15 examples of supply chain disruptions throughout history

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused disruptions across the global supply chain. Here's a look at other disruptions that underscore why boosting resiliency has always been important.

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Did you know that 2020 wasn't the first time consumers experienced a toilet paper shortage?

Indeed, consumers have panic-bought toilet paper and gutted shelves before. One example of this happened in 1973 when The Tonight Show host Johnny Carson made a joke that it was running out.

In other words, COVID-19 has put a spotlight on supply chain disruption, but disruption is not a new phenomenon.

Thanks to unforeseen supply insufficiencies, natural disasters, civil unrest and even traffic jams, the potential for supply chain disruption is a fact of life. That's why smart companies put a focus on being proactive, creating business continuity plans and learning from past mistakes.

Studying past disruptions can provide lessons on how to boost supply chain resiliency going forward.