Uncertain Times Ahead: Insights from the 2026 Supply Chain Forecast
The challenges that shaped global supply chains in 2025 are set to persist well into 2026 and beyond. New insights from the 2026 Forecasting Report by Sedgwick highlight pressing issues that are likely to affect businesses worldwide.
Key Findings from the Report
This annual report is based on feedback from 300 executives from Fortune 500 companies across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. It offers a comprehensive analysis of risks pertaining to several areas, such as supply chain operations, technology implementation, labor market conditions, and catastrophe exposure.
Trade Policies and Business Impact
Trade policy has emerged as a significant area of concern. According to the findings, two-thirds of the executives believe that recent U.S. trade policies have adversely affected their operations, with only 3% noting any beneficial outcomes. Manufacturing and retail sectors are particularly suffering from these trade uncertainties.
The Geopolitical Landscape
Geopolitical stability remains a prevalent worry for business leaders, with 65% identifying economic and geopolitical factors as a major risk to their supply chains. Furthermore, 38% of respondents highlighted cybersecurity threats as an emerging vulnerability within their supply networks.
“Supply chain risk has become a defining challenge for 2026, fueled by global volatility, shifting trade policies, material shortages, and labor constraints,” remarked the researchers. “Disruption has become the norm, not the exception. Organizations that focus on agility, diversifying their supplier base, and investing in proactive planning and technology will thrive.”
Broader Risks Beyond Supply Chains
In addition to the supply chain challenges, the report underscores an array of risks linked to artificial intelligence, workforce availability, and extreme weather. Although 70% of the executives have set up AI risk committees, only 14% claim to be fully prepared for AI deployment. Nearly one-third acknowledge they are either struggling to keep pace or are already behind in this aspect.
Looking Ahead: Strategies for Resilience
“Navigating risk in 2026 requires planning for uncertainties beyond immediate concerns,” stated Mike Arbour. “This report is meant to guide companies in all sectors. Achieving long-term success hinges on a comprehensive understanding of both current and future risks.”
As businesses brace for the challenges ahead, fostering resilience through strategic planning and enhanced awareness of the evolving landscape will be key to navigating the uncertain terrain of the upcoming year.
