safety Archives - Page 4 of 11

How Black Friday Might Look Different This Year For Logistics

in Logistics, News/by The Source Partnership

Black Friday is historically a high-traffic time for those in the logistics industry. More resources are required to meet the higher-than-usual consumer demand in retail, both for eCommerce stores as well as traditional bricks and mortar outlets. Black Friday has seen a steady growth in recent years, originating from the U.S and now a phenomenon in the UK too, in 2019, Black Friday sales in Britain jumped by 16.5% compared with the previous year.

What was once celebrated on a single day, is now spread over several weeks – with some brands already kicking off their 2020 Black Friday deals, in light of this difficult year. The event is swiftly followed by Cyber Weekend (previously referred to as Cyber Monday), which offers similar deals and savings to customers – but is limited to online purchases only. This year, Black Friday will occur on 27^th November, with Cyber Monday on 30^th November.

How Will Black Friday Be Different This Year?

With the exception of supermarkets and other essential retailers, Black Friday, for the first time in its lifespan, will be mostly confined to online operations this year (rendering the notion of Cyber Weekend less novel than in recent years). This, of course, is due to the UK being in a second nation-wide lockdown that is projected to last until at least 2^nd December, 5 days after the usual Black Friday event. What this means is that eCommerce procedures will be met with a much greater demand from their website hosting capabilities, right through to the capacities of their warehouses and couriers.

With attention taken away from the usual offline operation – which has been notorious in past years for long queues, packed out stores and even in rare cases, brawls – retailers will likely have more budget and labour to put into ensuring that their online presence can withstand more traffic and interest than what they might have had in previous weeks and months. Timed with the last payday for most people before Christmas, Black Friday has a reputation for being one of the busiest times for businesses, even without deals on display. It’s estimated that around £8.57bn was spent last year.

The notion of retail moving online is not necessarily a new one, and especially not for Black Friday. In fact, around 23.8% of shoppers prefer exclusive online deal-hunting and in 2019, UK shoppers were expected to spend more over Cyber Weekend than on Black Friday itself. However, this is the first year where operations have been forced online completely – retailers do not have a choice but to adapt if they wish to jump on the trend.

What this means for logistics, is undoubtedly an adjustment of usual procedures. Where transport workers were surely the unsung heroes during the first national lockdown, keeping supermarket shelves full and healthcare organisations supplied, businesses will now look again to logistics to accommodate the changing face of Black Friday. During times like these, where pressure is ramped up and circumstances are different than usual, Just In Time (JIT) logistics is an efficient and clever way to navigate the changing climate.

Is This A New Normal For Retailers?

The phrase “new normal” has been passed around a lot over the course of the last few months, with many thinking that trends such as working from home and social distancing may continue for years to come. Can this also be said for retail? Will there be a shift to eCommerce not only this Black Friday, but permanently?

Naturally, only time will tell, but if 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that we value human interaction. With this in mind, it’s unlikely that all businesses will move online in their entirety, as the novelty of heading out and shopping in person is unlikely to be lost on people any time soon. Though the high street is without doubt in a difficult position, we are also seeing the likes of Primark completely resisting the shift to eCommerce, a controversial, but well-respected decision.

When it comes to logistics, the sector has to be more tuned in than ever to facilitate fluid demands as we navigate through these times. There are plenty of uncertainties ahead for retail, but the transportation sector is well-prepared to handle it.

Keep up to date with our latest news on our blog, LinkedIn or Twitter.

How Has The ‘On-Demand’ Economy Impacted Logistics?

in Logistics, News/by The Source Partnership

Since the Coronavirus outbreak, many things have changed in the world of business. However, even before that, we’ve definitely seen an increase in the past few years of an ‘on-demand’ economy – one shaped by the likes of retailers such as Amazon and services such as “30-minute click & collect”. The ‘on-demand economy’ is the business of delivering almost instantly. Amazon’s ‘same-day delivery’ to a hub locker and the now-abandoned Amazon Pantry in the US helped to give consumers something they now find hard to live without: online shopping that is delivered the same day. The convenience of your goods arriving almost instantly, without the hassle of going to a physical store.

Once an idea is alive, it’s hard to kill it. So, since the ‘on-demand economy’ begun to take shape, many retailers have had to move with it. Brands such as Superdrug have launched a ’30-minute click & collect’ service, whilst Tesco offer same day delivery, so long as your cart is checked out before 1pm. This idea isn’t just exclusive to retail either, the ‘on-demand economy’ has long been present in companies such as Uber, who enable users to request a ride instantaneously, and digital transformation means that when you order concert tickets, for example, they’ll be delivered to your smartphone right away.

