Supply chain issues this last year have been disrupters causing delays, shortages and challenges for a myriad of industries. With the continuation of the global pandemic, manufacturers can count on these issues to carry on well into the new year. Rolled Threads Unlimited has committed to being transparent as we navigate this crisis and adapt to meet the needs of our customers. We have found that the supply chain challenges can be boiled down to these four sources:
- Increased Demand: Demand started to increase as global economies opened back up near the end of 2020. For most industries, demand is the same or slightly higher than prior to the pandemic. As more markets begin to accelerate, demand will, too.
- Supply: Most suppliers decreased inventory during the last year-and-a-half due to a reduction in orders and market uncertainty. Once demand for the inventory increased, it was harder to compete with a short supply.
- Labor: When supply and demand dropped, so did labor—leading to employee lay-offs and furloughs. When markets began to open and demand began to rise, many industries struggled to support or sustain their operations with limited manpower.
- Logistics: Containers, cargo ships and other shipping operations were removed or significantly decreased with lower demand and limited operations. As markets began to reopen, things were and continue to be delayed due to lack of logistics infrastructure and labor.
How is Rolled Threads adapting? We keep in close communication with our customers and suppliers from beginning to end. We know how important the relationship between quality products and quality service is—that’s why we keep transparency at the forefront of every relationship.
While many of these issues are out of our control, we can control the integrity, reliability and overall quality of our products and customer service. We also make sure to try to order materials early so delays impact our customers less. As our company—and maybe yours—navigates these challenges, we promise to keep you aware of the situation every step of the way.