Paper and packaging industry dynamics during COVID-19 and their strategies for the future

Amulya  Gurtu; Jestin Johny; Oliver Buechse

doi:10.5937/StraMan2200017G

Authors

Amulya Gurtu University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Cofrin School of Business, Green Bay, WI, USA
Jestin Johny N.L. Dalmia Institute of Management Studies and Research, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Oliver Buechse University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Cofrin School of Business, Green Bay, WI, USA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5937/StraMan2200017G

Keywords:

COVID-19, Pandemic, Toilet Paper, Bath Tissue, Facial Tissue, Paper Towel

Abstract

Background: The paper examined the “mysterious case of the disappearing toilet paper” during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Purpose: This paper describes strategic impacts on paper and packaging supply chains due to the pandemic through a qualitative discussions with the organization leaders.

Finding/conclusions: Several “behind the scenes” and less well-documented supply chain impacts in the Paper and Packaging, and Logistics Industries were discovered. The critical effects observed are: (1) impact on the manufacturing side were mitigated mainly by implementing CDC guidelines and by a willingness of industry leaders to go above and beyond to shield their employees from economic hardships. (2) The transportation sector has experienced a more severe workforce shortage, amplified by government actions before and during the pandemic. (3) Product specialization, a pre-pandemic strategy for industry participants, turned into a weakness during the pandemic due to unprecedented shifts in demand across sectors. (4) Traditional “lean” supply chain thinking is increasingly making way to a more interconnected “risk avoidance” strategic model.

Limitations/future research: The research is limited to organizations in Midwest U.S.A. and one organization in Europe.