Olympics Could Delay Fall Shipments
By BRENNER THOMAS
June 23, 2008
NEW YORK — Rumors of road closures, forced factory shutdowns, maxed-out seaports and increased scrutiny at Customs before, during and after the Summer Olympics in Beijing has the logistics world buzzing and more than a few apparel vendors wondering whether they should take fall shipments early to ensure on-time delivery.
“We have definitely heard the rumors,” said Elliott Singer, managing director of imports and production for the Weatherproof Garment Co. “We’re watching it.”
As Beijing works to improve the quality of the region’s air before the August Games, many in the supply-chain world have speculated on what steps the Chinese government will take and how the measures will impact manufacturing and shipping, especially within the apparel industry, which moves the bulk of its fall goods during the summer when potential delays could be greatest. |