of data, and how the interplay between structured and unstructured data enables faster decision-making. We also take a closer look at the impact of SAP Business Suite and Business Data Cloud on supply chain management and discuss why sustainability is not just a challenge but a game-changing opportunity for businesses. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
Joined by Westernacher's Alexis Lozada, we dive into the world of network aware planning, a revolutionary approach to supply chain management that focuses on understanding the interconnectedness of various networks within the supply chain. Discover how this strategy helps businesses make informed decisions, prepare for disruptions, and optimize inventory allocation. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
Navigating manufacturing's future: Supply chains face disruption, talent pools shrink, and sustainability demands rise. Discover how AI, cloud tech, and data-driven strategies offer solutions. Hear Judy Cubiss from SAP share insights on building resilient, efficient, and future-proof industrial operations. Companies are rethinking supply chains for resilience and embracing collaboration platforms. AI offers potential for automation and insights but requires robust data management and infrastructure. Sustainability is now a financial imperative, with regulations driving the need for data collection and tools like green ledgers. Flexibility and agility are crucial in responding to evolving trade policies, with scenario planning becoming essential. Cloud ERP systems offer smaller manufacturers access to advanced technologies, aiding in talent management and innovation. Join us as we dive into the Future of Supply Chain.
This week, we're joined by McKinsey & Company's Kevin Goering to dive into the insights from their fifth annual Global Supply Chain Leader Survey, revealing how executives are responding to persistent disruptions and shifting priorities. Together, we dive into the delicate balance between cost management and risk mitigation, the challenges of digital adoption, and the growing focus on nearshoring and dual sourcing, discovering why some companies may be taking their eye off the ball when it comes to supply chain resilience, and what strategies are proving most effective in today's dynamic business environment. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
As inflation, energy volatility, and supply chain bottlenecks strain the packaging industry, companies grapple with trade-offs between cost reduction and durability. This week, ProcureAbility's Joe Adamski joins us to dive into strategies like lightweighting materials, on-site renewable energy, and rethinking the possibilities with transportation logistics. Together, we examine the viability of "net zero" claims, greenwashing risks, and innovations like sensor-driven energy optimization. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
This week, Niall Brennan - former FBI agent turned SAP cybersecurity strategist - details the critical role of securing supply chains amid rising cyber threats. With 22 years of FBI experience in counterterrorism, cybercrime, and intelligence, Brennan now bridges public-private partnerships to safeguard SAP's digital ecosystem. He discusses threat intelligence sharing, incident response, regulatory compliance, and anticipatory resilience strategies, highlighting the need for "personality-resistant" global collaboration to neutralize vulnerabilities in an era of rapid technological disruption. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
This week, we're joined by Adelante SCM's Adrian Gonzalez to talk all things logistics – no pun intended. With logistics moving into the forefront of companies' digital transformation, we dove into the importance of valuing and utilizing the broader supplier network, seizing the momentum of the technology transformation and acceleration, and sharpening your visibility beyond your four walls. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
This week, Deloitte's Tim Gaus joins the series to explors the future of manufacturing, discussing key challenges manufacturers are set to face in 2025, including workforce management, agility in production, and technology modernization. Together, we highlight the importance of balancing human expertise with automation, the impact of generative AI on manufacturing processes, and the need for a harmonized digital core to optimize supply chain management and manufacturing efficiency. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
As many trends and predictions for this new year, from regionalized supply chains to AI-powered technologies to sustainability initiatives taking the forefront, executives are looking for ways to radicalize their business processes. This week, Lisa Anderson joins us to dive into these new strategies and initiatives that will continue to drive change in businesses as we enter 2025. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
You know the saying… new year, new predictions? That's right – to kick off 2025, Sarah Barnes-Humphrey joins us to discuss the patterns, trends, and predictions we see driving digital supply chain transformation this upcoming year, like increased focus on cybersecurity, automation and humans' new bond, and making supply chain fun again. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
Produktionsstätten verlagern? Klingt wie ein Umzug mit zu vielen Kartons – nur komplexer, global und riskanter. In dieser Folge spreche ich mit meinen beiden Kollegen Ralf Lehmann und Matthias Deindl darüber wie den Überblick über Lieferketten, Daten und Prozesse bei einer Standortverlagerung behält, warum Cloud-ERP euer digitales Umzugsunternehmen sein kann und wie ihr Produktions-Pannen vermeidet. Damit der Neustart kein Totalschaden wird! Und natürlich geht es auch um die SAP S.Factory.
