With Edition 10, we’ve officially hit double digits! Every fortnight, The Brief brings you bite-sized updates from the supply chain and logistics sectors to keep you in the know while you’re on the go.

If the last fortnight proves anything, it’s that supply chains are always a moving target. The labour market shifts one way, while logistics hiring pulls another. AI pilots raise expectations in last-mile delivery, tariff talks are stirring questions over input costs, and developers are still betting on warehousing growth.

Labour market cools but logistics hiring holds firm

The latest ONS data shows the UK labour market is cooling, with vacancies falling and wage growth slowing across many sectors. Yet, logistics, warehousing and transport remain in demand, with roles such as HGV drivers, warehouse supervisors and planners still being prioritised. This means competition for high-impact talent is still fierce, even as overall recruitment activity slows.

What this means for you:

Even with a softer market overall, logistics and supply chain roles remain specialist and competitive. This creates a chance to access a broader pool of applicants, but employers will still need to move quickly to secure the right skills. Partnering with a specialist recruitment agency can help you cut through the noise, ensuring reaching passive talent while also positioning your business to hire smarter, not just faster.

IKEA's parent (Ingka Group) acquires AI logistics firm Locus

Ingka Group, the owner of most IKEA stores, has acquired U.S. logistics technology firm Locus, known for its AI-powered route optimisation and delivery management. The deal reflects a clear push to take more control over last-mile efficiency as online sales grow. Notably, the technology will be trialled in both the U.S. and U.K. before rolling out more widely, making these markets the testing ground for IKEA’s next phase of logistics innovation

What this means for you:

AI-driven route optimisation and last-mile delivery management are moving towards being embedded into operations now with the U.K. set to be one of the first trial markets within this acquisition. This creates an opportunity to watch how these tools shape cost, efficiency and customer expectations at scale. Whether you’re a retailer, manufacturer or 3PL, it’s a reminder to explore how AI can fit into your own supply chain roadmap, even at a pilot stage.

Government "in discussions" with EU over proposed steel tariff hike

The European Commission has proposed cutting tariff-free steel import quotas and adding a 50% levy on volumes above those caps. With around 80% of UK steel exports heading to the EU, this would mark a significant change. The UK government has confirmed it is in talks with Brussels, seeking to ensure domestic manufacturers aren’t disproportionately affected.

What this means for you:

For businesses reliant on steel, tariff shifts can quickly filter down into costs and supply availability. While the details are still being negotiated, it’s worth stress-testing your supply chain assumptions: looking at sourcing options, potential pricing impacts, and the knock-on effect on project timelines. Even if changes don’t materialise, being prepared gives you greater agility when policies move.

Cyberattacks rise across global supply chains

A new CIPS survey shows that almost a third of business leaders have seen a rise in cyberattacks on their supply chains in the last six months. High-profile breaches, such as the disruption at Jaguar Land Rover, have highlighted how vulnerabilities in supplier networks can spread quickly. It’s a reminder that protecting your digital systems is now just as critical as keeping goods moving in today’s supply chains

What this means for you:

Cybersecurity is now a supply chain issue as much as an IT one. While the headlines can feel daunting, the practical step is to treat resilience as part of your day-to-day planning. Look at setting up clear supplier standards and running regular scenario checks. It’s not about eliminating all risk but ensuring you’re well-placed to recover quickly if a disruption does occur.

New 655,000 ft² logistics hub gets green light in Staffordshire

Indurent has secured a resolution to grant planning permission for a 655,000 ft² logistics development in South Staffordshire, close to the M6. Part of an £800 million local investment programme, the scheme will be built in phases and is expected to deliver almost 900 jobs. With sustainability standards built in, the project reinforces the Midlands’ role as a prime distribution hub and adds long-term capacity to a growing logistics market.

What this means for you:

New large-scale warehousing developments highlight ongoing demand for regional distribution hubs in the UK. For occupiers, it signals fresh opportunities to secure capacity in a highly connected region. For business leaders, it’s also a reminder to think ahead: aligning property decisions with workforce strategy ensures you have the people in place when new sites come online.

Insights for supply chain leaders

Each of these stories highlights a different piece of the puzzle supply chain leaders are dealing with today. Labour market changes show us the importance of targeted hiring strategies. Technology investments by major players underline how innovation is moving from theory into practice. Trade negotiations, cyber risks, and new infrastructure developments all serve as reminders that resilience isn’t built on one decision; it’s the sum of many.

At its core, this is about people as much as processes. Having the right talent, in the right place, at the right time, remains the key to turning challenges into opportunities. That’s where a specialist partner can help you see the bigger picture and move with confidence.

We’ll be back in two weeks with The Brief. Until then, feel free to share this with your team or reach out if there’s something you’d like us to cover next.

Till next time,

The MVP Talent & Recruitment Solutions Team

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