October 2018 Supply Chain Trends: Insights for B2B Buyers

As an industrial supplier, you are always looking for ways to connect with B2B buyers. But what are those buyers looking for?

We regularly analyze the petabytes of buyer behavior data generated every day on the Thomas Network at Thomasnet.com. Here's an inside look at the biggest changes in supply chain sourcing and buyer behavior over the past month. 

Retail & Reshoring Driving Demand For Cut & Sew Contract Manufacturing

For decades, the apparel industry has performed their manufacturing work overseas. However, recently the industry began bringing that work back to American soil in search of improved lead times, enhanced quality control, and greater flexibility. As a result, sourcing activity for Cut & Sew Contract Manufacturing is up 28% compared to its historical average. 

Booming Healthcare Industry Causes Surge In Medical Equipment Demand 

Thanks to an aging population, healthcare expenditures are expected to reach $3.79 trillion by the end of this year. In order to keep up with the influx of patients, companies are investing heavily in Medical Equipment & Supplies. Our data shows that sourcing in this category is up 11% over its historical average. 

Industry 4.0 Fueling The Need For Sensors

With digitally connected devices and innovative technologies, Industry 4.0 is making manufacturing more efficient than ever before. It's no surprise, then, that demand for Sensors — which actually makes all that connectivity possible — is on the rise, up 19% over its historical average. 

What About Your Products & Services?

Keeping up with the products and services that are trending in the supply chain is simple; just follow the Thomas Index. 

Identifying buyers that are specifically interested in what you offer? That's pretty easy as well. Get your personalized In-Market Buyer Report to find out which companies are looking for you on the Thomas Network right now.