What a year it has been! On this special episode, Richard, Sin, and Nicole look back on a memorable 2024, recapping the top trends, such as risk resiliency, sustainability, visibility and transparency, AI, and next generation, shared with our incredible guests, and look forward to the future, predicting what is to come in 2025. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
Warum sind Datenvisualisierungen ein Gamechanger für Lieferketten? In dieser Episode diskutieren wir mit Jens Wille (Ubilabs) und Stefan Wiech (bloog), wie Unternehmen durch smarte Visualisierungstechniken nicht nur ihre Lieferketten optimieren, sondern auch Risiken gezielt minimieren können. Erfahrt, warum die richtige Darstellung von Daten mehr ist als ein nettes Extra – sie ist der Schlüssel zu effizienteren Prozessen und strategischen Entscheidungen. Lass dich inspirieren und erfahre, wie smarte Daten den Unterschied machen! Wenn euch der Podcast gefallen hat, dann gebt uns gern ein „Like“, teilt und abonniert uns, um über zukünftige Episoden auf dem Laufenden zu bleiben!
In today's complex world of logistics, it's critical to evolve with the changing landscape and expectations of e-commerce and customer experience. With that, iDrive Logistics' Glenn Gooding joins us to dive into the growth of the small parcel market, the importance of supply chain transparency, and the integration of brick-and-mortar stores with online shopping. Additionally, together we address the challenges of demand surcharges, the need for brands to align delivery experiences with their image, and strategies for maintaining operational efficiency in uncertainty. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
In this episode, we talk to Prof. Dr. Maria Besiou, an expert in humanitarian supply chains, about the differences between commercial and humanitarian supply chains. We discuss why planning in the humanitarian supply chain is so difficult, what companies can learn from the flexibility and innovative strength of humanitarian organizations. And what the balance between efficiency and humanity looks like. A must for anyone interested in modern logistics, resilience and sustainable supply chains!
Joined by PDF Solutions' Jonathan Holt and SAP's Helena Chong, together we dive into the complexities of the semiconductor industry and supply chain, highlighting pressing challenges in the field. From chip shortages and global regulations, there is an emphasized need for a connected and predictive ecosystem to improve operational efficiency and disruptions in real-time. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
Happy World Children's Day! As we celebrate the youths of the world, we're joined by very special guests – Cooper, Grace, Hailey, Miles, and Violet – to discuss their perspective on supply chains really are and what it means to them. Ranging in ages from 6 -17, you're in store for a variety of answers, some even out of this world. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
In today's complex global supply chains, warehouses are anything but simple. This week, our Roboteon's Dan Gilmore joins us to discuss how to turn this complexity into an advantage, using robotics to address key challenges like labor shortages, operational complexity, and e-commerce growth. In our conversation, Dan emphasizes the need for strategic automation implementation, involving workers in the process, and adopting flexible technologies, whilst discussing the importance of proper training, updating KPIs, and considering the entire warehouse ecosystem when automating. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
Project 44's Carson Krieg, with additional insights from our own Doug DeLuca, joins the series to dive into their recent State of Consumer Holiday Shopping 2024 Report, providing data and research shopping practices, spending, shipping preferences, sustainability, and more. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
In today's complex global supply chains, ensuring security across physical, cyber, and software dimensions is critical. This week, our own Jay Thoden van Velzen joins us to discuss the increasing risks of cyber-attacks as supply chains become more digital and interconnected. As we not only dive into the importance of third-party risk management and proactive measures to safeguard against vulnerabilities in software, Jay mentions that for organizations to navigate these challenges, they must prioritize comprehensive security strategies to protect their operations and data integrity. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain
