Exploring Supply Chain Trends: A Collaborative approach followed by the University of Antwerp and University of Pretoria students

Introduction

In a groundbreaking collaboration, the University of Antwerp and the University of Pretoria have joined forces to delve into the dynamic supply chain management landscape. Led by esteemed coordinators Dr. Valentin Carlan , Prof. Roel Gevaers , and Dr Danie Nel , this interdisciplinary initiative aimed to examine and dissect the evolving supply chain trends during the 2022-2023 period. The collaboration not only focused on understanding the current state of affairs in Belgium and South Africa but also sought to predict future implications and propose strategic solutions. The students were encouraged to shake hands digitally and to find their own digital means to collaborate.

?

Students' collaborative assignment

Students were tasked with a comprehensive assignment as an integral part of this collaborative initiative. They were required to produce a 6-10 page report delving into the intricacies of the supply chain trend identified during the 2022-2023 period. This report is a repository of in-depth research, critical analysis, and practical industry insights.

In addition to the written report, students were challenged to bring their findings to life through a video presentation. This dynamic component allows for a more engaging exploration of the trends, providing a visual and auditory dimension to complement the detailed written analysis.

?

This common assignment stimulates students to think about the following topics

1. Alignment of industry practices with Supply Chain Management Theories

The collaborative effort of students was not merely limited to observing trends but will also critically assess their alignment with established supply chain management theories, models, and frameworks. By comparing the observed trends with theoretical constructs, the students aimed to uncover any gaps or synergies, providing a deeper understanding of the dynamics at play.

2. Anticipating Future Impacts

The collaboration did not stop at examining current trends; it extends into the realm of foresight. Prof. Gevaers, Dr Carlan, and Dr Nel, along with their student teams, used their expertise to anticipate and predict how the identified trend will impact supply chains in Europe, specifically Belgium and Southern Africa, particularly South Africa, beyond the year 2023. This forward-looking approach aimed to equip businesses and policymakers with valuable insights for strategic planning.

3. Proposing Supply Chain Strategies

Building on the anticipated impacts, the student collaboration proactively proposes supply chain strategies tailored to capitalise on emerging opportunities or navigate challenges associated with the identified trend. These strategies served as a guide for businesses and organisations looking to optimise their supply chain operations in response to the evolving landscape.

?

Insights regarding the evolution of energy consumption for supply chains in the context of 2022-2023 crysis

To gain a more profound understanding of the research conducted by these students, we selected the work of a group of students to serve as an example. Good work Lien Dingemans , Anke Fierens , Indra Peeters , Lisse Van Hasselt , Jana Geudens , Armand Visagie !

To comprehend the ever-changing landscape of supply chain management, this student collaboration meticulously analysed how trends have evolved in the years 2022-2023. The research drew insights from diverse South African and Belgian industries, providing a comprehensive overview of the trends shaping their supply chains. Examples from sectors such as manufacturing, technology, and healthcare were also explored to illustrate the nuanced nature of these developments. Students' analyses showed that while in South Africa, one of the most pressing issues is the lack of infrastructure and resources to support sustainable practices, Belgium companies already taken initiatives to reduce energy consumption or to switch to green energy sources. From a global perspective, although it was difficult to pinpoint a common practice, it is noticeable that companies started to investigate concepts such as the recycling economy and circular economy to produce as little waste as possible and reuse as much as possible. This includes renewable energy, reusing packaging, etc.

See the studens' presentation video here:

video presentation

Continuation in 2023-2024

We are excited to announce that the collaborative effort between the University of Antwerp and the University of Pretoria will extend into the 2023-2024. Building upon the successes and insights garnered from the current collaboration, Prof. Roel Gevaers, Dr. Valentin Carlan, and Dr. Danie Nel are committed to guiding further the students in understanding how supply chain dynamics are evolving. Stay tuned for another year of interesting research, analysis, and strategic foresight as we continue to explore the intricacies of supply chain management in Europe and Southern Africa.

?

Dr. Valentin Carlan

Dr. Danie Nel

Prof. Roel Gevaers

?