We all learned a few lessons in 2020, the most notable of which may be that there’s no way to predict the future. You may also have learned that when a crisis hits, it’s important to have a procurement partner with a powerful supply chain that can still deliver when disruptions occur. That’s why HSM makes it a priority to build a robust and stable supply chain that can endure market volatility and weather any storm … or wildfire, or earthquake or global pandemic.

The best defense, of course, is to have a strong offense – or in this case, a strong supply chain before disaster strikes. To achieve this, HSM relies on strategic supplier partnerships that are developed through a deep-routed process. First, we comprehensively vet all of our suppliers, which includes taking into consideration manufacturing capabilities, locations, material sourcing, distribution, sales volume, corporate structure and financial wealth. We also take a category approach, selecting dedicated supplier partners for each category, and identifying supplier strengths based on region to minimize cost and maximize efficiency. This level of strategy and due diligence creates a sturdy end-to-end supply chain solution.

That being said, it’s inevitable that disruptions can and will occur. For this reason, risk mitigation is a big part of our overall sourcing strategy, with both short-term and long-term solutions. When disruptions are brief, we can shift orders over to an alternate established supplier and keep the supply chain moving. For a collapse or larger disruption of a supply line, we leverage our extensive network of supplier partners for a replacement solution. This may be an interim solution at first to maintain consistent supply while we develop an ideal permanent solution. In either case, having established relationships with a wide network of vetted suppliers allows us to be agile and to ensure seamless transitions.

At HSM, we understand that our customers are conducting business in a world that is in a state of constant flux, and that can and will affect the flow of your supply chain. We are also keeping an eye on that world to be proactive when economic, political or natural upheaval occurs. HSM is a trusted partner who can help you anticipate disruptions when possible; mitigate risks before, during and after they arise; align your business with a wide network of reliable, high-quality suppliers; and offer you viable supply chain solutions to keep your business moving in the right direction. Like we’ve all learned, you can’t predict the future, but you can be well-positioned to meet it.