Retail supply chain leaders say disruption is now a critical issue

A new DP World survey of retail supply chain leaders in Canada and the United States finds disruption has become a central business concern. Nearly all respondents, at 95 per cent, say it is extremely or very important to their organization.

Transportation remains the biggest operational challenge. More than half, at 57 per cent, reported bottlenecks or port congestion in the past year, and 44 per cent cited labour shortages or work stoppages.

Trade uncertainty is also changing routing decisions and 74 per cent, said they are adjusting supply chain routes in response to tariffs and shifting trade policies.

Technology investment continues to rise. Nearly all respondents said technology is critical for demand forecasting, inventory management and predicting disruptions, including 97 per cent for forecasting, 91 per cent for inventory management and 87 per cent for disruption prediction. More than half reported increasing their use of third‑party logistics providers to improve resilience.

DP World logistics chief commercial officer Brittany Caskey said retailers are shifting from optimizing for cost and speed to prioritizing adaptability and visibility across their networks.

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