The ‘On-Demand Economy’ And Its Impact On Logistics

One thing is for certain when it comes to talking about the ‘on-demand economy’, when consumers want something – they want it quickly. This presents a stocking issue, as it’s important to make sure there’s enough goods in stock to adhere to demand, but also not so much that warehousing space is wasted. There’s no real way to tell when a product might be popular and when it might not, other than speculating, retailers need a plan in place that means when a customer places an order – they’ll get it in good time. This in turn has an impact on logistics, those who transport a product from A to B. Retailers need to make sure that they are working with a trusted logistics provider who can meet timely demands. At The Barnes Group, we operate a ‘Just in Time (JIT)’ method of logistics, to keep up with consumer demand. This means that we avoid deadstock by only transporting goods where and when they’re needed. This might not always mean same or next day delivery, but it does mean swift and reliable transportation that doesn’t result in a lack of or a surplus of stock.

The impact of the ‘on-demand economy’ on logistics, creates the need for a fast turnaround for consumers. This isn’t exclusive to transportation either. Producers need to work to ensure they’ve made enough product to keep up with demand. Then at the other end of the funnel, retailers themselves need to be managing an operation allowing for a service that provides click and collect, or even same day delivery. Not every business can manage this logistically and even where they can – there’s a reliance on every step of the supply chain moving swiftly and efficiently. Though not impossible to service the ‘on-demand economy’, companies need to be able to work quickly without compromising on quality. Naturally, a lot of planning is required to ensure that production doesn’t fall behind and neither does the movement of goods during the next stage.

The important thing with the ‘on-demand economy’, is managing consumer expectations. Companies like Amazon are built around speed and they’ve been offering same and next day delivery for some time. This model will not work for every company and it’s important to keep that in mind.

Does The ‘On-Demand Economy’ Have A Future?

This method of operating isn’t feasible for every company and it would be fair to assume that not every consumer would expect such a speedy service from every business they interact with. For businesses that can adhere to the ‘on-demand economy’ such as Amazon, Superdrug, Uber, online course providers and supermarkets, then no doubt they’ll continue to thrive under this operation. Especially since the pandemic has increased reliability on eCommerce.

However, it would also be fair to say that if a business can’t keep up with the ‘on-demand’ economy, then they won’t necessarily be in trouble. Or at least not for now. For the most part, customers are happy to wait. Only time can tell if this changes in the future.

For more information on Just in Time (JIT) logistics and the other services that The Barnes Group provide, including warehousing solutions, please get in touch with our team on our website.

Logistics Services: How Investing in Roads Can Help

in Customers, Driving, HGV, LGV, Logistics, lorry, News, safety, Uncategorized, weather/by The Source Partnership

Logistics services are an important element of a successful supply chain that helps to increase the sales and profits of businesses that deal with the production, shipment, warehousing and delivery of goods worldwide. A reliable logistics service can not only boost the economic strength of any business but also help to maintain a positive public image.

It is therefore imperative that this service is able to operate as effectively and efficiently as possible and that is hugely reliant on the improvement and maintenance of UK roads. In August, Highways England unveiled the details of plans for a £27.4 billion investment in the strategic road network across the country.

They promise to deliver £14 billion of projects improving the quality, capacity and safety of the motorways and major A roads that have helped keep the country going during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The UK’s road network is a vital part of everyone’s life. It continues to serve the country well during the ongoing pandemic, keeping supermarket shelves stocked and enabling key workers to get where they need to be.

However, operations can only continue to run smoothly if proper funds are injected into the maintenance and improvement of this country’s roads. Over the next five years, Highways England plan to increase capacity where it is most needed and continue to upgrade more of the network which has suffered from decades of under-investment.

Improved roads could mean an easier drive for many hauliers. Less instances of acceleration and deceleration due to the lack of potholes, narrow roads and maintenance vehicles will mean a decrease in the level of fuel consumed during transport. If routes were more efficient or roads were improved, vehicles would produce less emissions. Not only would this lead to cheaper overall costs in terms of fuel but it would also contribute to the management of future environmental damage.

