British American Tobacco ( BAT ) is pioneering a new approach to supply chain management , combining digital innovation with sustainable practices to navigate an increasingly complex landscape .

Revealing how the multinational corporation is future-proofing its operations , Chief Operating Officer Johan Vandermeulen points to a triple threat of emerging challenges – beginning with geopolitical instability .

“ With the number of conflicts , trade barriers and new regional alliances increasing rapidly , a flexible and responsive global sourcing model is no longer a ‘ nice-to-have ’ but a strategic imperative ,” Johan asserts .

The second major challenge centres on mitigating environmental impact , as nations struggle to limit global warming to 1.5 ° C , per the Paris Climate Agreement .