As we approach the end of the first half of 2021, the overall supply chain picture remains bleak. Now is not the time to expect things to get better. They’re not. Surging demand combined with plant breakage, tariffs, lack of truck drivers and equipment, cyber wars, war, winter storms, hurricanes, pipeline outages, canal blockage, etc. All of this continues to impact product availability and pricing. Inventories at all levels are at critically low levels, not by any plan or business decision, but by the whims of our broken global supply chain.
We’re on the cusp of summer, likely free of the COVID restrictions we’ve grown used to. It is already apparent that euphoric feelings of freedom and marked lower anxiety, is spreading among Americans. Demand across the board has already surged as we move into this next phase of a vaccinated America. Traveling has resumed and is mainly restricted to US States and Territories. The service sector, while recovering from almost zero, is having a tough time keeping up with the surge.
Yet, we watch as COVID continues to impact most of the rest of the world in a delayed fashion that can hardly be understood or explained. Variants and their ease of spread provide the current explanation for the invasive uptick, but COVID lockdown and protection fatigue are certainly part of this equation. We expect to have COVID impacts throughout the remainder of 2021 and beyond.
At TCC, 100% of our staff will return to work on May 17th. We have had at least half of our workforce working at our corporate campus throughout the pandemic, and those who were working from home worked harder than ever. We are proud of the accomplishments we have made during this very difficult year. Yet we know we are a better company together. We are not willing to risk anyone’s health, but today we feel very strongly that we can safely return to work.
The first half of 2021 will likely prove to be the strongest six months in TCC history in terms of volume and revenue. We worked very hard to build the systems for growth and forge the relationships that make us prosper. We have had our share of supply disruptions, but have often shifted very quickly to secure the supply chain for our loyal customers, and grown with new producing partners throughout the world. The difficulties of the past year+ have made us a better company.
We are now looking forward to once again meeting in person with many of you. Our relationships are our most important assets, and those are far better without Zoom, Teams, or conference calls. TCC will be a part of the upcoming trade shows and events this summer and fall. We hope to see you there.
I encourage you to take advantage of the investments TCC has made into our global supply partners, our logistics partners, and our people. We want to supply you safely, and with security and confidence in your supply chain. With multiple supply options for most of our major products, and a dedicated logistics team, we have the tools to help you manage through these unprecedented conditions.
Thank you for your continued support and business.
Regards,
Robb Roach, President