Further improvements will lead to a decreased need for maintenance on vehicles. Many roads have cracks that are just waiting to turn into dangerous potholes that could potentially cause collisions. Local roads where hauliers make their last-mile deliveries are often in an even worse state and the damage to HGVs – in particular, to their suspension systems – can have quite an impact. Resurfacing those roads would incur less damage to hauliers and other road users.

More potholes mean more breakdowns, more roadworks and more delays. These delays for a ‘just-in-time’ industry can be disastrous. Faster travel times with less obstacles and more efficient routes would make journeys faster and more reliable for haulage companies across the UK.

The FTA reports that improving the country’s roads is the most important thing politicians can do to support an efficient logistics industry. Implementing seamless logistics is a key element in keeping pace with consumer demands and outperforming competitors. In 2018, over 193 billion tonne kilometres of domestic freight was moved within the UK, of which 79% was transported by road. If these transport routes are not kept in tip-top shape, these figures will only decrease.

Share your view on this countries’ roads and the difference proper investment would make, on our Twitter or LinkedIn. You can also follow us for regular updates on the logistics industry as well as information on our logistics and warehousing services.

For more Barnes blogs, click here.

Do Clean Air Zones (CAZ) Have A Future?

in Driving, Logistics, News/by The Source Partnership

Clean Air Zones (CAZ) are being gradually rolled out across towns with major traffic gateways in a bid to reduce emissions. Manchester is one of the most recent locations that is set to implement Clean Air Zones. Consultations are to begin in October and will ask members of the public to give their views on the boundary zones, as well as charges, discounts and exemptions. The CAZ in this major city is due to be introduced in 2022.

Manchester, along with other large cities face C Class CAZs, which means that vehicles including buses, coaches, taxis, PHVs, HGVs and LGVs will have to pay a fee to enter the zone and travel in or around the city.

The Arguments Against Clean Air Zones

Naturally, the decision to implement Clean Air Zones is one not necessarily welcomed by the logistics industry, as these zones and subsequent charges could have a detrimental impact on services and the day-to-day running of logistics providers. We have recently discussed Clean Air Zones, and whether they’re good news or bad news. In short, some downfalls of this initiative include…

Encouraging additional traffic outside of cities, moving the problem as opposed to eradicating it
Fees would mean that costs would spike, meaning job threats and a risk of increased service costs
Longer driving routes which means more time on the roads and more emissions
Delayed service times, which could impact industries with a need for speed such as medical and groceries

The controversial zones have also been met with disdain from others outside of the logistics industry. Last year, Birmingham’s CAZ plans sparked calls to abandon the scheme after they were delayed initially from early 2019 to summer 2020. The plans have since been delayed further and commuters, taxi companies and residents seem to be in agreement with this outcome.

Do Clean Air Zones Have A Future?

With public outrage and a lack of support from UK industries, do Clean Air Zones have a future?

It’s unlikely that plans would be abandoned altogether, as there are already several areas that have been mandated by the Government to introduce a Clean Air Zone: Birmingham, Leeds, Nottingham, Derby and Southampton.

However, of these cities, none have CAZs fully in place at present. Birmingham’s plans are delayed until at least January 2021, as is the introduction of the zone to Leeds. In Derby, it’s not expected that a CAZ will be introduced at all now and Nottingham City Council has cancelled its plans for a CAZ too. In Southampton, there is a non-charging CAZ in operation that was introduced in 2017.

There’s been little progress in the way of introducing paid-for Clean Air Zones to target cities and although it’s unlikely they’ll be ruled out altogether, this does mean that their future becomes more of a grey area. It could be the case that other deterrents are considered instead of fees, or that non-charging zones become commonplace as they are in Southampton.

Southampton could be a possible indication for what might happen in the future. After deciding against a charge, the city has instead introduced measures that include…

Offering opportunities for businesses to assess and trial freight consolidation, removing HGV trips in the city
Introducing a traffic regulation condition to ensure large vehicles such as buses meet emission standards
Revising taxi licenses to remove vehicles with high emissions, and including a low emission scheme to support more operators in making environmentally friendly choices

It’s been estimated that thanks to £15m funding in these areas, in 2020 Southampton should have reduced nitrogen dioxide levels by 24% in the most polluted areas, without the need for a charging zone.

Similar rules could be laid out for the other mandated cities, instead of looking at hard charges that they are currently facing. Costs in Birmingham, for example, could be around £8 per day for cars and £50 per day for HGVs. Instead of introducing costs that could cripple the logistics industry and impact commuters and residents, perhaps a revision of the schemes is what the future might hold for CAZs. A solution that benefits all involved is vital.

