Projecting lessons into 2026 strategy

Disruptions in global supply chains, from trade uncertainties to the rapid integration of AI, are challenging companies to rethink their strategies. At the same time, businesses must address talent shortages, enhance workforce capabilities, and navigate an ever-evolving technological landscape. The result is a supply chain ecosystem at a pivotal moment, requiring leaders to blend policy, talent, and technology to stay competitive.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, to reflect on the state of supply chain in 2025 and beyond. Together, they explore the significant challenges and opportunities in supply chain planning, including AI adoption, talent strategy, and the impact of tariffs.

Scott and Mike discuss how AI is moving from pilot to scale, helping businesses unlock significant value across sourcing and logistics. They highlight the importance of integrating AI with talent strategies to empower workers rather than replace them. The conversation also delves into the evolving role of trade policy and how companies must build it into their long-term strategy. The episode concludes with insights into navigating the complexities of modern supply chains and the imperative for businesses to embrace innovation while managing uncertainty.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(03:05) Impact of the space shuttle program

(05:17) Overcoming setbacks in large-scale initiatives

(07:25) Shifting from AI pilots to scaled solutions

(09:11) Space exploration’s unexpected byproducts for innovation

(10:07) Reflecting on supply chain performance in 2025

(12:42) Adapting supply chain strategies to tariffs

(15:05) Balancing AI implementation with talent development

(16:19) Upskilling talent in the age of AI

(19:31) Evaluating AI’s role in workforce reductions

(21:13) Connecting AI, talent, and corporate strategies

(23:24) Aligning AI and talent strategies for 2026

(27:05) Supply chain leaders embracing complexity and uncertainty

(34:05) Targeting AI solutions to specific business problems

Additional Links & Resources:

1. Connect with Mike Griswold: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-griswold-6a68922/
2. Learn more about Gartner: https://www.gartner.com/en
3. Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
4. Check out Gartner's "Year in Review: Supply Chain 2025" by Stan Aronow and Wade McDaniel: https://www.gartner.com/en/supply-chain/insights/beyond-supply-chain-blog/year-in-review-supply-chain-2025
5. Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
6. Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
7. Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
8. Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
9. WEBINAR- 2026 Procurement Priorities: What’s Changing (and What You Need to Do First): https://bit.ly/3Yodf0Z
10. WEBINAR- Building the New Manufacturing Workforce: https://bit.ly/4iVb4vl
11. WEBINAR- Building the Foundation for Agentic AI in the Modern Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4s634vN

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/reflections-2025-3-supply-chain-lessons-larned-2026-1528