T
o complete orders and supply products and solutions within expected timescales, the chemical sector needs to maintain a smooth supply chain. With a range of disruptive issues currently having an operational impact on the
industry, Ben Beattie, manager of Forbeats, explains how partnerships with experienced toll processors enable manufacturers to mitigate bottlenecks, shortages and delays.
A SUCCESSION OF CHALLENGES While the UK chemical supply chain remains robust, its dependence on imported materials and products means it is not immune to international events. Now well into its fourth year, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war means there continues to be a shortage of the many goods these two nations supply. Besides scarcity, this has also led to higher prices for products and energy while disrupting vital shipping lanes in the Black Sea and depriving Eastern European haulage companies of Ukrainian drivers, a large proportion of the workforce, many of whom now serve in the armed forces.
Compounding this issue is the more recent on dozens of vessels travelling through the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea have made the Suez Canal a no-go route for many shipping companies. The only alternative passage to Europe is around South Africa, a far longer
TOLL PROCESSING: OVERCOMING THE CHAIN DISRUPTION
journey which delays deliveries, reduces cargo As a consequence, this exacerbates shortages and raises prices for the UK supply chain. Closer to home, the chemical supply chain is still struggling with the evolving impact of Brexit. Inadequate infrastructure and lack of border staff on both sides of the UK-EU border means lengthy delays at ports continue, while businesses are saddled with complex and excessive bureaucracy and additional costs when they import and export goods. Meanwhile, despite a three-year extension of deadlines and a commitment by the Government to consult on a new model, the challenges surrounding UK REACH are yet to be resolved.
Together, these issues have a disruptive impact on the supply chain. Manufacturers
16 MARCH 2025 |
supply and when they are available, they cost more and frequently fail to arrive on time. As a result, production across the chemical sector is impeded.
ENSURING PRODUCTION RUNS SMOOTHLY
Partnering with an experienced toll processor is a proven way for manufacturers to tackle shortages, delays and bottlenecks, enabling assured quality and within deadlines. Moreover, with the agility to cater for both ongoing and one-off operations and the capacity to deliver the complete spectrum of processing and chemical handling requirements, including hazardous chemicals, experienced
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