Atlas Network CEO Offers Advice on How to Navigate Supply Chain Disruptions

If you could create your own fantasy board of directors, who would be on it? CO— connects you with thought leaders from across the business spectrum and asks them to help solve your biggest business challenges. In this edition, we ask a supply chain expert for his advice.

In this edition of “Ask the Board,” we feature Kerim Kfuri, President and CEO of The Atlas Network LLC, which helps small businesses build resilient supply chain programs.

In today’s interconnected economy, supply chain success is no longer reserved for global corporations. Small businesses that remain agile, informed, and relationship-driven can compete effectively, even during uncertain times, with a resilient supply chain. 

Modern supply chains are no longer linear systems. They’re dynamic socioeconomic networks that require agility, visibility, and leadership. Small businesses that embrace adaptability, process discipline, and strategic thinking can transform supply chain disruption from a threat into a competitive advantage.

Here are six practical tips for small businesses navigating today’s supply chain disruptions.

Build relationships before you need them

Strong supplier relationships are a competitive advantage. Businesses that communicate consistently with vendors, freight partners, and distributors are often the first to receive support during shortages or delays.

Trust and transparency create stability when markets become unpredictable. During periods of tariff pressure, partnerships become critical. Suppliers, freight providers, customs brokers, and customers all become part of the solution. Companies that communicate transparently about pricing changes, delays, and sourcing adjustments preserve trust and long-term stability even during difficult economic conditions.

Diversify your supplier network

Relying on a single supplier or region creates unnecessary risk. Small businesses should develop secondary sourcing options, even if they are not used immediately. A diversified supply chain reduces vulnerability to geopolitical disruptions, shipping delays, or raw material shortages.

Tariffs often expose overdependence on one country or trade lane. Small businesses should diversify sourcing across multiple regions whenever possible. Even maintaining backup suppliers domestically or in alternative countries can reduce exposure to sudden import duties and geopolitical tensions.

Focus on visibility, not just inventory

Many companies believe that more inventory solves every problem. In reality, visibility is more valuable than volume. Understanding where products are, how long transit times are taking, and where bottlenecks exist allows businesses to make faster and smarter decisions.

Also, supply chains are deeply connected to global economics, labor markets, politics, and consumer behavior. Small businesses should monitor trade policy, inflation trends, and international relations because tariffs rarely affect only one product — they ripple through transportation costs, raw materials, and pricing structures across entire industries.

Stay financially flexible

Cash flow is the lifeblood of small business operations. Maintaining flexible payment terms, monitoring transportation costs, and avoiding overcommitting to excess inventory can help companies survive periods of volatility. Strategic financial discipline creates operational endurance.

Businesses should establish repeatable systems for forecasting, inventory planning, supplier communication, and cost analysis. When tariffs increase landed costs unexpectedly, disciplined operational processes allow companies to react strategically rather than emotionally.

Invest in process and communication

One of the recurring lessons in my book “Supply Chain Ups and Downs” is that process creates consistency. Small businesses should establish clear procurement procedures, forecasting routines, and communication channels internally and externally. Organized operations reduce panic during disruption.

One of my core philosophies is that adaptability outperforms rigid efficiency during uncertain times. Businesses that can quickly pivot suppliers, modify sourcing regions, or restructure logistics routes are more resilient than those dependent on a single fixed model. Tariffs can change overnight; operational flexibility must already exist before disruption occurs.

Turn challenges into innovation opportunities

Disruption often forces creativity. Businesses that adapt packaging, sourcing strategies, delivery models, or customer communication methods frequently emerge stronger than competitors who resist change.

Supply chain adversity can become a catalyst for innovation and growth. For example, rather than viewing tariffs only as obstacles, my approach is to encourage businesses to use disruption as an opportunity to innovate.

Companies may discover more efficient sourcing methods, regional manufacturing options, automation opportunities, or improved forecasting capabilities that ultimately strengthen the organization long term.

CO— aims to bring you inspiration from leading respected experts. However, before making any business decision, you should consult a professional who can advise you based on your individual situation.

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