We've heard of resiliency being the spearhead for the supply chains of tomorrow, but what about integrating antifragility into your business? This week, our own Paul Saunders explores the concept of an antifragile supply chain, delving into the idea that businesses must accept chaos as a fundamental aspect of the modern world, moving beyond traditional resilience to thrive amid uncertainty. By leveraging predictive analytics and embracing change, companies can not only survive disruptions but also gain competitive advantages. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
This week, GAINS' Jeff Metersky joins the series to dive into their innovative supply chain design product, whilst covering several crucial topics, including the current state of supply chains and the need for a radical shift in thinking to address modern challenges. Throughout, he emphasizes the importance of integrating design and planning processes, moving beyond traditional concepts and terminologies, and adopting a cohesive approach to supply chain management. Together, we touch on the necessity of embracing new technologies and methodologies to tackle contemporary supply chain challenges. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
This week, hosts Richard and Nicole delve into the recent East Coast Port Strikes involving 45,000 dock workers, highlighting the need for businesses to adapt by enhancing visibility, diversifying suppliers, and implementing both short-term and long-term strategies to mitigate risks. Additionally, they emphasize the evolving relationship between automation and labor, predicting a future where both work in harmony for greater efficiency. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
AI and robotics are transforming supply chain logistics, paving a new path for autonomous operations, improved visibility, and efficient decision-making. Our own, Kam Ghossaini joins again to dive into SAP's three-tiered Business AI strategy in the world of supply chain, including embedded AI, bolt-on services, and custom AI development tools. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
It may only be September, but the holiday season is quickly approaching… is your supply chain ready? This week, hosts Richard and Nicole discuss new trends in consumer buying and growth, what socio-economic events will impact this buying season, and what companies can do to best prepare for the holiday rush. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
This week, our own Andreas Wagner joins us to delve into the intricacies of global supply chains, emphasizing the importance of digital transformation and sustainability whilst sharing insights on how companies can adapt to changing market demands through technology and collaboration. Together, we highlight the significance of agility in supply chains and discusses emerging trends such as AI and hyper-personalization that are shaping the future landscape. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
Innovation, speed, flexibility, and scale are critical in today's modern day supply chains. This week, our own Mindy Davis and Bob Merlo return to explore the three C's to success: connecting processes, contextualizing decisions with AI, and collaborating effectively with your ecosystem. Together, we discuss innovations and insights that open new doors to business strategies, enabling companies to transform their supply chain. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.
In dieser Folge sprechen wir Manuel Flubacher und Markus Oertelt über die enge Verbindung zwischen Industrie und Logistik, die in Deutschland für Innovation sorgt, welche Chancen die Digitalisierung bietet und warum eine effiziente Logistik entscheidend für die Wettbewerbsfähigkeit ist. Dabei diskutieren wir auch, wie neue Technologien nicht nur unsere Arbeitswelt verändert wird und kann, sondern auch die Supply Chain und die Logistik.
In dieser Folge diskutieren wir die tiefgreifenden Veränderungen, die moderne Lieferketten durchlaufen, und beleuchten die wesentlichen Herausforderungen, denen Unternehmen im Supply Chain Planning begegnen. Dabei diskutieren wir, wie globale Unsicherheiten und technologische Fortschritte den Druck auf Lieferketten erhöhen und welche Strategien erforderlich sind, um diese Herausforderungen zu meistern. Und natürlich sprechen wir auch über den Einsatz neuer Technologien, wie Künstlicher Intelligenz (KI), die das Supply Chain Planning revolutionieren kann und wir zeigen auf, wie KI-basierte Lösungen Unternehmen helfen können, die Vorhersagegenauigkeit zu verbessern, Risiken proaktiv zu managen und die Effizienz der Lieferkette zu steigern. Diese Episode bietet wertvolle Einblicke und praktische Tipps für alle, die sich mit der Optimierung und Zukunftssicherung ihrer Lieferketten beschäftigen.