After years of unprecedented disruption, the global supply chain is still evolving. Port congestion, geopolitical shifts, trade policy changes, and climate events continue to affect material availability, lead times, and pricing — particularly in the building materials industry.
While some stability has returned in 2025, experts agree that disruption is no longer the exception — it’s part of the new normal. That means distributors and manufacturers must shift from reactive to proactive strategies, building supply chains that are resilient, regionalized, and responsive.
Here’s a roundup of expert predictions on where global sourcing and supply chain challenges are heading next, and how industry players should prepare.
1. Disruptions Will Become More Frequent — and More Localized
While major global bottlenecks like the 2021 container crisis have eased, supply chain volatility hasn’t gone away — it’s just changing shape. Experts predict more regional disruptions, from natural disasters and extreme weather to localized labor disputes and infrastructure failures.
What to Expect:
Rolling delays based on regional instability
Greater unpredictability in shipping routes and costs
Need for multiple contingency plans — not just one
Expert Insight:
“Every link in your supply chain must now be evaluated for vulnerability and agility. Regional backup options will become standard.” — Logistics analyst, IHS Markit
2. Nearshoring and Regional Sourcing Will Accelerate
Global sourcing models are being rebalanced as companies seek to reduce exposure to overseas volatility. Expect more procurement from domestic and nearshore suppliers in North America, Latin America, and within regional trade zones.
What to Expect:
Shorter supply chains prioritized for high-risk SKUs
Rise in demand for local manufacturing partners
Regional distribution hubs gaining more importance
Expert Insight:
“Expect a 20–30% shift toward regional sourcing in construction materials by 2026 — especially for time-sensitive categories.” — Supply Chain Strategist, Gartner
3. Risk Management Will Become Core to Procurement Strategy
Procurement is no longer just about cost. Risk mitigation — including supplier diversification, lead time planning, and geopolitical risk monitoring — is now a primary driver of sourcing decisions.
What to Expect:
Increased use of risk scoring models for vendors
Supply chain continuity planning built into purchasing
Long-term contracts replacing opportunistic buys
Expert Insight:
“The most successful procurement teams will be those that measure and manage risk as carefully as they manage price.” — VP of Operations, Global Building Supplier
4. Technology Will Be Central to Visibility and Response
Experts predict major investment in supply chain tech — especially in platforms that offer real-time inventory, shipping status, and predictive disruption alerts.
What to Expect:
AI-powered demand forecasting and routing
Digital twin modeling for scenario planning
Growth of control towers and multi-tier supplier visibility
Expert Insight:
“Supply chains without visibility are blind. Technology will be the biggest differentiator in the next wave of disruption.” — Director, McKinsey & Company
5. Sustainability Requirements Will Add Complexity to Global Sourcing
Governments and developers are increasing pressure to reduce emissions and improve material traceability. This will impact how and where materials are sourced — and may limit some overseas options.
What to Expect:
More scrutiny on embedded carbon and shipping emissions
Regulatory limits on sourcing from high-pollution regions
Demand for traceable, compliant materials
Expert Insight:
“Global sourcing must now balance cost, availability, and environmental impact. The carbon footprint of logistics is under the microscope.” — ESG Consultant, Built Environment Council
6. Supplier Consolidation Will Impact Access and Leverage
Ongoing M&A activity and supplier consolidation will reduce sourcing flexibility — especially for distributors who rely heavily on a few global vendors.
What to Expect:
Fewer vendor options in some product categories
More aggressive allocation and minimum order policies
Need for stronger relationships with secondary and regional suppliers
Expert Insight:
“Consolidation is giving large suppliers more power. Distributors will need to negotiate smarter and diversify faster.” — Global Sourcing Advisor, Deloitte
7. Port and Trade Route Disruptions Will Remain a Wild Card
Geopolitical instability — including labor strikes, shipping route conflicts, and infrastructure constraints — will continue to cause unexpected delays in global freight.
What to Expect:
More congestion in chokepoints like the Panama and Suez Canals
Temporary blackouts on container availability
Greater use of air freight for urgent construction materials
Expert Insight:
“Build in 10–15% more time for overseas shipments as a buffer — especially during seasonal peaks or election cycles.” — Senior Transportation Analyst, Maersk Logistics
Conclusion
The future of global sourcing isn’t about eliminating disruption — it’s about building supply chains that can flex, adapt, and recover quickly. From nearshoring and digital visibility to smarter procurement and stronger vendor partnerships, distributors who evolve now will be positioned to lead.
The challenge is real — but so is the opportunity to build a smarter, more resilient supply chain.
