From Complexity to Control: 2026 CPG Supply Chain Trends to Watch

The CPG logistics landscape is shifting fast. 2026 is poised to test even the most prepared supply chain teams. Here's what top CPG companies are focusing on to stay competitive, agile, and ahead of disruption. 

Complexity Is the New Constant 

After several years of nonstop disruption, 2025 pushed many CPG supply chains into reaction mode. But that’s starting to change. 

Looking ahead to 2026, smart supply chain teams are shifting focus. They’re simplifying operations, realigning priorities, and investing where it counts. Not by adding more tools or layers of control, but by choosing what drives true adaptability. 

Below are five trends reshaping the CPG logistics landscape—and how supply chain leaders are staying ahead. 

Trend 1: Complexity Is the Biggest Cost Driver

The more systems you add, the harder it becomes to operate. 

From fragmented platforms to overlapping partnerships, logistics teams are spending more time managing tools than improving performance. Every added layer brings hidden costs: disconnected workflows, manual steps, and longer delays when issues arise. 

Redwood POV: The next wave of supply chain improvement isn’t about adding more. It’s about unifying what you already have. Redwood helps CPG teams consolidate systems and orchestrate operations without starting from scratch. 

Trend 2: Visibility Gaps Are Holding Teams Back

Disconnected systems and manual workarounds make it harder to make smart, timely decisions. 

When data is delayed or siloed, supply chain teams are forced to rely on spreadsheets or outdated reports. Shadow processes start to fill the gaps, but they increase risk and reduce confidence in the bigger picture. 

Redwood POV: Better reporting starts with better visibility. Redwood helps connect the dots across systems so logistics leaders can make confident, real-time decisions based on the complete picture. 

Trend 3: Most Teams Aren’t Getting Full Value from Their TMS

Many supply chain teams are only using a fraction of what their transportation and logistics systems are capable of. 

Whether it’s limited integrations, unused features, or outdated configurations, these gaps lead to low adoption and lost ROI. That’s a missed opportunity, especially for teams under pressure to do more with less. 

Redwood POV: We help optimize TMS platforms, making them work harder—not your team. Redwood partners with logistics teams to improve usability, unlock functionality, and connect systems that were never designed to work together. 

Trend 4: Speed to Adapt Defines Competitive Advantage

CPG supply chains aren’t getting simpler. From shifting regulations to SKU volatility and new retailer mandates, the pressure to adapt quickly is only growing. 

The teams pulling ahead aren’t just reacting faster. They’re building operations that can pivot with precision, using better forecasting, tighter data loops, and smarter automation to stay in control. 

Redwood POV: The most successful CPG teams we support have a common trait: they don’t wait for problems to escalate. They use real-time signals to spot issues early and take action sooner. We help make that possible with tools and strategies that enable faster, more confident decisions. 

Trend 5: Supply Chain Talent Is Tapped Out

Lean teams are managing more volume, more systems, and more expectations than ever before. 

The right tools should reduce that load, not add to it. But when systems are clunky or disconnected, people end up doing extra work just to keep things moving. 

Redwood POV: We help logistics teams operate with less stress and more clarity. That includes support for both frontline users and the IT teams behind them. Redwood simplifies operations, accelerates implementation, and makes sure the system works for the people using it. 

Ready to Talk Strategy?

Planning for 2026 starts by identifying what’s working, what’s not, and what’s next. 

If these trends reflect what you’re seeing in your own supply chain, let’s take a closer look at your logistics strategy. Redwood can help simplify, support, and strengthen your operations.