The reichelt Supply Chain Report 2025 reveals that, while companies are coping better with volatile supply chains, they are under enormous price pressure
Global trade continues to be in a state of upheaval. The fifth annual study by OnePoll, commissioned by reichelt Elektronik, shows how companies are maintaining their supply chains in a world of new tariffs, price increases and other conflicts. The study surveyed 1.500 European industrial companies on the state of their supply chains.
A slight sense of optimism
Even in 2025, the companies surveyed are still struggling with their supply chains. Ninety-six per cent of respondents reported that supply chain bottlenecks were affecting their business, with almost a third (27 per cent) reporting severe disruptions. However, the number of days on which operations have had to be halted due to supply chain bottlenecks has fallen and remains at a low level. This year, the average was just 23 days, compared to 22 days last year and 36 days in 2021.
Overall, the procurement of components was perceived as somewhat easier than in recent years. While 38 per cent of companies considered purchasing components difficult in 2023, this figure fell to 27 per cent last year and has now dropped further to 24 per cent. This means that the proportion has almost halved in two years. Even more encouraging is the fact that half (52%) of respondents expect the situation to improve over the next twelve months — a significant increase from 43% last year.
Adaptability in difficult situations
However, closer inspection of the figures reveals that the situation regarding the procurement of components remains difficult for certain product groups, with some experiencing an even greater degree of difficulty. Thirty-five per cent of respondents reported problems when purchasing semiconductors, which is six percentage points higher than last year and makes them the most problematic component once again. Spare parts (33% vs. 26% last year) and sensors (29% vs. 31% in 2024) are in second and third place. Procurement of battery and charging technology, measurement technology, and computer components such as RAM, hard drives, and graphics cards was also considered significantly more problematic than last year.
However, companies are finding it even more challenging to cope with price increases (76%) for critical components than with supply chain bottlenecks (60%). Last year, only 62 per cent complained about high prices. This represents a significant increase. Furthermore, more companies are reporting ongoing competitive pressure from cheaper manufacturers (55% versus 54% last year). This means that companies are under particular financial pressure. The difficult economic situation globally (65%) is exacerbating this.
Nevertheless, the fact that there have been fewer production shutdowns testifies to the resilience of companies. In recent years, they have made considerable efforts to make their supply chains more resilient to crises. Just almost half (48%) have already diversified their supply chains, and a further 47% are planning to do so. Furthermore, 46 per cent have switched to more local suppliers to reduce their dependence on global supply chains. Similarly, many have taken measures to increase cybersecurity in the supply chain to protect themselves from attacks. By doing so, companies can ensure smooth operations and maintain their profitability.
Automation: success and challenges
In order to strengthen the resilience of their supply chains further, European companies are investing in automation. Last year, 40 per cent invested in such solutions, while a further 41 per cent intend to do so next year. In addition, 43 per cent optimised existing solutions.
When asked about areas of the supply chain that are already automated, the majority (61%) cited inventory management. This was followed by order processing (56%) and transparency and tracking, including end-to-end shipment tracking (41%). Forward-looking planning technologies, such as smart supply chains, were rarely mentioned (36%).
The two biggest challenges in implementing a smart supply chain are dependence on other manufacturers (29%) and difficulties integrating it into existing systems (26%). Other factors holding companies back at present include high investment costs (26%) and cybersecurity concerns (22%).
In times of war and tariff disputes, hope lies in European unity.
Political events and developments continue to shape companies’ economic prospects. Among the factors cited, newly imposed US tariffs are seen as the most damaging, with 38% of respondents identifying them as a concern. The war in Ukraine follows, highlighted by 23% of those surveyed, while ongoing tensions and the potential for a trade war between the EU and China are viewed as a threat by 27%.
This is why many companies are focusing on Europe. In the last 12 months, 42 per cent of them have entered into new trade relationships with companies from Northern, Western or Central Europe. Although only 29 per cent have established trade relationships with partners from Eastern and Southern Europe, 41 per cent say they plan to do so next year. These figures are significantly lower for partners from other continents. For instance, only 22 per cent of companies have formed new partnerships in the USA in recent months. Similarly low results were seen in East Asia and Southeast Asia (17 per cent and 20 per cent respectively).
Accordingly, people’s wishes expressed to politicians also focus on strengthening European cohesion. Almost one half (45%) would like to see the removal of bureaucratic hurdles within the EU, thereby strengthening the single market. Economic support programmes are also popular with companies (38%).
Conclusion
‘If the last five years have taught us anything, it’s that we’re living in an era of upheaval,’ says Christian Reinwald. ‘As quickly as the supply chain situation changes due to pandemics, wars, trade conflicts or other unforeseen events, companies must change and adapt just as quickly.’ Automation and smart supply chain solutions can help with this, and the rest of the time, the motto is to keep a cool head and persevere. This demonstrates the resilience of companies, with almost two thirds (58%) feeling more positive about their company’s economic situation today than they did at the same time last year.”
Pictures: Adobe Stock
