The dislocation and economic reshuffle changing our lives and country
How the global supply of people and goods is dramatically reshaping the nation
Just below the surface, under the noise of COVID-19, is a global supply crisis. If things continue the way they are, with locked borders, locally-focused production, and a shutdown mentality then the world will be a dramatically different place. Driving the change are growing shortages in people, goods and materials like semi-conductors (computer chips), shipping containers, copper, wood pulp, coffee, truck drivers, farm workers and hospitality workers.
Politicians and businesses are praying that the consumer revival brings demand and supply back online. The reality is, everything takes time and their dreams of a V shape recovery and a return to ‘normal’ may not be possible. Not only could demand way outpace supply, but the lockdown psyche is preventing supply chains from even opening up. Inflation is almost a certainty, but there is hope that these supply challenges could be positive in the long term.
Our reliance on the cheap labour of developing nations has often meant the true cost of goods isn’t reflected in the price, that jobs have gone offshore rather than staying at home, and that consumerism has replaced values. The closed borders and…