Let us know whether you think Clean Air Zones have a future and any other thoughts, on our Twitter or LinkedIn pages. You can also follow us for regular updates on the logistics industry as well as information on our logistics and warehousing services.

Will Freezing Fuel Duty Help Logistics Recover?

in Logistics, News/by Barnes Logistics

According to FleetNews, Chancellor Rishi Sunak is considering ending a ten-year freeze on fuel tax in his upcoming Autumn Budget, which could see fuel duty increase by 5p. This measure is rumoured to be be considered due to the Coronavirus crisis and the impact that it has had on the country’s economy. However, organisations such as FairFuelUK which is backed by the Road Haulage Association (RHA) and Logistics UK (formerly FTA), has said it will “fight tooth and nail” against these plans.

Today, we’re looking at how a continued freeze of fuel duty will aid the recovery of the logistics industry following the hard times that it too has endured following the Covid-19 pandemic.

What Could A Hike In Fuel Duty Mean?

If the end to the freeze on fuel duty occurs during the Autumn budget, then this will bring a myriad of implications for those working in the logistics industry. From drivers, to company owners – the impact will be felt across the board.

According to FairFuelUK, UK drivers are still the most taxed in the world. They also predicted that had the fuel duty escalation continued as planned from 2011 onwards, as opposed to the freeze that was introduced, fuel duty today would be 83.33p per litre rather than 57.95p per litre, 43.8% higher. A serious expense for household drivers, as well as logistics companies.

A lift on restrictions on fuel duty this Autumn means that the price per litre that is paid for fuel can increase to no end. Currently, rates are capped at 57.95 pence per litre for petrol and diesel, but a lift of this freeze in prices could see this figure rise by as much as 5p.

An increase of this magnitude could seriously impact the recovery of the logistics industry following months of uncertainty. Higher fuel costs, meaning the price per job increases and either profit margins get lower, or prices have to increase. Either outcome is not favourable for logistics providers and their clients, this is why the industry must rally behind the likes of FairFuelUK, who are imploring the Government to consider the logistics sector, and what the end of the freeze on fuel tax could mean for it.

How Freezing Fuel Duty Will Aid Recovery

On the other hand, if a more favourable outcome is found in the Autumn 2020 budget, namely a continuation of the freeze on fuel duty, then this can help to aid the recovery of the logistics sector after months of hardship.

According to TouchStar, at the end of March, 76 per cent of respondents for a Logistics UK survey, reported a general downturn in business and by 3rd April, 69.5 per cent of companies had scaled back or suspended operations. Though many are now reporting an increase in normal supply chain performance, weeks of affected business has in no doubt put a strain on the industry. Whilst it recovers, a continued freeze of fuel duty would help contribute to the recuperation of the sector and ensure that profits do not take any further hits.

Not having to budget for an increased fuel cost, will mean more revenue can be set aside for innovation within businesses, as well as logistics recruitment. Both are important for the future of the sector, with the latter being crucial in targeting the skills gap in logistics.

A freeze will give the industry the chance it needs to get back on track, and to continue servicing the country in the way that it did post, and even during, national lockdown. What are your thoughts? You can interact with us on Twitter and LinkedIn, and remember you can engage with FairFuelUK to help to urge the chancellor to continue with the fuel duty freeze this autumn.

What Is Overnight Trunking – And What Are The Benefits?

in Driving, Logistics, News/by Barnes Logistics

Overnight Trunking is a logistics service utilised by The Barnes Group, it helps us to keep up with supplier demand whilst keeping costs to a minimum. Below, we’re going to run through what Night Trunking (also known as Overnight Trunking) is, and what the benefits of it are.

What Is Overnight Trunking?

‘Trunking’ means making deliveries using a regular route. ‘Overnight trunking’ is when HGV drivers utilise twilight hours for their logistical services, getting their cargo from A to B in one journey overnight.

Trunking jobs are quite popular amongst drivers because the routes are typically regular, and the roads are usually quieter to navigate. But it’s not just logistics workers that overnight trunking benefits. In fact, utilising this method means we can add more benefits to our service for new and existing clients.

What Are The Benefits Of Overnight Trunking?

One of the biggest benefits of overnight trunking in logistics is that due to the roads typically being quieter, the process is streamlined. There’s less traffic meaning that transportation usually takes less time than it does during the daytime, and you’re also more likely to be driving without traffic jams. Less engine idling is better for the environment.

