Why are we seeing global shortages?

Empty shelves are becoming commonplace. And prices are rising. Charmaine Cozier explores the role that the pandemic, and a sudden demand explosion, have had on supply chains. Around the world workers are being slow to return to their jobs, the container shipping industry is struggling to get goods to their destinations and manufacturing disruptions are causing a reduction in vital components. And in addition to the pandemic, extreme weather events have resulted in ruined harvests. How long will it take for things to return to normal?

Contributors:
Jose Sette, International Coffee Organisation
Stacy Rasgon, Bernstein Research
Dr Nela Richardson, ADP
Professor Alan MacKinnon, Kuehne Logistics University

Presenter: Charmaine Cozier
Researcher: Chris Blake
Producer: Rosamund Jones

(Image: Empty supermarket shelves: REUTERS/Henry Nicholls)