The UK–India trade deal isn more than just about tariffs and has a potential to be transformational.
India is no longer just a low-cost sourcing hub. It’s a strategic manufacturing base, a rising consumer market, and a partner in supply chain resilience. For UK retailers, this deal is a chance to diversify beyond China, build ESG-aligned sourcing models, and serve both Indian and diaspora communities with authenticity. But it won’t work with old playbooks. This moment calls for new procurement structures, real partnerships, and a rethink of how value chains are designed. Those who treat it as a cost-saving shortcut will miss the point, and the upside.

Supply chain leaders don’t lack ambition. They lack execution capacity. That’s the gap we built Waterfront Ventures to close.

Waterfront isn’t a consultancy. It’s a supply chain decarbonisation partner focused on four levers that drive real change: optimisation, circularity, product design, and infrastructure.

In an era marked by unprecedented disruptions, from pandemics to geopolitical upheavals, retailers must proactively prepare for unforeseen "black swan" events. We outline five critical strategies to enhance resilience and adaptability.

While free returns are crucial for customer satisfaction, they significantly impact profitability and sustainability. Retailers must balance customer expectations with cost management and environmental concerns.

We present five steps to enhance resilience and to prepare businesses for future disruptions by fostering adaptability and proactive planning.