We did something a little different with the article this year, in that we looked at the last three years’ worth of results and compared them. The reason for that is simple: The COVID-19 pandemic still dominates thinking and long-range planning, even as we have returned to something approaching normal. In 2019, it wasn’t on anybody’s radar; in 2020, the survey was conducted as it was throwing everything into upheaval; and this year, demand has somewhat normalized and processors have figured out ways to safely operate.

Most of you are all too aware of how processors suddenly learned they had weaknesses in their supply chains as countries or regions were hit hard by the pandemic, and had to scramble to shore up or replace elements of supply chains.

But there was one recurring theme throughout this year’s survey that I can’t stop thinking about, because the potential long-term ramifications are huge. The number of respondents reporting changes to or challenges within their supply chains spiked. Most of you are all too aware of how processors suddenly learned they had weaknesses in their supply chains as countries or regions were hit hard by the pandemic, and had to scramble to shore up or replace elements of supply chains.

Supply chain management has come a long way in the food and beverage industry, and many processors have focused on efficiency and just-in-time deliveries. That’s all great under normal circumstances, but when something causes a widespread disruption, it doesn’t take much to turn a delay into a disaster.

It’s not just ingredients. It’s packaging materials, construction materials and everything else that processors need to maintain and expand their operations. Whatever it is, it’s probably harder to get than it was two years ago, and the industry has had to adjust.

That’s something we’ll be keeping a close eye on, and I’m sure you will too. Because the supply chain is only as strong as its weakest link, and we’ve learned it may be weaker than we thought.