The Effects of the Baltimore Bridge Collapse is Testing the Resilience of the Supply Chain

Designed Conveyor Systems Banner ad

 

As one of the busiest ports in the United States continues to grapple with the aftermath of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, the ripple effects on global supply chains are profound and widespread. The tragic incident not only disrupted local operations but has also spotlighted vulnerabilities in supply chain resilience globally. 

The bridge, which was pivotal for trade, may take a decade and billions to rebuild. In turn, this is posing some serious questions about the long-term economic impacts and other strategies for mitigation. While there has been some progress as the first cargo ship finally passed through the channel last week, along with efforts to reroute, that is a small dent compared to what the port normally sustained.

What strategies can industries employ to adapt and strengthen supply chain resilience in the face of such significant disruptions? Several experts shared their insights examining that.

On the latest segment of “Experts Talk,” host and the Voice of B2B, Daniel Litwin, engaged in a conversation about the Baltimore bridge collapse with Chris Timmer, CEO of Linnworks, Harrison Crabtree, Director at the World Trade Center New Orleans, and Dr. Piyush Shah, Assistant Professor of Supply Chain Management at Florida Gulf Coast University. They explored the immediate and long-term consequences of the collapse impacting global supply chains, strategic responses, and they analyzed the broader implications for trade and industry.

A few key points of their discussion:

  • The role of the Port of Baltimore in global logistics and the immediate impacts of its closure.
  • Strategies for mitigating risks and enhancing supply chain resilience in light of recent disruptions.
  • The future of global trade and logistics in an era marked by frequent, significant disruptions.

Chris Timmer is the CEO of Linnworks, a company specializing in inventory management solutions. He has a background in logistics and technology, leading initiatives that enhance efficiency and connectivity across global supply chains.

Harrison Crabtree serves as the Director of the World Trade Center New Orleans. His expertise in global trade and economic development has positioned him as a key player in regional and international logistics discussions.

Dr. Piyush Shah is an Assistant Professor of Supply Chain Management at Florida Gulf Coast University. His academic and professional work focuses on supply chain resilience, risk management, and the intersection of technology and logistics.

Article by Alexandra Simon.

Follow us on social media for the latest updates in B2B!

Image

Latest

How Branded Moving Trucks Help Storage Facilities Attract More Customers
August 1, 2025

You know that feeling when you see the same truck three times in a week? First at the grocery store, then outside your friend’s place, then stuck in traffic next to you. By the third sighting, that company name is burned into your brain. Smart storage facility owners figured this out years ago. They’re…

Read More
Winter is Coming: 9 Battle-Tested Strategies to Shield Your Commercial Property from Skyrocketing Insurance Costs
August 1, 2025

The numbers are brutal. Insurance deductibles that used to be a manageable $2,000 flat fee have morphed into percentage-based nightmares tied to property values. What was once a minor business expense can now hit six figures with a single burst pipe or ice dam incident. Meanwhile, insurance premiums have surged 20.4% on average, leaving property…

Read More
From Zero to 460% Engagement: 6 UGC Campaigns That Broke All the Rules
August 1, 2025

Picture this: You spend months crafting the perfect marketing campaign. Professional photographers, expensive equipment, polished copy. You launch it and… crickets. Meanwhile, your competitor posts a simple challenge asking customers to share their stories, and suddenly they’re swimming in engagement, leads, and brand loyalty. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. The biggest mistake brands make with…

Read More
Purpose Factory Event 2025
Lights, Camera, Action
August 1, 2025

The Purpose Factory Event 2025 emerges at a moment when organizations are being challenged to redefine what success really means. Beyond profits and projections, the gathering champions a model of growth that intertwines cultural impact with strategic vision. It’s a forum where companies explore how values can be engineered into operations, not just marketed in…

Read More