Why Multiple Sourcing Partners Are Critical to a Resilient Supply Chain
If the past few years have taught us anything, it’s this: supply chain security isn’t just a competitive advantage—it’s essential. For manufacturers and formulators in the lubricants, metalworking fluids, and grease industries, having multiple trusted sourcing partners is no longer a luxury. It’s a strategic imperative—and it goes well beyond simply avoiding shortages.
Disruptions Happen—Be Ready
Whether it’s COVID-19, hurricanes, or international conflict, global supply disruptions are no longer rare. During the pandemic, customers who diversified strengthened their supplier relationships with were able to pivot quickly and avoid costly production delays.
Our team has also taken a proactive approach in times of uncertainty. Before the recent wave of tariffs went into effect, Barentz built up additional inventory of key products—giving customers the runway to evaluate cost changes or transition formulations before market volatility hit their bottom line.
Capacity Assurance in Times of High Demand
When markets tighten, manufacturers with flexible sourcing relationships are the ones who keep moving. COVID underscored this in every industry. Whether you’re scaling production or responding to sudden demand shifts, having more than one supplier helps ensure continuity and protects delivery timelines.
Barentz partners were able to assure supply because of our ability to stock across multiple warehouse locations—from Massachusetts to Illinois, Texas to California, and everywhere in between. We were able to act fast when others are stalled.