The Predictions Episode

Karl Siebrecht and Ben Dean reflect on the predictions shared by their expert guests throughout the season, focusing on what the future may hold for supply chains over the next three to five years. Organized around three main themes—geopolitics, emerging technologies, and how advancements in technology can enable greater flexibility, precision and efficiency in supply chains—Karl and Ben discuss topics such as nearshoring trends, the impact of automation and data visibility, and how supply chain professionals can better navigate an increasingly uncertain global environment.

Key Topics Discussed

• The increasing role of geopolitics, including how trade policies and shifting alliances are influencing nearshoring and global supply chain strategies.
• The importance of technology, such as data visibility and orchestration, in building resilient and efficient supply chains.
• Predictions around shifting inventory management practices, automation, and flexible contract structures to improve supply chain execution.
• The rising focus on disaster recovery planning in response to catastrophic weather events.