The State of the Recruiting Industry 2025

Key Trends Shaping Supply Chain Hiring

Supply chain management continues to evolve rapidly, influenced by economic shifts, technological advancements, and global disruptions. Organizations are facing increased pressure to optimize efficiency while navigating challenges such as workforce shortages, rising costs, and geopolitical instability. As we move into 2025, four major factors are shifting the state of supply chain hiring and operations: cost-to-serve, artificial intelligence, skilled workforce shortages, and risk management.  

Cost-to-serve 

Cost-to-serve refers to the total cost associated with delivering a product or service to a customer. Over the years, businesses have worked to decrease cost-to-serve through process improvements and technology. However, recent economic and geopolitical factors are reversing that trend. Inflation, raw material price fluctuations, and global trade disruptions are significantly impacting supply chain expenses.  

To counteract these challenges, organizations are focusing on optimizing logistics, improving supplier collaboration, and implementing automation to reduce inefficiencies. Additionally, evolving geopolitical policies in 2025 are leading to shifts in global trade, prompting companies to reassess supplier networks and sourcing strategies.  

Artificial intelligence 

AI and machine learning continue to transform supply chain management, particularly in warehousing, logistics, and demand forecasting. According to Market.US, in 2024, AI-driven solutions increased supply chain efficiency by 22%, while early adopters reported 15% decrease in operational costs. With AI adoption expected to grow at an annual rate of 42.7% from 2024 to 2033, companies are accelerating investments in smart automation.  

However, this rapid advancement also brings workforce implications. As AI takes over repetitive and analytical tasks, companies need professionals with AI expertise, data analytics skills, and the ability to integrate AI-driven solutions effectively into supply chain operations.  

Shortage of skilled workforce 

The supply chain industry continues to grapple with a significant talent gap. A staggering 76% of supply chain operations report notable workforce shortages, with 61% considering them extreme (Descartes). The Bureau of Labor Statistics also projects rapid expansion in the logistics sector, intensifying the need for qualified professionals.  

To address this challenge, over 50% of companies are focusing on reskilling existing employees to meet evolving skill requirements (Supply Chain Management Review). Industry leaders are prioritizing investments in training programs, apprenticeship models, and strategic hiring efforts to close the talent gap and build a more resilient workforce.  

Risk management 

Geopolitical shifts, natural disasters, transportation disruptions, and raw material shortages are making supply chain risk management more critical than ever. In fact, 68% of supply chain professionals anticipate an increase in disruptions throughout 2025 (Supply & Demand Chain Executive)  

Industries most vulnerable to these risks include consumer packaged goods (CPG), energy, technology, and aerospace. Companies are responding by diversifying supplier networks, increasing inventory buffers, and leveraging predictive analytics to proactively identify and mitigate risks before they escalate.  

The supply chain landscape in 2025 is defined by rapid technological advancements, cost pressures, labor shortages, and an increasingly complex risk environment. Companies that invest in AI, workforce development, and strategic risk management will be best positioned to navigate these challenges and build resilient, high-performing supply chains. As organizations continue to adapt, hiring strategies must evolve to attract and retain top talent capable of driving innovation and operational excellence, which is why it is critical to partner with a recruiting expert who understands your industry.