Business, Freight News, Logistics

Builders could down tools over Corona Virus

[ February 25, 2020   //   Chris ]

The Corona Virus is having some unexpected results, says Richard Wilding, Professor of Supply Chain Strategy at Cranfield University, including problems in the UK building industry.

As growing shortages of surgical masks consumers are reported to be turning to hardware suppliers for face masks and body suits – which in turn means that building workers are now struggling to get hold of this equipment. With workers unable to access building sites under health and safety rules, there is a danger that construction work in Europe could grind to a half, he says.

Meanwhile, he continues the virus has struck the Northern Italy is an industrial heartland, a key manufacturing hub for textiles, steel and chemicals. With the news that Austria briefly stopped trains from Italy, smooth freight transport across Europe can now potentially become a risk factor, he adds.

Tags: Cranfield University