What does "business continuity planning" refer to in supply chains?

Business continuity planning in supply chains focuses on developing strategies that ensure an organization can continue operating during and after a disruption caused by potential threats, such as natural disasters, cyberattacks, or supply chain interruptions. This process involves identifying risks, creating contingency plans, and ensuring that essential functions can continue or be quickly restored.

By prioritizing preparedness, businesses can minimize downtime, reduce losses, and enhance their resilience in the face of adversity. This often includes maintaining inventory levels, diversifying suppliers, and implementing robust communication systems to inform stakeholders during emergencies.

The other options do not align with the primary objective of business continuity planning. While developing new products, creating marketing strategies, and establishing partnerships are indeed vital functions in a supply chain, they do not specifically address the need to prepare for and recover from disruptions or threats to business operations.