New Study Reveals Why 86% of Companies Can't Prove Supply Chain Safety

Jan de Vries · 2026-09-18

A new study just dropped, and it's a bit of a wake-up call. Only 14% of companies can actually show that their responsible sourcing programs are reducing risks or improving outcomes. That means a whopping 86% are basically flying blind when it comes to supply chain safeguards. You might be thinking, "Okay, but my company has a sourcing policy. We're good, right?" Not so fast. Having a policy is one thing. Proving it works is a whole different ballgame. ### The Gap Between Policy and Proof So why is it so hard to demonstrate impact? For starters, supply chains are incredibly complex. They stretch across continents, involve dozens of suppliers, and often lack transparency beyond the first tier. By the time you factor in subcontractors and raw material providers, the web gets tangled fast. Then there's the data problem. Many companies simply don't have the systems in place to track social and environmental metrics consistently. They might collect some data, but it's scattered across departments or buried in spreadsheets. Without a unified view, it's nearly impossible to spot trends or measure progress. And let's not forget about the cost. Implementing robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks takes time, money, and expertise. For smaller firms, that can feel like a luxury they can't afford. ### What the 14% Are Doing Differently The companies that can prove their programs work aren't necessarily bigger or richer. They just approach things differently. Here are a few common threads: - **They set clear, measurable goals.** Instead of vague promises like "improve working conditions," they define specific targets—like reducing overtime hours by 20% or ensuring 100% of suppliers meet safety standards. - **They invest in technology.** From blockchain to satellite monitoring, these firms use tools to get real-time visibility into their supply chains. - **They collaborate.** They work with NGOs, industry groups, and even competitors to share best practices and pool resources. - **They communicate openly.** They publish regular reports and admit when they fall short, which builds trust with stakeholders. ### Why This Matters for Your Business If you're in procurement or supply chain management, this study is a nudge to step up your game. Consumers, investors, and regulators are all paying closer attention to how companies source their products. A scandal can damage your reputation overnight—and the fallout can be expensive. Plus, there's a growing body of evidence that responsible sourcing actually pays off. It can reduce disruption risks, improve supplier relationships, and even boost your bottom line. But you'll never know if you don't measure it. ### The Road Ahead The good news is that awareness is growing. More companies are recognizing the need for better supply chain safeguards. But awareness alone isn't enough. We need action, and we need proof. As one expert put it, "You can't manage what you don't measure." So if you're part of the 86%, now's the time to start building a system that works. Your future self—and your stakeholders—will thank you. What's your take? Is your company ahead of the curve or still catching up? The numbers suggest there's plenty of room for improvement.