Supply Chain

Since the invasion of Ukraine began, the increasing financial and reputational risks of doing business in Russia are leading Western brands to halt operations.

Americans can now breathe a sigh of relief as U.S. cities and states are easing Covid-19 restrictions. But the prolonged shortages and high prices caused by a new wave of global supply-chain disruptions are another matter.  

If you’ve been waiting six months for a sofa, washer, kitchen cabinets, or a special-order part, your frustration is understandable. Delivery delays of soft furnishings, textiles, large and small appliances, electronics, and other housewares have been a huge hassle.

For many consumers, there’s no sweeter sound than “free upgrade.” But in some cases, the replacement isn’t much of a step up. An energy-conscious rental-car consumer won’t care to be bumped from an economy model to a full-sized gas-guzzler. Or an airline passenger might resist moving from an aisle seat in coach to a middle seat in premium even though it has more legroom.

Jeff talks about the power exercised by governments during the pandemic; Pelin Pekgun of the Darla Moore School Of Business discusses the causes and solutions to supply chain problems; Rory O'Neill has the latest on Ukraine; Larry Behrens of Power The Future discusses the proposal to suspend the federal gas tax.

Car buyers should not expect a quick return to normal pricing and inventory availability even as auto production begins to return to prepandemic levels later this year, analysts say.

SPRINGFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM)—If you’ve been having trouble getting ahold of your favorite products, or waiting weeks to get your car repaired, you’re not alone. Ongoing supply chain issues have caused shortages of everything from food items to auto parts to retail items.

In 2020, healthcare distributors delivered over 51 billion personal protective equipment (PPE) supplies to providers on the frontlines of the fight against COVID-19.

Over 30 million adults have opted to take a pass on the COVID-19 vaccines, including around 3 million people over 65 years-old. They are exercising their personal choice to remain unprotected against the virus through vaccination, choosing to accept the associated risks. 

KUALA LUMPUR (Feb 1): Ending tariffs for products imported from China, creating incentives for US firms to diversify their supply base and addressing some of the supply chain security issues are the steps the US can take to shore up supply chains.