For the past decade, manufacturing construction and the evolution of supply chains has undergone significant shifts. One trend that has emerged since the pandemic is the “reshoring renaissance”, a movement where companies are bringing their manufacturing, industrial and supply chain operations back to the United States. This means businesses are grappling with the intricacy of their supply chains, which leads to investments in new facilities, labor and operations personnel.

There has been a shift in the way manufacturing and industrial facilities are operated. In the past, they mainly involved high-volume, repetitive tasks in smaller environments. The new focus is on producing high-variability, mass customized products with short shelf lives and new technologies like advanced robotics, AI and other forms of automation that are needed for these modern facilities. Automation systems are significant investments for businesses, and choosing the right partner is crucial to managing the risk of costly mistakes or system failures due to poor installation. At Alston, we have a dedicated team called a+ Automation Integration Management (AIM) that facilitates the installation process, proactively resolves issues and instills confidence in the successful implementation and long-term performance of the supply and inventory automation system. This full service automation team provides four main services to manage the material handling and automation systems installation process:

1. Safety – The integration of cutting-edge technology and robotics can greatly enhance productivity and efficiency, but it also introduces new potential hazards. Therefore, careful planning and implementation of safety measures are essential. We establish a site specific safety plan and provide onsite management of safety.

2. Project Management & Operations – The a+ team provides owners all the necessary project management processes and implementation to make a project a success. From estimates and schedules to punchlist management and supervision, the team understands the intricate needs of an automation system installation.

3. Quality Assurance – From conveyor belts to robotic pickers, each element must function reliably to minimize errors and maintain product integrity. Rigorous testing and inspections are necessary to identify any potential defects or performance issues before they impact daily operations. We ensure projects align with specifications to meet commissioning requirements, track issues, assign responsibility, and resolve non-compliance promptly.

4. Supply Chain/Inventory Management – Our team provides supply chain/inventory management utilizing three methods:

a. Minimize waste, reduce storage, enhance control, improve labor efficiency & cut costs through just-in-time inventory management

b. Build and foster relationships with key suppliers to speed up material deliveries and meet deadlines, and

c. Continuous improvement by using project history and data to find process enhancements

The “Reshoring Renaissance” contributes to increased investment in infrastructure, and the creation of a team of experts who can help run the logistics of these new and upgraded facilities. When businesses invest in local industrial growth, they often engage with local suppliers fostering more growth and a resilient local economy. Experts are reporting that reshoring will continue to expand in 2025, with experts saying the technology, automotive and pharmaceutical sectors likely at the forefront of the reshoring efforts.