24th September, 1300-1430 BST
This session aims to explore and understand the evolution of both global manufacturing and Chinese industrialisation, taking both industrial and academic perspectives on emerging challenges, opportunities and interdependencies.
Over the last 25 years, following continuous waves of globalisation of manufacturing industries we have seen a rethink by many Multinationals driven by economic, political and technological changes that are requiring more responsive, resilient and sustainable operations. The economic challenges posed by COVID-19 are far from behind us but have emphasised the need for responsive operations, with major volume shifts (in both directions) requiring more regional and local supply chains. The continued trade-war between the major global players, and push-back on regionalisation trends that have dominated the previous era, have presented further requirements for multinationals to be able to adapt to changing tariffs and protectionist measures. Industry responses to climate-change are perhaps for the first time significantly influencing manufacturing supply chain footprints with advanced manufacturing technology choices redefining scale economies and location decisions. Digitalisation of manufacturing supply chains now offers both connected operations with B2B customers, and in the cases of B2C sectors, rapid replenishment based on near real-time demand. So how might manufacturing organisations reconfigure their manufacturing supply networks to address these challenges?
Our industrial speaker, Per Berggren from IKEA Industries will be sharing thoughts on how industry has responded to the unprecedented demand shifts during the year and how digitalisation of operations has enabled more responsive supply. Professor Mike Gregory from the University of Cambridge, will share his insights from past waves of globalisation as he reflects on 25 years of International Manufacturing research and how collaborations across industry, policy makers and academia can support further innovation in the development of international manufacturing supply chains.
Keynote speakers’ introduction:
It is very timely to have the focused session in this year’s Cambridge Symposium to debate these issues and explore future scenarios. In order to facilitate discussions, the focused session will have two introductory contributions from leading speakers to introduce their insights in this area, and share their perspectives on the future evolution of international manufacturing supply networks. And we look forward to an engaging follow-on debate!
Speakers
- Per Berggren, IKEA Industries
- Professor Mike Gregory, University of Cambridge
Facilitators: Dr Yongjiang Shi and Dr Jag Srai