Night trunking also means that consumer demands can be met with more ease, sometimes a night or early morning delivery is better for a client, and therefore operating in twilight hours helps to make the supply chain more streamlined to meet business needs.

The Barnes Group offer ‘Just In Time’ (JIT) logistical services, which means that we make use of precise timings to ensure maximum efficiency. Goods can be re-stocked and distributed before they are sold, which saves on costs by reducing the need for carrying extra inventory. Lead times are also more appropriately managed. Overnight trunking helps us to keep the JIT logistics method operating smoothly, and to service demand appropriately.

Through overnight trunking, we can also offer adhoc services when a client’s demand requires extra vehicles, this can help keep costs to a minimum as the procedure can be used on an ‘as you need it’ basis.

Trunking tends to cover long-distance haulage on ‘trunk roads’, which means that despite being based in the North West, we can service a network of customers all over the UK. As mentioned above, overnight driving usually means quieter roads and streamlined journeys, this means our drivers can travel quite the distance in a shift. As a logistics provider, this is a great benefit to us and to our clients also.

Logistics Services At The Barnes Group

At the Barnes Group, we have been working with some of the largest overnight freight networks in the world for years, keeping UK consumers happy. We have found this sector to be expanding at a phenomenal rate, and it’s no surprise with the number of benefits to both workers and consumer. We are capable of offering a simple adhoc service when demand requires extras or running vehicles out of your own sites to keep costs to a minimum.

To find out more about overnight trunking, and our other logistical services, you can contact us by clicking here.

“Just In Time Logistics” – Why Should You Use It?

in Customers, Driving, HGV, LGV, Logistics, lorry, News, safety, Uncategorized, weather/by The Source Partnership

Here at The Barnes Group, we specialise in Just In Time Logistics (JIT) – designed to make use of precise timings, ensuring maximum efficiency. This type of logistics allows for goods to be re-stocked and distributed before they are sold. Our highly trained warehouse operatives keep our warehouses running smoothly, allowing for efficient logistics targets to be met.

Through the clever calculation of lead times and reducing the cost of carrying extra stock inventory, JIT provides a desirable method to create more streamlined lead times and less money spent on inventory costs.

JIT is well thought of as a cost saving method – reducing the amount of inventory that is needed through the supply chain. This is otherwise known as the pull-method, where goods are produced at each stage, but only when they are required at the next stage. This process also prevents wastage caused by defective products, as every output is monitored before moving on to the next stage in the supply chain.

An optimised supply chain will help to deliver stock to customers in a timely manner, a strategy that spends as little money as possible. In turn, a streamlined supply chain will have a positive effect on customer satisfaction. Keeping down costs, reducing waste and keeping customers happy? JIT is certainly worth considering.

Here at The Barnes Group, we run a successful JIT strategy, that is well synchronised at every stage – helping to compress time and reduce cost for customers. With JIT, you have a faster turnaround on stock, therefore there is less of a need for so much warehouse or storage space. This frees up cost for spending on other aspects of a business.

For smaller companies, JIT is ideal for inventory management, as the process doesn’t require the purchase of large amounts of stock in one go. This logistics strategy instead, is economical and promotes a healthy cash flow for a business.

If you’re looking to introduce Just In Time logistics into your business plan, get in touch with The Barnes Group today on 0161 684 3070, to find out how our strategies can help to make your company more economical and reduce waste.

What Do Automotive Logistics Companies Like The Barnes Group Provide?

in Driving, HGV, Logistics, News/by Barnes Logistics

There are many areas of logistical and warehousing support, they can include the transportation of groceries, household goods, weapons and ammunition, and even vehicles. Amongst others, automotive logistics is one service that The Barnes Group provides – so what does it entail?

What Does Automotive Logistics Include?

Automotive Logistics can be defined as the supervision of delivery of an automotive product, including procurement, production to the delivery of the final product.

The blanket term ‘automotive’ covers the design, development, manufacturing, marketing, and selling of motor vehicles.

Automotive logistics doesn’t always mean transporting a car from A to B, it’s essential in the safe passage of tools and materials needed to build them from the beginning too.

