Food and Beverage: What to expect in US-MX trade for the rest of 2023?

In today's fast-paced and ever-evolving business landscape, the logistics industry plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth operations and efficient supply chains. As we look to the second half of 2023, it becomes important to stay ahead of the curve by keeping up with the latest trends and innovations shaping cross-border logistics operations. Figures for Q1 2023 show that US-MX trade is on the rise, reaching US $196.7 billion in imports and exports, an 8% increase over the same period in 2022. This is just the tip of the iceberg, so let’s explore the emerging logistics trends in the Food and Beverage Industry, especially around US-MX freight.

The logistics landscape in the Food and Beverage industry is undergoing a remarkable transformation, fueled by changing consumer behavior and market innovations. From nearshoring to artificial intelligence, the market is ripe for disruption. These are our top predictions for the rest of the year that we are sure will continue to impact the Food and Beverage industry.

1. Reshoring and nearshoring for manufacturers

Reshoring and nearshoring have increased over the past decade, mostly due to ongoing tension between the US and China, significant increases in shipping costs from China, the effects of the pandemic on global supply chains, and sustainability concerns. According to a Thomas Survey in April 2020, 64% of North American manufacturers interviewed said they were likely to bring manufacturing production back to the Americas. Many multinational Food and Beverage companies have either relocated from Asia to Mexico or expanded their presence in the country to lower transit times and reduce risk around potential challenges. For the Food and Beverage industry, Mexico’s strategic location, closer to end users, is key in reducing complex and extensive supply chains that involve multiple suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. Managing and coordinating these interconnected networks can be challenging, especially when it comes to maintaining visibility, collaboration, and efficient communication across the entire supply chain. Mexico’s proximity, social and cultural similarities, and beneficial trade agreements offer an opportunity to reduce some of these complexities.

2. AI and Automation

Technology and automation in logistics operations have become very important to address pain points in the industry and manage shipments at lower costs and in a timely manner. According to the McKinsey Global Institute, the transportation and warehousing industry has the third-highest automation potential of any sector. AI, machine learning, computer vision, connected IoT networks, and blockchain can all be applied to simplify logistics operations, make them more efficient, and optimize resources. For that, the rise of automation is expected to keep trending in 2023. The Food and Beverage industry is increasingly adopting digital technologies to optimize its supply chain operations. This includes the use of advanced analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and Internet of Things (IoT) devices to gather and analyze data, improve inventory management, enhance demand forecasting, and streamline distribution processes.

3. Digital and Cloud for greater profits

Businesses are embracing technology such as the Internet of Things (IoT) to increase yield. Because perishability is a major concern in the sector, these newer digital technologies can help cut operational costs and boost yield. Smarter sales forecasting approaches are helping companies make their supply chains more effective and responsive, and smart forecasting combined with cloud technologies is helping to reduce IT-related costs.

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4. Increase in Online Grocery and E-Retail

Online grocery and e-retail are propelling food logistics sectors. The majority of big e-commerce corporations have entered this industry, and the COVID-19 outbreak has accelerated its growth. Some players from emerging nations, as well as food delivery companies such as Blinkit, have entered this sector; nonetheless, the bulk of these players operate in the ambient market, with only a few entering the cold chain.

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By staying abreast of the latest developments and actively embracing these changes, companies operating within the Food and Beverage industry can position themselves as leaders and gain a competitive edge. 

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We would love to hear from you! Feel free to share your thoughts, experiences, or any additional trends you believe are shaping the logistics industry. If you want a strategic partner to help you navigate this changing landscape, get in touch.