IGD presents Supply chain trends 2026 report

IGD presents Supply chain trends 2026 report, an essential guide to navigating supply chain transformation

IGD has launched a new ‘Supply chain trends 2026’ report which provides in-depth analysis, actionable insights and case studies across all parts of the supply chain. This includes trends across the following areas: technological, manufacturing, warehousing, logistics and retail & fulfilment.

Supply chain headwinds have never been stronger. From geopolitical tensions and extreme weather to rising costs and security threats, disruption is more than risk management, it’s an ongoing, intensifying battle.

However, there are real opportunities to future-proof operations and create the conditions to thrive, by focusing on transformational change to improve performance while optimising costs.

James Rothwell, Head of Supply Chain Insights at IGD, comments:

“Whichever role your business plays in the supply chain, this report offers the rigorous insights and cutting-edge ideas you need to spark transformation. The future of the food supply chain is secure, sustainable, smart, and built to meet customer needs - but it will not build itself. It requires vision, investment, and collaboration. Our call to action is to act now and lead change instead of reacting to it.”

As well as outlining trends across the different parts of the supply chain, the report also identifies shared goals in common, with four clear themes to take forward into action over the next few years:

1. Sustainability will remain an investment priority
   Delivering a sustainable, robust operation remains a key trend for all parts of the supply chain; there will be an ongoing need to reduce emissions.

2. Secure supply chains will be foundational for future strategies
   Supply chain security is becoming a critical concern for manufacturing and logistics, sectors that face heightened exposure to fuel and energy volatility. The risk of disruption must be embedded into strategic planning to safeguard continuity and resilience.

3. Technology will enable cost pressures to be mitigated
   Companies are expected to put continued downward pressure on costs, which will have to be set against rising customer expectations. Automation and digitalisation will be key enablers to delivering better metrics at lower costs.

4. Speed and flexibility become increasingly important in the last mile
   Sustainability, security, and technological innovation remain essential, but they won’t satisfy evolving customer expectations alone. Success will depend on balancing these themes with greater flexibility, faster delivery, and personalised experiences that align with how customers choose to shop.

James Rothwell concludes:

“As disruption risks intensify, the food industry is accelerating investment and transformation by harnessing technology and sustainable practices to build future-ready supply chains. These shifts will offset rising costs and unlock performance and capacity for tomorrow’s food system. Those who set bold strategies, foster collaboration, and forge critical partnerships will win in the long term.”
To read a summary of the ‘Supply chain trends 2026’ report, visit: https://www.igd.com/reports/highlights-supply-chain-trends-2026/71864.

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Notes to editors:

1. All content is owned by IGD. If you use or refer to any content in this press release, please credit IGD.

2. Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/igd/

3. IGD brings together stakeholders from across the food system, fostering action across on critical challenges across a broad cross section of forums. Through evidence-based insights, credible research, and thought leadership, IGD guides businesses to make informed decisions that not only benefit their operations but also contribute to the collective good of society. As a charity with a long-standing commitment to the food and grocery industry, IGD does not advocate for any single commercial interest but works towards fostering alignment on shared goals that can have a positive, lasting impact on both the industry and the communities it serves. Its neutrality and impartiality are key to its role in facilitating collaboration, whether through policy development or addressing emerging risks and opportunities. By staying connected to the changing dynamics of the world, IGD ensures that the food system remains robust and sustainable, creating tangible benefits for businesses, consumers and society.