The Importance Of Choosing The Right Automotive Logistics Provider

Choosing the correct automotive logistics provider can help to keep the supply chain moving efficiently. It’s paramount to work with a transport company that’s reliable and efficient. The production of motor vehicles is an intricate, and expensive job, so trust is very important. It’s also crucial to ensure that parts are transported not only safely, but in good time to ensure that there are no disruptions to the production line.

You’ll also need to choose an automotive logistics provider that is clued up on current UK-EU regulations. If crossing borders, it’s important to be aware of certain legislations that are in place to ensure the speedy and secure passage of your goods.

It’s also worth considering a company that makes proficient use of available technology. At the Barnes Group, we utilise a Transport Management System that helps with all aspects of efficiency from job orders to invoicing, as well as live vehicle tracking versus plan, sign on glass, and immediate POD availability.

What Automotive Logistics Services Do Barnes Offer?

The UK automotive industry is a vital part of the UK economy. The sector is worth more than £82 billion in turnover and adds £18.6 billion value to the UK economy. In 2019 alone, as reported by SSMT, there were over 1.3 million cars, 78,270 commercial vehicles and 2.5 million engines built in the UK.

This is without a doubt a hugely important industry to the UK, as well as overseas, and therefore it is important to work with the right automotive logistics providers to ensure smooth transactions in the manufacturing and delivery processes.

Supplying ‘Just-In-Time Logistics (JIT)’ solutions to leading UK automotive manufacturers, we are well placed to meet your critical transport requirements. The Barnes Group has been operating in the high-profile sector of automotive logistics for over 15 years, meaning that our already extensive knowledge is backed up by invaluable industry experience to manage all your movement, whether time-critical or not.

Just-in-Time (JIT) logistics is the concept of receiving and transporting materials, products and parts as they are needed, rather than weeks before. We prefer this method of logistics support, as it means that our clients have less supplies on hand to store and are only using products as needed. It also reduces waste and costs too. You can find out more about our Just-In-Time (JIT) services, for automotive and other sectors, on our blog.

Alongside providing automotive logistics services, the Barnes Group also offers:

Commercial vehicle maintenance
50,000 sq ft of warehousing space
General logistical support and specialist support in areas such as automotive, weapons, ammunition, ADR transport and night trunking

We do all of this by having a large range of logistical equipment available, including:

Ekeri trailers
Bulk liquid tankers
Car transporters
Low loaders
Flat beds
Skeletals
Curtain sliders

Customer service is integral to our business, and we pride ourselves in a well-managed fleet of over 80 vehicles for our nationwide client base. You can find out more about the automotive logistics solutions that we offer in the UK, and contact us, on our website or by emailing admin@www.barneslogistics.com.

What Is The Future Of Extended Supply Chains?

in HGV, Logistics, News/by Barnes Logistics

The logistics sector has been met with unprecedented struggles in the face of the Coronavirus outbreak. This, along with other factors, may well have compromised the future of extended supply chains. Below, we discuss further.

Threats To The Future Of Extended Supply Chains

There are a number of things that can pose challenges to the future of extended supply chains, including protectionism, sustainability, and arguably most threatening: Covid-19.

Covid-19 & The Future Of Extended Supply Chains

At The Barnes Group, we believe that the best run businesses in the world build robust supply chains along with contingency plans.

Whilst these kinds of businesses were understandably impacted during the pandemic, under normal conditions they should be able to keep up with significant fluctuations in demand. Demand for certain industries has piqued during the outbreak of Coronavirus, much more than anybody could have planned for – it was inevitable that extended supply chains would feel a strain; however, when normality resumes, it has to be presumed that the process will recover.

Businesses should continue to work on the principle of supplying the best value products to their consumers, that will also allow them to run their supply chain at an acceptable level of cost and risk.

When a business decides whether to import product from the other side of the world, many factors are taken into consideration and plans are made to enable a smooth supply into their facilities. Changes to the status quo are always somewhat disruptive, and when Covid-19 is added to this equation, there is little hope of businesses being able to adjust quickly enough to the huge fluctuations in demand.

These swings beyond the edge of the normal distribution curve were pretty much unheard of until now. As such, there is no amount of planning that could protect the supply chain at a cost that would make businesses viable in normal times.

The biggest threat to a well-managed supply chain is undoubtably a global pandemic such as Covid-19, but it is not a threat that cannot be overcome in the long-run.

Will Lessons From Covid-19 Mitigate Future Threats?

When the Covid-19 outbreak is over, there are lessons to be learned. Whilst it’s fair to assume that all companies will adjust their policies to include guidelines to follow in the event of another pandemic, the question of whether a business should use extended supply chains will come down to whether their stock would be in demand.

