COVID-19 PANDEMIC'S IMPACT ON LOGISTICS AND SUPPLY CHAIN INDUSTRY

Abstract

The logistics and supply chain industry forms the backbone of global business and ensures the smooth movement of goods and services. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in late 2019 set off a chain reaction that profoundly affected these critical operations.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to analyze the multifaceted impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the logistics and supply chain industry. It aims to explore the challenges faced by supply chain professionals, the strategies organizations use to mitigate disruptions and the resulting changes in industry dynamics.

Methods: The research uses a mixed method approach that includes both quantitative and qualitative data collection. Quantitative data is collected from a survey of companies in the logistics and supply chain industry. Qualitative data is collected from interviews with experts in the field.

Findings: The pandemic has exposed a series of challenges that have spread throughout the supply chain. Disruptions included factory shutdowns, transportation restrictions, erratic demand patterns, and labour shortages. Organizations are responding by rapidly adopting digital technology, where real-time monitoring, predictive analytics and automation play a central role in improving supply chain visibility, sustainability and risk management.

Conclusions: The study concludes that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the logistics and supply chain industry. The pandemic has brought many challenges to companies, but it has also brought innovations and new ways of working. Research shows that the logistics and supply chain industry is in transition, and companies that adapt to the new reality will be better off in the long run.