The programming committee for the 79th Annual SAM International Business Conference is pleased to announce the acceptance of the presentation, Supply Chain Adaptations in Response to COVID-19 by Amanda Matts.

We are thrilled to announce the presentation of a groundbreaking academic paper at the upcoming SAM International Business Conference, a study that delves deep into the transformative shifts omnichannel retailers in the United States are making to their supply chains in the face of the unprecedented disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This timely research provides a comprehensive overview of how the retail landscape is evolving due to a significant shift in consumer behavior spurred by the global crisis and examines the implications these changes hold for supply chain decisions.

The paper meticulously reviews the adaptation strategies employed by retailers to navigate through the challenges presented by the pandemic. It sheds light on the emerging opportunities for retailers to foster closer integrations with their suppliers as a response to the crisis, thereby enhancing their supply chain resilience. Additionally, the research investigates the strategic shifts in risk management approaches within the supply chain, emphasizing the critical role of technology and inventory management in sustaining business operations amidst the surge in digital commerce and the ongoing global challenges, including raw material scarcities and production delays.

One of the most compelling aspects of this study is its methodological approach. By employing a database-driven methodology, the authors systematically review the current literature on supply chain processes, the retail sector, and the shifts in consumer behavior, offering a robust framework for understanding the complex dynamics at play. This approach not only underscores the adaptability and resilience of retailers but also highlights the innovative strategies being implemented to ensure business continuity and growth in a rapidly changing world.

The paper concludes with insightful findings that are common across the literature, providing valuable implications for future studies and continued analysis. These insights are poised to spark meaningful discussions at the SAM International Business Conference, offering attendees a rich understanding of the evolving retail and supply chain landscape. As we look forward to the presentation, we anticipate that this research will inspire further exploration and innovation in the field, driving forward-thinking strategies to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead in the post-pandemic era.

This presentation is not just a showcase of academic rigor but a beacon for businesses and scholars alike, highlighting the paths through which the retail sector can emerge stronger and more resilient from the trials posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Join us at the SAM International Business Conference to gain a deeper understanding of these critical developments and to engage in the dialogue on shaping the future of retail and supply chain management.

Join us online or in person at SAMIBC 2024 and see this great presentation and many more March 19 – March 23, 2024. For registration information visit www.samnational.org/conference.