Keeping the Supply Chain Going in Uncertain Times

When Bob Dylan wrote the iconic lyrics for “The Times They Are A-Changin” back in the early 1960s, I don’t think he or any of us could have imagined the devastating COVID-19 pandemic.

The food and beverage manufacturing industry has weathered many economic storms and always comes back strong. I feel privileged to have worked in this industry for most of my career. I am also proud of the demanding and essential work our industry is performing to continue to support our country and the world’s need for the vital food supply chain. 

As the virus continued to mount in mid-March, I conducted a small poll of a few food and beverage manufacturers to get a feel for some of our readers’ greatest challenges and solutions to meet production demands. The findings were:

• Supply chains are not disrupted yet, but there are some worries if the crisis continues into the summer.

• Some capital projects and process improvement projects are delayed due to bans on outside visitors.

• Food and beverage companies are providing extra pay and bonuses to plant workers.