The pandemic continues to cause business interruption issues, bringing about supply chain challenges across the board. Semi-conductor shortages, data and cyber security issues and continued apprehension around the safety, quality and transparency of goods and labelling are among the widespread, ongoing risks, according Sedgwick’s latest European product recall index.

Chemicals, contaminants and counterfeiting remained issues in both the food and non-food sectors, according to the data, published today.

In food and pharmaceuticals, meanwhile, recalls seemed to be gradually returning to post COVID-19 levels.

Looking at H1 2021 as a whole, the same trend can be observed for medical devices, as recalls are at 2% under 2019 – Q1 edged above pre-pandemic averages by 1.5% whereas Q2 dipped by 7%.

In consumer goods (including clothing, electronics and toys), the index reflects mixed trends. Recalls for both electronics and clothing were still running considerably higher in Q2 than before the pandemic, at respectively +47% and +6%. This indicates that we still have a long way to go before some of the issues of the past year recede. However, recalls for toys have decreased compared with pre-pandemic levels by 40%.

Commenting on the findings of the quarterly report, Luke Evans, recall consultant in Sedgwick’s international brand protection division, said: “Given how quickly business and regulatory environments are evolving, these businesses will have to rely more on expert partners. With the right data, planning and support they can help uphold commitments to customers, compliance and supply chain partners, while protecting reputations among the stakeholders that matter most.”


Image courtesy: Port of Dover

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