Last spring we were shopping for garage doors. Lumber prices had skyrocketed – almost to the price of gold. So we chose steel. As did everyone else. Wood is now cheaper. And we’re still waiting for our doors.  

The industry publication Supply Chain Management Review reported that 2021 is on a record pace for factory fires – up 150% this year caused by “gaps in regulatory and process execution as well as a shortage of skilled labor in warehouses.”  

They also analyzed data showing supply-specific shortages were up over seven-fold from 2020. These are due to merger-related activities, as new owners drive for operating efficiencies, leaner inventories, and lower costs. All while still attempting to meet evolving customer demand...