Where you manufacture isn’t just a cost decision—it’s a bet on the future of your business. 81% of companies are accelerating their plans to bring supply chains closer to home. Yet, only 2% have fully completed to near-shores. Why is it so difficult?
The right decision depends on the right questions. Global supply chains are more complex than ever. Tariffs, labour costs, inventory risks, and shifting customer expectations mean you need to go beyond spreadsheets to find the best answer.
Before making your next manufacturing decision, ask yourself these critical questions:
What are the lifecycle demands of your product?
Are you producing for a market that demands rapid replenishment, or can your product withstand longer inventory pipelines? Short cycles favour proximity; longer ones allow flexibility—but only with appropriate risk management in place.
What are the real costs beyond labour?
Labour rates alone aren’t enough. Factor in automation investments, shipping costs, tariffs, and local energy or tax policies. Does the “cheapest” location still make sense when you consider the whole picture?
How exposed are you to geopolitical risks?
Long supply chains mean increased exposure to trade wars, customs delays, and local instability. Do you have contingency plans for disruption—or are you betting it won’t happen?
What do your customers expect?
Are your clients demanding local sourcing for faster turnaround or reduced risks? Missing delivery deadlines or compromising quality can cost you far more than choosing a more expensive location upfront.
Can your operations scale?
Are you investing in automation or skilled labour to future-proof the facility? A low-cost option today might become your biggest bottleneck tomorrow.
Your manufacturing decision isn’t just about your bottom line—it’s about whether you can meet/exceed customer expectations. Trust is built—or lost—on whether you can deliver quality, on time, every time.