The impact of Covid-19 has impacted virtually every aspect of life in one way or another. The supply chain is high at the top of the list of things that have been negatively and severely impacted. This has affected all businesses that produce the products that consumers rely on, including pet food transportation and production. Supply chains have been pushed to the limits or have been completely destroyed, most notably in the retail sector.
Transportation Challenges for Pet Food
In regards to the pet food industry, manufacturers, distributors, and sellers are facing challenges in every element of the supply chain. This includes everything from sourcing ingredients to getting the final product to consumer endpoints. Nonetheless, pets have to eat, so transportation challenges must be dealt with. Fortunately, retailers have risen to the challenge.
Here’s a look at some of the ways the pet food industry is dealing with the transportation challenges as a result of the crippled supply chain, all to ensure our furry friends can be fed.
Distributor Diversification
Utilizing multiple distributors rather than relying on a single distributor to fill in the gaps has been a big help. By connecting with several distributors, pet food retailers are managing to find what they need to get their products on store shelves and into the homes of consumers. Having reliable pet food manufacturers and sales reps that can keep businesses informed has also proven to be beneficial.
Alternative Stocks
When a specific type of dog or cat food is out of stock, sellers can make their customers aware of the alternatives. This might include products they have in stock that are either sold by the brands that they prefer or that are similar to the brands or products that their furry friends prefer. By educating their customers about the different pet food ingredients and also alternative options that are available, pet owners can ensure their four-legged family members will continue to be well-nourished.
Keep Lines of Communication Open
It’s well known that when it comes to doing business, honesty is always the best policy. This is particularly true when facing supply shortages that have been caused by supply chain disruptions. Retailers should stay abreast of the facts that pertain to the products they offer. Then, they should communicate that information to their customers so that they are well-informed. It is then up to the pet parents to make the adjustments that are necessary to keep their pets fed.
Lobbying
Pet food retailers can and should lobby local, state, and congressional leaders on all elements of supply chain issues. Outlining transportation challenges can be an effective way to improve the situation. This helps to ensure that they continue receiving the products they sell and that their consumers need to keep their pets fed.
Additional Information: Pet Food Institute Highlights Supply Chain and Manufacturing Challenges Exposed by COVID-19 Pandemic
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