It’s entirely possible that supply chains could shorten to be closer to home, so that:

Travel times are shortened
Changes can be made more swiftly
Volumes can be changed more quickly
Quality control is easier to manage

There are lessons to be learned from Covid-19. It was so unexpected and prompt in its arrival, that hopefully some contingency plans can be put into place from lessons learned that may pre-empt any future pandemics that can threaten the future of the extended supply chain.

What Options Do Supply Chain Professionals Have?

A recent study by RetailX revealed that as many as 24% of consumers said they will continue to follow their new adopted shopping habits that they have picked up during the pandemic, meaning retailers and hauliers will have to adjust their procedures – likely to account for an increase in ecommerce.

As normality (or a ‘new normal’) begins to resume, supply chain professionals will have to adapt and adopt. The options they have include:

Providing a first-class service, coupled with strong marketing & technology
Ensuring economy for the business
Adapting competitive pricing models
Exampling reliability within the organisation

Such attitudes will support the future of extended supply chains.

The Barnes Group is one of the UK’s leading providers of logistical support and warehousing to time-critical businesses. For support for your organisation, please contact us.

How To Get A Job In Logistics – Skills & Qualities You Need

in Logistics, News/by Barnes Logistics

Logistics is one of the most rewarding careers for a myriad of reasons; flexibility, job control and travel perks to name a few. There are a range of roles within the industry, all requiring a different breadth of education and experience. Whether you’re just starting out, or have a seasoned career, there’ll be a role to suit you. If you’re wondering how to get a job in logistics, we’ve listed some of the skills and qualities you’ll need.

Why Work In Logistics?

A fulfilling job, logistics is an industry that will always be in demand and therefore one that’s very stable. There are a number of reasons why our own staff, and most in the sector, love working in logistics. They include:

Job security
Flexibility of hours
A rewarding career where you can see the benefits of your work
Trust in the ability to carry out your duties
Competitive pay rates
Higher education is not always essential
A community-driven workforce
Travel perks such as getting to explore new cities and towns

There are a number of different jobs in logistics, but the overarching benefits are often the same. Whether you’re working in the warehouses, offices or out on the road – you’ll be granted a level of responsibility and trust in every element of this sector.

What Jobs Are There?

Working in logistics doesn’t just mean being an HGV driver. At the Barnes Group, we have 50,000 sqft. of warehousing space, which creates a number of jobs including warehouse supervisors and stock pickers. Alongside this, there’s also jobs in vehicle maintenance, administration, loading, analysing, managing supply chains, HR, procurement and packaging. Whilst being a driver is one of the more common jobs in logistics, there are also many other avenues worth exploring.

How To Get A Job In Logistics

On to the big question, how do you get a job in logistics? There are a number of different ways you can enter this industry, they include:

Apprenticeships and higher apprenticeships
Applying for an entry-level job after further education
Driving recruitment agencies
Interviewing with a company directly for an advertised role

Remember that if you’re actively looking for opportunities in logistics, it’s not a bad idea to keep checking the websites of the companies you’re interested in, as well as social media and job boards.

Skills & Qualities Of A Good Logistics Worker

Though no two workers are the same, there are a number of blanket skills and qualities that most employees in the logistics sector will have…

Your hours will tend to be 35-40+ full-time); around 20+ (part-time), as such, you’ll need a level of dedication to your career.

A good logistics worker will also be able to display prolific attention to detail. You will be responsible for the safe passage of any number of goods, therefore being meticulous is a desirable skill.

Flexibility is also appreciated, as logistics is not your typical 9-5 job. In a way, this is often seen as a perk as you may be able to negotiate hours with your employer that best suit your lifestyle. The Barnes Group work to ‘just in time logistics’ which means that our strategies are precisely timed for maximum efficiency. Goods are restocked and distributed before they are sold out. This way of working requires a degree of trust and flexibility.

As the logistics industry has a strong sense of community, being a team-player is a good quality to possess if you’re seeking a role in this sector. You’ll likely be working with people from different departments day-to-day, so communication skills are imperative and being a ‘people person’ is desirable.

If you’re looking for your next role, or even for your first step on to the logistics career ladder, you can find out what roles we have available by contacting our team. The Barnes Group is an established logistics and warehousing service provider with over 20 years of experience in the supply chain.

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