services
logistics
REGULATORY SUPPORT AND CUSTOMS CLEARANCE
services
logistics
REGULATORY SUPPORT AND CUSTOMS CLEARANCE
COVID-19 has significantly disrupted the global supply chain and directly affected companies involved in the storage of goods. The pandemic has also led to several major developments in the warehousing sector. This article looks at some of these developments which are likely to have lasting impacts on warehousing.
A key feature of the current crisis has been the volatility of supply and demand across the globe. For example, many parts of Asia began to emerge from lockdown just as the crisis peaked in Europe and the US. This situation led to severe undersupply of some goods while other producers were left with significant surpluses. At the same time, COVID-19 has become a catalyst accelerating several key trends in warehousing including:
1. Increasing demand for warehousing space
Uncertainty created by the pandemic is likely to cause increased demand for additional storage as suppliers seek to build up safety stock to protect against future shocks.
Due to the persistent nature of the crisis, firms may decide to increase their inventory levels in the long term. In turn, this will boost demand for warehouse space and depots for storing, picking and packing. This trend will be especially relevant for high-value and high-turnover goods.
2. Increasing role of automation and robotics
The automation of warehousing facilities is a longstanding trend likely to be accelerated by COVID-19 and the threat of future pandemics. With health experts warning that social distancing measures will remain in place until at least 2021, warehousing companies all across the globe are already turning to automation to maintain social distancing and reduce the number of staff working on-site.
In the longer term, this outbreak and the anticipation of future shocks may speed up the use of automation and robots in operations. This will require investment in technology as well as infrastructural investment to redesign warehouses.
3. Outsourcing of warehousing services
Outsourcing has become a major trend in the global supply chain over the last 20 years. In fact, about 80% of non-core functions in the supply chain are currently being outsourced as it enables companies to focus on their core competencies and be more competitive.
The pandemic has exposed the fragility of current supply chains and created intense budgetary pressures. Therefore, it is likely that companies will increasingly engage third-party logistics specialists rather than investing in their own distribution networks. With so many businesses currently seeking to streamline their staffing and operations in the event of economic decline, the industry trend towards outsourcing of warehousing services is likely to intensify.
COREX Logistics is a supply and logistics company with headquarters in Ireland, working with pharma and patients to facilitate improved healthcare worldwide.
Our expert international team works across an 80-country network, specialising in the EMEA region, providing the latest in clinical trial logistics technology and systems, cold-chain delivery, temperature-controlled transportation and storage services. From sourcing, procurement and customs clearance, to labelling, returns and destruction, we cover every link in the supply chain. We also run an established Named Patient Programme and provide Patient-Oriented services. With extensive knowledge and on-the-ground insight into our markets, we create innovative solutions with the ultimate goal of improving the lives of patients.
To learn more about our range of expert services, contact us today on info@corex-logistics.com
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