Does Online Shopping Boost Manufacturing?

Over the last 12 months, we have endured tough, restrictive lockdowns, and as a result, consumers have adapted their shopping habits. The number of online transactions and the demand for products has been record-breaking, but what does this mean for manufacturing? 

While smart manufacturing has already enabled streamlined processes, demand and growth in online shopping have boosted the manufacturing industry.

As an industry leader in spring manufacturing, we believe it’s not going to stop anytime soon. This new shopping behaviour has been integrated into our routine.

In this blog, we’ll discuss online shopping, including the positive impact of this consumer behaviour on manufacturing, new norms and the increase in demand online. 

Adapting to High Demand 

The pandemic urged more shoppers online and the demand for certain products is now booming as a result of this increase. Items such as smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors have driven the demand for components like spring pressings and battery contacts directly from our manufacturing customers.

With many manufacturers feeling the pressure to produce high-quality items in larger volumes, the relationship between manufacturers and their customers is becoming more important. 

Many manufacturing firms are attending to the direct needs of their customers by investing more time and budget into data-driven insights, which can inform their operational strategies.

Expansion and Job Opportunities  

The increase in online shopping can extend your global reach and provide a boost for workers, who can become more involved in logistical, technological and strategic tasks.

With the implementation of new smart technologies coupled with the boom in online sales, we believe that manufacturers are placed to offer better-paying and more rewarding jobs in the near future.

You can invest in hiring skilled employees to operate equipment, manage websites and stock, as well as work toward running a more sustainable and efficient business.

Continued Digital Investment 

The impact of COVID-19 exposed many manufacturing companies that relied solely on a physical workspace and large labour force. 

AI and Smart Factory technology have been around for a while, and those who have invested in smart-tech are reaping the rewards from online sales and much more. By building your businesses and streamlining your processes, you can benefit from working at normal capacity under most circumstances.

By investing in technologies such as machine learning, robotics, edge computing, the 5G network, sensors, and cloud computing, you can enrich your supply chain, build for the future of online shopping and identify areas for machine investment and growth.

The future of manufacturing is indeed nodding toward a more automated approach, so it’s essential to keep up with not only your competitors but your customers, who are now spending more time online than ever. 

By shifting to a digitally-led approach, you can quickly improve your offering to customers worldwide. It’s never too late to invest in automation, including taking steps like training your team on the latest technologies. Implementing a robust process can safeguard against future pandemics, save time and money, as well as build your business for the future. 

Localising Production and Sustainable Working

Online shopping has advanced significantly, so much so that more people are now thinking about their consumption habits, especially with regards to environmental pollution and the ethical impacts of imported goods.

Many manufacturers are moving toward a more conscious approach, and their online shop is an extension of this. 

When you combine consumer behaviour with ongoing trade wars and tariff negotiations that have affected supply chains, the future of manufacturing will likely consider the benefits of purchasing and selling local goods. 

At European Springs & Pressings, we’re committed to ensuring that our supply chain remains as robust as ever, and you’ll find that our products proudly display the ‘Made In Britain’ logo.

Access to data surrounding online trends means that manufacturers can reduce waste, promote recycled materials, or even switch to green energy sources. 

As one of the most reliable and highly praised spring manufacturers in Europe, we’re excited to see what the future of manufacturing has in store.

We’re confident that we will go from strength to strength as the manufacturing industry evolves. If you have any questions about our products and services, do not hesitate to contact us.