

Managing Supply Chains in the Age of Tariffs (Production Pulse)
10 snips May 1, 2025
Darrell Edwards, a supply chain professor and former COO at La-Z-Boy, and Ji Li, a supply chain advisor and ex-Boeing director, delve into the evolving dynamics of supply chains amid changing tariffs. They discuss how geopolitical tensions and COVID-19 have forced companies to diversify sourcing strategies. With a focus on collaboration, they stress the importance of transparency, scenario planning, and leveraging technology for effective risk management, all while rethinking supply chains in a shifting global landscape.
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Supply Chain Diversification Trends
- Large companies have been diversifying supply chains with China Plus One since before recent tariffs.
- Smaller and medium companies struggle more and react tactically with inventory and shipment holds.
Diversify and Increase Visibility
- Diversify suppliers across multiple geographies to avoid single sourcing risk.
- Increase supply chain visibility using technology to enable faster, smarter decisions.
Supplier Development Fundamentals
- Execute fundamentals of supplier development exceptionally well for success.
- Use supplier scorecards and 360-degree surveys to detect vulnerabilities early.