[08] With an ever-increasing number of extreme weather events expected in the coming years, how can we stop them impacting on our supply chain reliability?

The scale of this problem is enormous. Just a single weather-related disaster in the US is likely to lead to net business losses of around USD 1 billion. There is a practical need to have access to the most accurate information possible, which Maersk can provide thanks to our integrated services, owned assets and advanced toolset.

This needs to be combined with the capability to respond with alternative modes of transport at the last minute, if necessary. Beyond flexibility, reducing the number of partners, touchpoints and handovers in the supply chain also helps reduce complexity and risk, both huge contributory factors to reliability. So, as with all threats to your supply chain, you need to be prepared as early as possible and then have the agility to speed up, slow down or change your supply chain plans rapidly.

[09] What is the best way forward for the successful management of supply chains?

As China starts to open up again following further Covid-19 mitigation efforts, global demand is on the rise. Air freight is better placed to avoid congestion than sea freight of which is why Maersk is predicts it will have a much bigger role to play in transportation. It’s a rapid and effective solution for emergency situations and where moving blocked cargo is a business imperative. And it’s also a great option for goods where speed and availability are paramount to meeting customer expectations.