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Proactive manufacturers are leaning on predictive demand planning processes to estimate and get ahead of changing capacity and down-the-line supply chain needs.

This issue of ASI features a number of topics, including formulating ultra-low monomer solvent-free adhesives, how to optimize a manufacturing process with heat-activated sealants and structural adhesives, using captured carbon to create methanol for adhesives, and innovations for the packaging of adhesives. 

Risks abound in the global supply chain and goods movement systems. The only successful strategy to thrive is to create a resilient supply chain. According to the Global Port Tracker (GPT) report from Hackett Associates and the National Retail Federation (NRF), the specter of labor strife and new tariffs, along with strong sales, is driving U.S. retailers to keep imports surging through the spring. 

Product packaging is one of the many areas where consumer and brand-driven demands for more sustainable solutions are high. 

According to a McKinsey study, investment in supply chain digitization is slowing down after rapid growth in 2020-2023. On the other hand, the McKinsey Global Supply Chain Leader Survey finds that nine out of 10 respondents continue to experience supply chain challenges. 

Scientists have discovered a hearth in an excavation area of the Vanguard Cave, a natural sea cave in Gibraltar, that shows evidence of what one might be tempted to call the first adhesive and sealant "factory."

Opportunities to increase market share will increase when companies are pre-positioned for growth in a resilient and scalable way.

There are two pieces of information that have been repeatedly presented to me since I started editing this publication: one – people in this industry work very hard to create new chemistries to solve large and small problems across many, many industries; and two – the average person never really considers the impact adhesives and sealants have on their day-to-day lives. 

During uncertain times, manufacturers can adopt new methods to create stability and deliver sustainable bottom-line results.