Supply Chain Reaction

Welcome to our Supply Chain Reaction podcast series, where we explore the supply chain challenges facing businesses in today’s turbulent trade environment.

Hosted by our industry-leading lawyers, each episode offers practical guidance on managing supply chain risk and regulation, along with actionable strategies to help you remain resilient and compliant.

Whether you are in manufacturing, procurement or legal, listen to our series for expert insights into how you can navigate your supply chains more effectively in a rapidly changing global landscape.

Available Episodes

Expand All Collapse All
Episode 1: Manufacturing Perfect Contracts

In this opening episode of Supply Chain Reaction, Nicola Smith, Simon Jones, Victoria Callicott and Ollie Ward-Jones explore how to build strong, resilient supply chain contracts. The team discusses the importance of clear drafting, key clauses to manage risk and disputes, and how contracts can support regulatory compliance and financial stability.

Packed with practical guidance and real-world examples, this episode helps businesses avoid common pitfalls and strengthen their contractual foundations.

Listen to episode 1 here.

Episode 2: Navigating Daily Challenges in Supply Agreements

In this episode of Supply Chain Reaction, Nicola Smith, Simon Jones, Victoria Callicott and Ollie Ward-Jones delve into how businesses can effectively manage everyday challenges in supply agreements. From delivery delays and quality issues to tariff impacts, supplier refusals and early signs of financial distress, the team shares practical strategies for navigating disruptions. They also cover proactive contract management, contingency planning and how to stress-test suppliers to maintain resilience.

Packed with practical guidance, this episode helps manufacturers stay agile and compliant in a rapidly changing global landscape.

Listen to episode 2 here.

Episode 3: Navigating Regulatory Compliance Issues: A Case Study of a Defective Engine

In this episode of Supply Chain Reaction, Nicola Smith, Simon Jones, Victoria Callicott and Ollie Ward-Jones discuss how businesses can respond to regulatory issues, through the lens of a real-world scenario involving a defective engine. The team reviews immediate actions, legal obligations, stakeholder communications and corrective measures such as recalls and relabelling. They also cover potential civil claims, the importance of legal privilege and how indemnities and liability clauses can shape outcomes.

With practical advice on crisis management, financial risk and reputational protection, this episode helps businesses prepare for, and respond to, regulatory incidents.

Listen to episode 3 here.

Episode 4: Exiting Contracts and Handling Suppliers in Distress

In this final episode of Supply Chain Reaction, Nicola Smith, Simon Jones, Victoria Callicott and Ollie Ward-Jones consider strategies for exiting contracts and managing supplier insolvency. The team takes a closer look at termination rights, the legal risks of getting termination wrong and how to prepare for, and respond to, supplier financial distress. They share practical steps for risk assessment, supply chain diversification, contingency planning and retention of title.

With insights on red flags and legal protections, as well as real-world examples, this episode equips businesses to navigate high-stakes scenarios with confidence and resilience.

Listen to episode 4 here.