Supply Chain Strategies: Quick Adjustments Amidst Ongoing Disruption Revealed in Survey

Supply Chains on the Defense: Insights from West Monroe's Quarterly Poll

In the latest results published from West Monroe's Quarterly Supply Chain Poll, a notable trend has emerged: U.S.-based executives are primarily focused on making swift, short-term adjustments to their supply chains rather than undertaking significant reinventions. The survey, conducted from June 11 to 15, 2025, sheds light on how industry leaders are navigating a landscape characterized by fluctuating trade policies and rising operational costs.

The poll involved 250 senior leaders from various sectors including manufacturing, retail, and distribution, all representing companies with annual revenues of at least $500 million. A significant finding reveals that the pressure from tariffs has overtaken concerns about cybersecurity, taking center stage as the most pressing issue for these executives. Respondents reported that the impact of tariffs surged 12 points from the previous quarter, indicating a heightened urgency in addressing trade-related challenges.

According to Jeremy Tancredi, a partner in West Monroe's supply chain practice and co-author of the poll, most companies are resorting to surface-level defensive measures as they respond to these pressures. Nearly 56% of respondents have adjusted their product and sourcing mix, while 50% have altered their transportation arrangements. However, these changes are typically temporary; they are designed to be easily reversible should trade policies shift again—a challenge that seems increasingly likely.

This dynamic, which Tancredi has termed the “tariff tap dance,” signifies a broader tendency among leaders to avoid structural changes unless absolutely necessary. Instead, they are making operational adjustments that can be undone, reflecting a cautious approach to a volatile market landscape. For instance, only 35% of executives reported passing increased costs onto customers, while a mere 25% considered altering their geographic presence in response to external pressures.

Interestingly, the quest for supplier diversification has gained momentum, indicating that leaders are beginning to recognize the importance of optionality in their supply chains. The percentage of respondents prioritizing this approach has nearly doubled to 14%, highlighting an urgent need for strategies that mitigate risks associated with over-reliance on specific suppliers. Cost containment remains a top priority among 20% of leaders, aligned closely with inventory management efforts.

Another noteworthy insight from the survey indicates that companies are operating in a reactive manner, with almost half (46%) acknowledging they make adjustments within just one week of a policy shift. Furthermore, 17% of respondents can adapt their supply chain strategies even within 48 hours. Yet, these rapid alterations are mostly superficial, lacking the depth required for long-term sustainability. Brian Pacula, another partner in West Monroe's supply chain practice, emphasized that ongoing adjustments are motivated by a need to preserve margins amid unpredictable sourcing and logistics demands.

Overall, the findings of this quarterly poll reveal a pattern in which leaders are optimizing their operations in a tactical manner rather than committing to comprehensive changes. With lingering uncertainties around trade policies, it is evident that industry executives are prioritizing immediate flexibility over long-term strategic shifts. The path forward for businesses seems to involve a delicate balance of preserving operational efficiencies while remaining alert to a fast-changing market environment.

The complete results from the Q2 2025 Supply Chain Poll can be accessed here. West Monroe continues to support the manufacturing and supply chain sectors with their expertise, helping organizations develop agile operations that are not only resilient to disruptions but also poised for growth in the future.

For further information on West Monroe's initiatives and insights, visit their website at westmonroe.com.