REFERENCE MATERIAL

Reshoring and additive manufacturing

Type: 
research paper
Authors: 
Moradlou H.; Tate W.
Year: 
2018
Country (if relevant): 
United Kingdom
Volume number and page: 
Vol.7 No.3, pp. 241 - 263
Journal or media source: 
World Review of Intermodal Transportation Research
Complete reference: 
Moradlou H.; Tate W. (2018) Reshoring and additive manufacturing World Review of Intermodal Transportation Research Vol.7 No.3, pp. 241 - 263
DOI: 
10.1504/WRITR.2018.093564
Abstract: 

The paper focuses on operational challenges faced by reshoring companies; more specifically, it investigates whether AM (additive manufacturing) technologies may act as enabler factor for reshoring strategies. Data were collected through a questionnaire sent to 50 UK manufacturing companies who utilize AM technologies in their supply chain. Findings show that responsiveness is the main factor behind reshoring manufacturing to the UK; moreover, AM technologies can help manufacturers to reshore enhancing responsiveness to product and market changes, introducing customization options, and reducing lead time and transportation costs.

Keywords: 
Additive manufacturing
Industry 4.0
Reshoring