The rising cost of opaque supply chains

In 2026, brands are paying a steep price for a lack of transparency. Consumers, regulators, and trading partners are demanding more than claims; they want verifiable proof that products are authentic, ethically sourced, and compliant. Gaps in visibility can lead to regulatory fines, lost sales, and reputational damage.

Our 2026 Top 5 Trends report, based on insights from over 400 supply chain professionals, shows a clear pattern: companies without robust traceability are putting themselves at serious risk. But what’s the best way to tackle it?

Accuracy isn’t optional

Regulations around labeling, safety, and product information are tightening - and they vary widely across regions. For companies managing multiple suppliers and production facilities, these differences can create operational and compliance challenges. Connected networks offer a solution, linking suppliers, production facilities, and partners to enable seamless collaboration across the supply chain. By integrating product identification with labels, certifications, and ingredient information, these networks help ensure consistency, accuracy, and traceability at every stage.

Our survey highlights just how critical these systems have become: nearly nine out of ten respondents - 30% strongly agree and 58% agree - say that cloud-based labeling helps ensure accurate product tracking, traceability, and authenticity across their supply chains. When this type of platform is implemented within a connected network, it does more than maintain compliance; it supports collaboration, provides end-to-end visibility, and helps standardize product information across the supply chain.

Seeing the full picture

Traceability gives companies a clear view of how their supply chain operates and whether it meets ethical standards. Digital Product Passports, for example, allow companies to track products from raw materials through manufacturing, distribution, and final sale. This level of visibility helps verify sourcing practices, monitor ethical compliance, and respond quickly to disruptions.

The benefits of stronger traceability are clear. Improved compliance was reported by 43% of supply chain professionals, while 40% noted enhanced supply chain visibility, and 34% cited better audit readiness. Stronger brand trust followed closely, with 31% recognizing its impact, and anti-counterfeiting efforts are showing results, with 27% seeing measurable reductions. These capabilities are more than just operational necessities: Accenture’s research shows that companies with the most mature supply chains - those that integrate visibility, data, and collaboration across their networks - achieve up to 23% greater profitability than their peers, highlighting how traceability and connected ecosystems drive both efficiency and business performance.

Proactive risk management

Maintaining authenticity requires constant oversight across the supply chain. Cloud-based product identification platforms are a key component of connected networks that link suppliers, production sites, and partners - providing real-time verification, anomaly detection, and the ability to address issues before they escalate into operational or reputational problems. Survey data reinforces this, with 81% of professionals reporting that end-to-end visibility helps their companies manage risk, prevent counterfeiting, and maintain brand integrity.

By embedding verification and collaboration into daily operations, companies reduce errors, strengthen relationships with trading partners, and maintain control over every product they deliver. Within these connected ecosystems, transparency reinforces credibility across the supply chain and helps companies earn the trust of customers, regulators, and trading partners.

The bottom line

Consumers and partners increasingly expect verifiable information, not just claims. Smart product identification platforms give companies a reliable way to provide that proof, while connected networks ensure product data is consistent, traceable, and accessible at every stage. This approach helps organizations meet regulatory requirements, improve operational efficiency, and protect brand integrity across global supply chains.

Looking ahead, companies that prioritize authenticity and traceability are the ones most likely to avoid costly errors, respond quickly to disruptions, and maintain trust in a market that scrutinizes every step of the supply chain.

See how connected networks can safeguard your supply chain, ensure product authenticity, and maintain operational resilience. Explore our 2026 Top 5 Trends report and watch our expert-led webinars for actionable strategies in action.