Market research shows growing tension between escalating consumer expectations and the ability of global supply chains to keep pace, according to study from Impinj, a provider of RAIN RFID and Internet of Things (IoT) technology.One of the top variables is seen in consumer concerns around tariffs and trade shifts, where 84% of supply chain leaders say changing foreign trade policies are affecting their planning, leading to sourcing adjustments (54%) and increased prices for customers (53%). However, consumer tolerance for these cost increases is limited, with more than half (56%) saying they would stop buying a product if tariff-related costs were passed onto them.Additional challenges for retailers, retail manufacturers, and suppliers feature: compliance with the European Union (EU)’s Digital Product Passport (DPP) regulations, counterfeit products, and fraudulent shipping. DPP rules require nearly all products sold in the EU to have a unique product identifier that provides comprehensive information about each product’s origin, materials, environmental impact, and disposal recommendations.Those results come from Impinj’s “Supply Chain Integrity Outlook 2026” research report, which was based on a survey of 1,000 US consumers and 750 US supply chain leaders. Other findings from the report include:Increased demand for more convenient pickup and delivery: More than half (56%) of supply chain leaders say they face increasing pressure to provide faster, more flexible delivery and pickup options, while 51% of consumers say they’re likely to stop buying from brands that don’t offer convenient choices.Viral commerce drives demand volatility: Social media and influencer trends drove 42% of purchases this…
