Supply Chain Digital walks through the events of 2020 and 2021 that have contributed to the perfect storm of disruptions to the food supply chain and what they mean

COVID-19

Despite many countries returning to ‘ normal ’, the effects of COVID- 19 can still be felt throughout the supply chain . A cornucopia of backlogs , diversions , delays , and shortages emerged from the pandemic as operations ground to a halt . The supply chain hangover is likely to continue well into 2022 .

Extreme Weather

Sunny California , grower of 90 % of America ’ s canned tomatoes and a third of the world ’ s supply , faced ongoing droughts in July . The tomato joined its fellow fruit and vegetables that began to rise in price as demand outstripped supply .

Skill Shortage

From McDonald ’ s milkshakes to Domino ’ s Pizzas , from turkey to tomatoes , the shortage of skilled workers is affecting the supply of food . “ Like most retailers , we are currently experiencing some supply chain issues , impacting the availability of a small number of products ,” said a spokesperson for McDonald ’ s . Currently the UK has an estimated shortage of 100,000 HGV drivers . Other countries in Europe range from 124,000 in Poland to 10,000 in Scandinavia .

12 November 2021